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 'caregivers'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:00:11 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5057719&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhy-im-afraid-for-anyone-to-enter-the-healthcare-system-ever%2F2011.07.23 Alright, I admit that the title of this post is a little dramatic. But it really does seem that most people I know socially have had a bad experience with the healthcare system lately. Take for example my friend whose 3- year-old went to the hospital for a common pediatric procedure – the little girl was overdosed on a medicine, aspirated, got pneumonia, went into respiratory distress (noticed first by her mom) and remained in the pediatric ICU for several days. The hospital staff swept the overdose under the rug, and outright denied it happened when faced with direct questioning. As outrageous as that all is, my friend chose not to pursue action against the hospital and staff for their error and behavior. She just “let it go” because no permanent harm had occurred. Anoth... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5057719 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 01:18:24 +0100 5057719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952990&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F18%2Famericas-mental-health-budget-cuts-poor-training-and-stephanie-moulton%2F Anybody who’s been an administrator in a community mental health system in America in the past three decades knows the drill. During bust times, state governments actually come close to doing a good job with members of society who are at their most vulnerable. Services are — while never fully-funded — well-funded, and for the most part, there’s enough staff to cover the huge need in communities for mental health care for the poor. But when budgets tighten, the first place governors look to cut are social services. High on the list of social services to be cut are mental health services, because they are often people intensive. Nevermind that most of those people are poorly trained “aides” or others who often have little direct education or experience wit... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952990 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 15:11:39 +0100 4952990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4852936&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F23%2Fabandoned-minds-social-justice-civil-rights-and-mental-health-part-1%2F “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” — Edmund Burke “What conditions?” asked Rivera. “In my building,” responded Wilkins, “there are sixty retarded kids with only one attendant to take care of them.  Most are naked and they lie in their own sh*t.” This exchange was from a telephone call from Dr. Wilkins, who had been fired from Willowbrook State School in Staten Island, New York. He and a coworker were fired for their concern for the welfare of the inhabitants.  The person they were talking to was a young television reporter: Geraldo Rivera. On January 6th, 1972, Wilkins and Rivera met at a diner.  Wilkins still had the keys to many buildings, and the plan was set to bring in a camera crew to (illegally) film the... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4852936 Mon, 23 May 2011 18:34:41 +0100 4852936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841583&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F18%2Fmental-health-blog-party-why-do-i-blog-about-mental-health%2F As part of May Is Mental Health Awareness Month, many of us here at PsychCentral are participating in a Mental Health Blog Party hosted by the American Psychological Association. Today, May 18, we are all blogging about mental health awareness. Here’s my contribution. Why do I blog about mental health? I want to explain to people that depression and other mood disorders aren’t yuppie diseases for folks with the time and resources to ruminate and obsess, that they can be life-threatening illnesses. That’s right. Depression kills. It killed my godmother — my mom’s younger sister — at the tender age of 43. It kills approximately 800,000 people across the globe every year. Suicide takes more lives than traffic accidents, lung disease, and AIDs, and it is the second leading cause o... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841583 Wed, 18 May 2011 14:01:37 +0100 4841583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775432&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F02%2Fmental-health-needs-of-older-americans%2F As the baby boomers age here in the U.S., they are going to swell the ranks of seniors. And senior care — especially mental health care — is one of the most ignored in America. We act as though seniors don’t matter much, and few health care and mental health care professionals go into specializations, such as geriatric psychology, that can help senior citizens. Perhaps that will change, with more attention and focus provided on this group of people. Because as we age, we often face many of the same difficulties as we did earlier in life. Except these difficulties are often amplified, because of the loss of social support — our friends — and isolation — most often from our own family. The New York Times profiles Marc E. Agronin, M.D., a geriatric psychiat... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775432 Mon, 02 May 2011 13:50:19 +0100 4775432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4658415&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F30%2Fintroducing-partners-in-wellness%2F I’m pleased to introduce our newest blog, Partners in Wellness by Kate Thieda. This is a blog that is meant to provide information and support to relationship partners and spouses who are in a marriage with someone who has a mental illness, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Coping with someone who has a serious mental illness can often times be trying, difficult, and stressful. This blog will deal with topics to help caregivers and partners learn to better communicate and improve their relationships with someone who has a mental health concern. Partners in Wellness will focus on helping people who are in a relationship with a person who has a mental health issue. While this may include what people often refer to as “caregivers,” it is focused on people who are par... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4658415 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 10:55:29 +0100 4658415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642676&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F27%2F8-survival-tips-for-the-spouse-of-a-terminally-ill-person%2F The other day, I had the honor of interviewing Owen Stanley Surman, M.D., a practicing hospital psychiatrist known internationally for his work on psychiatric and ethical aspects of solid organ transplantation. Following the death of his wife, Dr. Surman devoted six years to writer a memoir, The Wrong Side of an Illness: A Doctor’s Love Story, which includes a deeply personal and unique view of events both tragic and transcendent. He now lives in Boston with his new wife. Question: What words of wisdom would you give the spouse of a person struggling with chronic illness or terminally ill? Dr. Surman: Chronic illness and terminal illness have a pervasive impact on how we live our lives and in our sense of identity. Loss of a loved one affects the part of ourselves that has led us to ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642676 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 15:02:30 +0100 4642676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501583&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ftheres-still-time-for-a-flu-shot%2F2011.02.21 It’s not too late to protect yourself and your family from the flu. Influenza is about to enter its peak season in the United States. Now is the time to be vigilant in protecting against and preventing the spread of flu. Washing your hands, staying home from work or school, and covering your cough can be incredible steps. But the most effective way to prevent influenza is to get vaccinated. If you haven’t had a flu shot, get one this week. Your child can be immunized if over six months of age, and remember that many children under age nine will need a second dose (booster shot). Find out how to determine if your child needs a second dose. 1o Things To Know About Influenza 1. Influenza peaks in February and March in the United States. Look at the CDC data that reflects ongoing in... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501583 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 18:00:38 +0100 4501583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287412&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Freal-meaning-at-christmas%2F2010.12.24 Every day I go to work and spend time with suffering people. They come to me for help and for comfort. They open up to me with problems that they would not tell anyone else. They put trust in me — even if I am not able to fix their problems. I serve as a source of healing, but I also am a source of hope. Christmas is a moving season for many of the same reasons. No, I am not talking about the giving of gifts or the time spent with family. I am not talking about traditions, church services, or singing carols. I am not even talking about what many see as thereal meaning of Christmas: Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, and baby Jesus. The Christmas story most of us see in pictures or read about in story books is a far cry from the Biblical account. The story we see and hear is... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287412 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 22:00:14 +0100 4287412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4238012&cid=t_103791_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FtJ3OAq5ZZ_0%2F It is not easy to take care of someone suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. Quality of life for both patients and caregivers usually deteriorate as the disease progresses. This issue also has an economic side: the care provided by family members is valued at nearly $144 billion. What would happen if caregivers could not carry on anymore? As this article from the Huffington post reminds us, there is no pill to help families stay together longer, and have happier lives. However there are a growing number of non-pharmacologic interventions that could achieve this. Improving quality of life for individuals with dementia and their families is a fundamental treatment goal, but consistently receives far less attention and funding than drug research. There are a growing number of such non-pharmac... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4238012 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:55:14 +0100 4238012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4225469&cid=t_103791_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-and-our-loved-ones%2F People who live with multiple sclerosis live alone. We may have others who live with us, but they don’t really live in the same “place” as us… nor we with them. The best way I can describe it — to myself, really — is that people living with MS and our partners live in different houses on the opposite side of the same street. Neither can fully understand what the other’s life is like. We have a very similar perspective on the world, but not exactly (and sometimes not even close to) the same. Last weekend, Caryn and I rented the Rob Reiner film Flipped, and this all became so clear! It’s a coming-of-age film about two children who meet when a boy moves in across the street from a young girl who is the same age. The entire film is a back-and-forth telling of their life sto... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4225469 Fri, 03 Dec 2010 14:46:08 +0100 4225469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4179486&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fstream-of-consciousness-blogging-random.html Tomorrow is set-up for festival of trees. We will have some helpful info from Local Chapter of Alzheimer's Association, thanks to Esther over at the Duluth office. We will also have Help info from the National Family Caregivers Association (0NFCA) thanks to Suzanne over there in the great state of Maryland. Yes I love the Crab Cakes over at Obrycki's. and the old water taxis to Fell's Point. Of course the state is not just a suburb of DC and the inner harbor, in fact the whole state is beautiful. I sure miss the crab especially since Brian Williams told us on the NBC news last night how filthy and carcinogenic the crab and all seafood is from Thailand and Viet Nam is, it makes me realize I could eat a lot more healthy in Baltimore than I could in Duluth. - probably more... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimers blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4179486 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 18:55:00 +0100 4179486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172060&cid=t_103791_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=4152193&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fduluth-junior-league-festival-of-trees.html I will be at the Junior League Annual Festival of Trees in Duluth, MN  on Saturday and Sunday November 20 and 21, all day, both days, at the DECC (Duluth Entertianment and Convention Center.) There will be a booth, with the publisher Niagara Press. There are hundreds of booths with vendors, selling everything from books to crafts and anything else might need for Christmas shopping ideas.I will be signing and selling copies of "When Can I Go Home?"  on both days. A Portion of the proceeds will be from the book sales and will be donated to the National Family Caregivers Association. which is a very relevant organization. Check it out. There will also be a drawing for a painting from the Kollodge Art Gallery in Duluth. Ken and Kathy are really cook people and own... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimers blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4152193 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 20:53:00 +0100 4152193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018265&cid=t_103791_118_f&fid=39279&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ffoxepractice%2F%7E3%2Fd4q43P3O7_g%2Fhcsm-scoop-week38 At Fox ePractice we’re committed to providing you with everything you need to understand, position yourself, and to take advantage of the fundamental shift that is taking place in marketing a medical practice. To that end, each week this page will highlight some of the best content that we have come across on the web in order to further your knowledge of the opportunities before you. We will showcase both Healthcare Social Media experts who speak out on the subject, as well as those sites that demonstrate what we feel are healthy examples of how to put the concept of Web 2.0 to work for their healthcare businesses. So read on … and “get the scoop”: Caregivers’ Use of Online Health Information The results of this e-health study speak to the significant support that ca... Fox ePractice blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018265 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 22:12:59 +0100 4018265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746737&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ffor-quality-patient-care-teamwork-in-medicine-is-critical%2F2010.07.12 From KevinMD’s medical blog, guest post by Toni Brayer, M.D., shares a story where a team approach in medicine is critical for quality patient care. Dr. Brayer writes: “Medicine is a team sport and it is only when the team is humming and everyone is working together that patients can have good outcomes. Hospital errors, medication errors, poor communication between doctors and nurses are prevented by adherence to protocols that everyone follows. It takes laser focus, measuring outcomes and a great deal of hard work to ensure everyone is pulling together in a hospital. The fact that these bedside nurses take the time to work on error reduction and patient safety is really amazing. Have you seen how hard nurses work? My hat is off to these dedicated caregivers.” Dr. Brayer is exactly ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746737 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 23:00:31 +0100 3746737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740596&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-reason-i-stayed-a-doctor%2F2010.07.09 This week I traveled to a small town outside Chicago to help my mother with her move from an assisted living facility to Alabama so she can live with my sister. I suspect many people, thanks to current economic times, have realized that the savings that were supposed to be there are not and change must happen. Such is the case with my mother. It’s sure to be an emotional time, one which both of us had hoped to avoid. For her, she will be moving from the region of her childhood, her college, her marriage, her first home, her dream home, her caldron of first-grade student graduates and her dearest friends. For me, I will miss our spontaneous visits, morning coffee conversations, trips to the local restaurant in the town of my childhood, her gentle smile, and her helpful advice. But th... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740596 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3740596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733088&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-win-win-referral%2F2010.07.07 One of my patients is an elderly woman who is completely bedbound due to osteoarthritis. Since she’s considered “too old,” she isn’t considered a surgical candidate for a knee replacement. Her son, George, is her caregiver. George had been referred to our practice through word-of-mouth from a geriatric care consultant. When he called me for an initial visit, his mother had a spot on her left forearm that was growing rapidly. The nodule was red and tender. Both of them wanted a doctor to look at and remove it, and at the house if possible. (more…) (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733088 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:00:55 +0100 3733088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3603596&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ffrom-winnie-the-pooh-edward-bear-and-primary-care%2F2010.05.26 Here is Edward Bear, coming downstairs now, bump, bump, bump, on the back of his head, behind Christopher Robin. It is, as far as he knows, the only way of coming downstairs, but sometimes he feels that there really is another way, if only he could stop bumping for a moment and think of it.  – From A.A. Milne’s “Winnie the Pooh and the House at Pooh Corner.” Internists, I expect, will identify with Edward Bear. Richard Baron’s study in the NEJM on the amount of work he and his colleagues do outside of an office visit — the “bump, bump, bump” of a busy internal medicine (IM) practice — has resonated with many of his colleagues. Jay Larson, who often posts comments on this blog, did a similar analysis for his general IM practice in Monta... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3603596 Wed, 26 May 2010 14:00:00 +0100 3603596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3595906&cid=t_103791_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F4Qym_uF4kqw%2F / A recovery book Are you one of the growing number of people who serves as a caregiver for an aging or chronically ill friend or family member? If so, you probably struggle to meet both their special needs and still find time and resources for yourself. But now there is reason to take heart. The authors of this down-to-earth, encouraging book can help you make the most of the experience without losing yourself in the process. Using the Twelve Steps as a guide, the authors conduct readers through the pitfalls of caregiving–the emotional snarls and strains, daily struggles, competing needs, and questions about confronting pain–providing hope and tangible suggestions on how to stay strong and sane while providing healthy support and love. “Self-Care for Caregivers offers ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3595906 Sun, 23 May 2010 22:03:00 +0100 3595906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3556096&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fa-helpful-guide-for-discharge-planning%2F2010.05.11 Medicare has a handy guide to help patients and their caregivers take control of the discharge planning process. It might be good for hospitals to have a stack of these at the ready and a plan to make sure every patient gets one: Planning for your discharge: A checklist for patients and caregivers preparing to leave a hospital, nursing home, or other health care setting *This blog post was originally published at ACP Hospitalist* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3556096 Tue, 11 May 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3556096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546846&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwondering-if-mom-is-safe-finethanx-calls-and-checks-for-you%2F2010.05.09 FineThanx is a new automated phone system that automatically calls your sick or elderly family members at home to check on how they’re doing. The system can check in with loved ones once or twice a day, and if no one answers or the person is unwell, the system calls a member of his or her ”care circle.” If everything is fine, the FineThanx system will send you a report by email, so you can continue working or finish those 18 holes of golf, then check in for reassurance on your iPhone or personal computer afterwards. Listen to a sample call here. *This blog post was originally published at Medgadget* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546846 Sun, 09 May 2010 11:50:20 +0100 3546846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524110&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwondering-if-mom-is-safe-finethanx-calls-and-checks-for-you%2F2010.05.02 FineThanx is a new automated phone system that automatically calls your sick or elderly family members at home to check on how they’re doing. The system can check in with loved ones once or twice a day, and if no one answers or the person is unwell, the system calls a member of his or her ”care circle.” If everything is fine, the FineThanx system will send you a report by email, so you can continue working or finish those 18 holes of golf, then check in for reassurance on your iPhone or personal computer afterwards. Listen to a sample call here. *This blog post was originally published at Medgadget* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524110 Sun, 02 May 2010 14:00:20 +0100 3524110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433111&cid=t_103791_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fsmall-but-mighty-mycareconnect-com.html It’s about time for another edition of our Small But Mighty series, profiling the many individual organizations out there powered by people passionate about helping PWDs. Today, we take a look at one such company addressing the complicated and stressful task of raising a child with diabetes… Most kids are gone from the house a [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433111 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:31 +0100 3433111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342703&cid=t_103791_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F08%2F5-tips-if-you-love-someone-with-mental-illness%2F The National Institutes of Mental Health reports that one in every four adults – approximately 57.7 million Americans – experience a mental health disorder in a given year. One in four, and that’s just the U.S.! And for every person in the world diagnosed with a mental disorder there is at least one, probably more, trying to help, cope and support that person any way they know how. Mental illness is often a family issue. Parents, siblings, spouses and extended family provide housing, care and support, emotional and financial, sometimes to the point of becoming proverbial case managers. It’s hard enough when the chronic illness is something everyone recognizes, like diabetes. It’s a whole other thing when the disease is a mental illness which is ripe for misunderstandi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342703 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:46:43 +0100 3342703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302370&cid=t_103791_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=3208315&cid=t_103791_87_f&fid=34865&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecancerblog.com%2F2010%2F01%2F26%2Fcope-with-hair-loss%2F Filed under: Cancer CaregiversCancer patients often have a hard time coping with hair loss. Remember, not all chemotherapy medicines cause hair loss, and doctors can tell you what to expect. Although hair loss doesn't occur right away -- and hair grows back after treatment -- losing one's hair can be an emotional experience, especially because hair loss occurs on all parts of the body -- facial hair, arm and leg hair, underarm hair and pubic hair. During chemotherapy, hair and scalp need special care. Use a mild shampoo and a soft hair brush. Try to air-dry your hair. Wear a short hair cut, which will make hair look thicker and fuller. Sleep on a satin pillowcase. Do not use rollers, dye hair or get a perm. Use a sunscreen, sunblock, hat, scarf or wig to protect the scalp f... The Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208315 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3208315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3119044&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMw37qvLC7ng%2Fcancer-alzheimers-less-likely-to-strike.html If there truly is an inverse association, it gives us one more way of finding out what's going wrong in both cancer and Alzheimer's, and that could lead us to new ways to treat either condition.-- Catherine M. Roe Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's disease Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room It may seem a small consolation from either point of view, but a new study has affirmed that patients with cancer are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, and patients with Alzheimer's disease are less likely to get cancer. "There were still people who had both Alzheimer's and cancer, but it was significantly less common than we would expect," says lead author Catherine M. Roe, Ph.D., research instructor in neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "If there t... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3119044 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:39:29 +0100 3119044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089528&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FouLqSmO_ynA%2Fmillion-email-march-for-alzheimers_14.html New Legislation Would Improve Treatment Services For Alzheimer’s Patients And Expand Training And Support Services For Their Families And Caregivers....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) Here is copy of the email I am sending to my elected officials requesting that they support this legislation designed to help Alzheimer's Caregivers. (you can personalize the email and make it your own). Dear Senator Or Congressperson XXXXX. A recent Harris Interactive poll indicated that 100 million Americans h... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089528 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:26:36 +0100 3089528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3045001&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcGSkkQOn6wk%2Fcaregivers-of-spouses-with-dementia.html Adams suggested that caregivers might benefit from support groups that “normalize” the emotions that surface while watching the dementia of their loved ones worsen. They can also be taught caregiving and decision making skills and given “permission” to increase pleasurable activities and engage in self-care..... I had to put my life on hold when I decided to take reponsibilty for my mother. After six years I still find great emotional reward in caring for her. However, I meet other caregivers that are clearly suffering from the experience. 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. Today, I met someone who asked me if I would be interested in meeting for a drink.... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3045001 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:40:17 +0100 3045001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3012605&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FSS9ibBFo9d4%2Fquote-of-day-caregivers.html There are only four kinds of people in the world - those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.-- Rosalynn Carter Are Alzheimer's Caregivers the Forgotten? Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3012605 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:07:12 +0100 3012605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879842&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpart-two-favorite-caregiving-recipes.html Fresh mixed broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, parsley, spinach, tomatoes (or salt-free canned, stewed tomatoes)and other vegetables of your choice can be simmered in an herb broth to make a flavorful stew. Seniors who don't usually like vegetables, and who may have dentures, will find this recipe to have a lot of flavor and be easy to chew and eat. To add protein to the stew there are a variety of choices: chicken, turkey, black beans, soybeans, or white beans(any type of beans will do). You can use salt-free vegetable broth or boullion, or add chicken or beef broth if you desire. For a tomato based broth for the stew you can use salt-free tomato paste, canned tomatoes or soup. Your favorite variety of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, sage, dill and so on can be added. The aroma filling the ki... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879842 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 21:46:00 +0100 2879842 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2872083&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpart-1-favorites-recipes-for-caregiving.html For vegetables with lots of flavor fill a covered baking dish with fresh carrots, cauliflower, squash, broccoli, and tomatoes and bake it in the overn at 350 degrees for 20 minutes (more if the carrots are large ones.) Spray it with zero calorie buttery spray, then sprinkle a variety of herbs and spices (no salt) on it to make the flavor have some zip. Sprinkle with Paprika if desired. The medley of flavors from baked tomato to sweet baked carrots keeps it interesting.The softened vegetables are easy for people who wear dentures to chew and baking the vegetables brings out a lot of flavor. Use this as a main dish, with a protein dish of meat or meatless protein "on the side." Baked chicken or fish go well with it. For meatless meals there are vegetarian burgers with soy protein that can be... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2872083 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:06:00 +0100 2872083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890783&cid=t_103791_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FqsGYQ0uSV5g%2F In the midst of much healthcare reform talk, not enough attention seems focused on ensuring healthcare systems’ preparedness to deal with cognitive health issues -with Alzheimer’s Disease as the most dramatic example- which are predicted to grow given aging population trends. Today is World Alzheimer’s Day, and the USA Today comments on a new report that makes stark predictions: Global Alzheimer’s cases expected to rise sharply (USA Today) - “The 2009 World Alzheimer’s Report, released today, estimates 35 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The figure is a 10% increase over 2005 numbers.” - “The number of people affected by Alzheimer’s is growing at a rapid rate, and the increasing per... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890783 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:48:39 +0100 2890783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814561&cid=t_103791_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FqsGYQ0uSV5g%2F In the midst of much healthcare reform talk, not enough attention seems focused on ensuring healthcare systems' preparedness to deal with cognitive health issues -with Alzheimer's Disease as the most dramatic example- which are predicted to grow given aging population trends. Today is World Alzheimer's Day, and the USA Today comments on a new report that makes stark predictions: Global Alzheimer's cases expected to rise sharply (USA Today) - "The 2009 World Alzheimer's Report, released today, estimates 35 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The figure is a 10% increase over 2005 numbers." - "The number of people affected by Alzheimer's is growing at a rapid rate, and the increasing personal costs will have significant impact on t... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814561 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:48:39 +0100 2814561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2789011&cid=t_103791_105_f&fid=38964&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrwes.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fstrong-arming-caregivers.html "Hey Sally, us guys wanna help you wid your kid, see? Maybe gets you a few more dollas, ya know. All ya gots to do is sign dis here form and we'll take care of da rest, capeesh?""Uh, I'm not sure I really want unions representing me as I care for my son at home.""Whatdyamean? Everybody knows dat da governor here in Illinois is on board. Heck he allowed collective bargaining by, ya know, 'individual providers of home-based support services.' So dat means you, Sally. We're nothing but angels, really.""Are you saying I can go on strike and not wipe my son's rear end?""Hey, not so harsh, Sally! You know we'd never suggest such a thing! Look, for a mere $2000 a year, we'll represent your interests down state. It'll be nothin' but roses, seriously. I mean, look at 'em. No one's got answers on nu... Dr. Wes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2789011 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 11:10:00 +0100 2789011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2406058&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fd_YDGFb91eg%2Fcaregivers-alzheimer.html I know many of us have been waiting for this segment of the documentary.Caregivers is a collection of five portraits, each of which highlights the sacrifices and successes of people experiencing their loved one's gradual descent into dementia.Caregivers airs tonight at 7 PM eastern time. Part Two of Momentum in Science airs at 8 PM.If you can't watch it on HBO, you can catch Caregivers on streaming video.Tonight's questions:What did you learn from the presentation?What are the rewards of caregiving?The comments box is located down the page, under (scroll down the page).Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via EmailBob DeMarco is a Caregiver. In addition to being an experienced writer he taught at the University of Georgia , was an Associate Director and Limited Partner at Bear Stear... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2406058 Tue, 12 May 2009 17:42:16 +0100 2406058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376760&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FJMvjJJfdgoU%2Fcomplimentary-copy-of-memory-loss-tapes.html Subscribers to the Alzheimer's Reading Room can now obtain a free, complimentary, copy of the Memory Loss Tapes from HBO by following the instructions below. If you are not subscribed to the Alzheimer's Reading Room -- we request that you do that also.There are three steps in the process to obtain the DVD:Click this link -- The Alzheimer's Project ScreeningsWhen you get to the HBO website look for the link labeled Request a Screening Kit.Select the screenings you want to receive (see below), and fill out the form.After the show airs, or after you view the documentary, please come back and let us know your reaction. I know HBO and the documentary makers would appreciate you taking the time to post your comments, reactions, and feelings.You are also encouraged to alert your local hospice,... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376760 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:42:20 +0100 2376760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349588&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMYjVrmxBdbI%2Falzheimers-project-hbo.html Dates and Time.The Memory Loss Tapes -- Sunday, May 10 at 9 PMGrandpa, Do You Know Who I Am? -- Monday, May 11 at 7:30 PMMomentum in Science -- Monday, May 11 at 8 PM Caregivers -- Tuesday, May 12 at 7 PMMomentum in Science, Part 2 --Tuesday, May 12 at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. EST – Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via EmailThe Memory Loss Tapes takes an intimate look at seven individuals living with Alzheimer’s, seeking to introduce a new understanding by sharing the devastating experience of memory loss from the point of view of the person with the disease.Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am? With Maria Shriver is a is geared toward children and young teens coping with a grandparent’s illness, and presents vignettes that can help a child understand and deal with a relative’s gradual... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349588 Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:38:52 +0100 2349588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349589&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F4h3zWfvUZnQ%2Falzheimers-project-caregivers.html By now most of you have heard about the HBO Documentary--The Alzheimer's Project.I wanted to remind you that part four is entitled "Caregivers". Caregivers airs for the first time on Tuesday, May 12 at 7 PM.“Caregivers” is a collection of five family portraits that illustrate caring for the different stages of Alzheimer’s disease.I was actually interviewed as a candidate for the show. One interesting aspect of the interview was that they found me via this blog.I am really looking forward to watching all four parts. I'll be most interested to see how they handle the segment focused on Caregivers.I am really looking forward to a show that really shows what it is like to live Alzheimer's from the Front Row. Will this be the one?HBO usually does a great job. So, my expectations are very ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349589 Sun, 19 Apr 2009 14:05:50 +0100 2349589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2324244&cid=t_103791_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E5%2FxrzQRoPwNpw%2FaJY67mjAPl8%26hl%3Dnl%26fs%3D1 Living Issues The video below shows a project for supported living for adults with autism in the city of Schiedam, The Netherlands. Everyone has an apartment of their own with two rooms, a simple kitchen, a shower/toilet and a hall with a cupboard. One of the apartments is used as living room, here people can come and meet others if they like to. Meals are served here for all inhabitants too. The caregivers have their own apartment which is used as an office. The video shows (Deel 1=Part 1 the entrance, Part 2= the caregivers office/meeting centre which can be used by residents as well, Part 3=the meeting place for residents and finally Part 4, the park area behind the building)The entrance doors of this complex is automatically closed between 6 o clock in the evening and 7 in the morning.... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2324244 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:50:00 +0100 2324244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2222690&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FmKU2EbKp8qU%2F When we learn first hand what it’s like to experience Alzheimer’s, we caregivers and family members can be more understanding and helpful.  I often tried to realize where Mother and Auntie were coming from, what was motivating their behavior and thought processes.  When I put myself into their world (at least the best I could), I found it easier to cope.  Hopefully this made an increasingly difficult life easier for them. Richard Taylor, Ph.D., who has been diagnosed with dememtia, probably of the Alzheimer’s type, maintains a web site complete with videos, provides a monthly newsletter, and has written a book,  Alzheimer’s from the Inside Out.  His purpose now is writing and speaking to inform, help and encourage others. I wish there was something like Rich... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2222690 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:00:23 +0100 2222690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200701&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F3IYYh9X9ss0%2F Mixing medications, forgetting what to take when, or having insufficient knowledge about why one is taking a specific prescription becomes a challenge with Alzheimer’s patients and sometimes their caregivers.  If you have questions about prescription use, perhaps you’ll find these guidelines helpful: Guidelines for Managing Medications and Prescriptions at AgingCare.com Do you have suggestions on helping the Alzheimer’s patient in your family manage meds?  What works for you and them? (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's medications, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's patients, caregivers, Caregiving, managing medications, Mary Emma Allen, medication guidelines, medications, prescription guidelines, prescriptionsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200701 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 20:19:37 +0100 2200701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2190737&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FDd8lom89rAw%2F In addition to caring for an Alzheimer’s family member, some caregivers may operate a business at home which enables them to be readily available.  Or they would like to develop something that enables them to earn money from home.  My guest post at Susan Gunelius’ Women on Business blog gives you 10 Tips On Finding Time for Your Home Business. Whether you’re balancing a home business with caregiving or considering doing this, I hope you find these tips helpful. (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, business tips, developing a home business, guest-post, home business, home business tips, Mary Emma Allen, Susan Gunelius, Women on BusinessShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2190737 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 03:45:52 +0100 2190737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188102&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FSZE7TP3CNG8%2F When one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, how does he/she learn to live with it?  How do family members learn to cope?  My aunt was diagnosed before I became involved in her care.  When I would see her, she’d mention it, but didn’t seem to let it get her down.  However, I didn’t see her that often at that stage in her life.  Also, not so much was known about Alzheimer’s in the 1980s, so she may not have realized what was ahead for her. I don’t think my mom ever realized she had developed Alzheimer’s.  She was more concerned about finding a cure for her sister.  Mother’s only comments occasionally, when we were chatting, “Slow down, Emma.  My brain doesn’t work so fast.” How Does One Cope? How does one learn to co... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188102 Sat, 14 Feb 2009 05:00:51 +0100 2188102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2173051&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FtWi97MZDKpg%2F Do you scurry around making school lunches, getting snacks ready, or checking the hot lunch menu to see if it’s something the youngsters will like?  If you’re working outside the home, as well as caring for children and an Alzheimer’s patient, do you wonder what to take for yourself? I’ve written about this topic at my Mary Emma’s Country Kitchen blog, under School Lunch Variations, covering lunches from my mom’s day to the present when my grandchildren take lunch and snacks to school.  There certainly have been changes over the years.  Perhaps your Alzheimer’s patient will relate and have memories similar to those of my mom’s or mine in a one-room schoolhouse. You’ll also find a recipe for Mayonnaise Cake, something we made often d... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2173051 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:15:10 +0100 2173051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2147639&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQZvQc1ygnEw%2F Edie Dykeman, at Elder Care Cafe, mentions Alzheimer’s Notes and comments: Many times, once someone’s caregiving time is finished, they choose to move on. Mary Emma has returned to help the rest of us along. Some people have asked me, “Why?” when so many caregivers and Alzheimer’s family members choose move on. I want to reiterate:  First…it’s okay to move on.  Second…I’m not stuck in the past. As Edie has glimpsed, I chose, through my writing and speaking, to remain involved and help those who are still going through caregiving.  When Mother and Auntie developed Alzheimer’s (Auntie first in the 1980s and then Mother while caring for her sister in the early 1990s), there weren’t many resources for the caregiver. ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2147639 Sat, 31 Jan 2009 04:13:11 +0100 2147639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2141437&cid=t_103791_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=2134804&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FLqs0ezMlJTs%2F Have you ever come close to “losing your cool,” as you cared for an Alzheimer’s spouse or parent?  Have you had to calm your frustrations when your patient became irritating? When you’re tired (getting adequate sleep as a full time caregiver becomes challenging), juggling many roles (especially if you’re a mom as well as cargiver) and taking care of a home, possibly even working outside, frustrations come to the foreground more easily.  So leaning to keep your cook becomes important so that you don’t fall into the abuse trap. A British study reveals that Many Alzheimer’s Caregivers Admit to Abusive Behavior.  This generally was verbal abuse rather than the physical type.  Yelling, swearing, threatening and screaming insults were some reported t... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2134804 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 01:26:45 +0100 2134804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115930&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F0KfwbUYilio%2F I’ve shared occasionally arts and crafts ideas from the Arts Bloggers.  We are a group who put together some of our favorite posts each week to share with others.  Often Alzheimer’s patients like to be involved in crafts.  Also, caregivers find them relaxing and inspirational. The Arts Bloggers are putting together their creative ideas for 2009.  See what you’d like to try.  Drawer Pull & Pants Hanger Project Turn these items into a unique photo display via Craftynest. Gravestone Rubbings for Fabric Art Mary Emma, at Quilting and Patchwork, discovered instructions for turning gravestone rubbings into fabric art and family history. How to Make Soap Petals Soap petals are simply silk flower and leaf petals dipped in melted soap. They are single use and look pretty... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115930 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 05:00:10 +0100 2115930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2097988&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FBuzwApGw7FE%2F After I wrote last week’s Thursday Thirteen  about 13 Birds Creating Memories in my mother’s life, Krista at Alzheimer’s Team, left me a comment, “My dad remembers he had horses but he can’t go in to detail about it. Maybe if we talked with him more about it he might remember more.” Yes, often if you talk with your Alzheimer’s family member about places, persons, things and events, they will remember more. These may be bits and pieces of memories that you’ll enjoy jotting down or recording for family history, too.  Sometimes they will be lengthy stories.  You also may find that the Alzheimer’s patient thinks he/she is back in that memory world. Also, pull out some pictures, either actual family photos or simply pictures in magazines.... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2097988 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:23:21 +0100 2097988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2090080&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FzOlMleRPRAw%2F Often caregivers feel isolated and think they’re alone in facing the challenges of caring for a family member, especially one with Alzheimer’s or some form of dementia.  Even if there is a caregivers’ support group in their community, it’s not always easy to get away to attend meetings. Online communities have become a boon to caregivers, where they can meet with others online who are having similar challenges. Forgetful Not Forgotten is a community that’s evolving out of the film of the same name, by Chris Wynn about his father’s experience.  In this community you’ll be able to share your experiences and gain encouragement from others. The movie, Forgetful Not Forgotten, premieres January 11 on TVO.  You also can see excerpts of the film at t... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2090080 Fri, 09 Jan 2009 05:00:03 +0100 2090080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2078804&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2I1QnA-nXa4%2F As caregivers, we often have a way of making ourselves feel guilty, regretful and inadequate.  Or we let others cause us to think we’re not doing the best job we can  (when they shirk the caregiver tasks themselves). We’re usually thrown into caregiving without training or often advance warning.  Later we might wish we had done some things differently.  But we weren’t to know at the time.  Looking back, I wish I’d known more about Alzheimer’s when Mother and Auntie developed it.  But I never imagined I’d be caring for them.  Also realize, someone told me, that as an Alzheimer’s caregiver, you always have a second chance…often within five minutes.  Even though the patient may be upset with you, he/she usually forgets it a short time la... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2078804 Sun, 04 Jan 2009 21:51:55 +0100 2078804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074448&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FHbnsPp0tLZg%2F Kaye from SandwichINK left a comment at my Happy New Year’s post about setting goals that I thought would interest my caregiver readers. Great goals. It’s so easy to get into such a routine and not stop to think through and be proactive at taking these kind of steps. On top of that, many feel guilty for doing something for themselves. But we are re-energized and recharged and able to bless those we love more when we take these steps. I especially like Kaye’s insight about our being able “to bless those we love more” when we take care of ourselves.  We’re more patient, more loving, more able to laugh and enjoy, more thoughtful, more caring…when we’ve gained rest and inspiration ourselves. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregivers, Care... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074448 Sat, 03 Jan 2009 03:21:44 +0100 2074448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074449&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FhxVMplTFklw%2F Happy New Year May 2009 be a wonderful year for you. It’s cold here in New Hampshire (3 degrees F.) and windy as I write this. But we’re looking forward to a grand 2009. Have you set any goals in your Alzheimer’s caregiving life?  Find someone to relieve you ocasionally with your duties. Discover something humorous each day to bring laughter into your Alzheimer’s related life…and that of the person you’re caring for. Find a support group in your area or online, if you don’t have one. Attend Alzheimer’s related seminars if they’re offered nearby. Find time just for yourself to relax and relieve the stress. (PartyCheap.com image) Tags: 2009, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregivers, Caregiving, goals, New Year'sShare This (Source: Al... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074449 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 19:05:58 +0100 2074449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074452&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FpkAGtXPQ9ys%2F Longevity seems to be a reward of caregiving, according to recent research published in  the current issue of Psychological Science.  So when you’re tired and frustrated and wonder how you can keep going when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, remember, “I should have a longer life as a result of all of this.” This may seem like an impossibility after sleepless nights, dealing with a cranky patient, searching for them when they escape on you, and encountering other trying situations.  However, the joys, often small ones each day, give a sense of accomplishment and often laughter. Caregiving May Lengthen Life Caregiving May Lengthen Life from Alzheimer’s Daily News Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregivers, Caregiving, longevityShare This (Sourc... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074452 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 02:04:47 +0100 2074452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2047028&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FOn0RkoV3d9Q%2F  Caregiving Business Caregivers sometimes take care of Alzheimer’s patients other than family, do housekeeping for them, provide shopping services for them or their families.  Whenever they receive payment, they’re considered as conducting a business, unless they’re working as an employee for an agency that does this type of work.  Often they think because it’s a “little” business, they don’t have to worry about taxes.  However, under most circumstances, the IRS generally looks at it differently, and caregivers still do have to pay taxes and Social Security and develop a system of keeping track of income and expenses. Jean Murray, at Home Biz Notes, has a great post with some initial tax information.  Check out 5 Myths About Work At Home Busin... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2047028 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 02:11:34 +0100 2047028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021626&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FsmcOnmlhbuU%2F As we try to learn more about Alzheimer’s, especially if we’re caring for a family member or a resident in a nursing home, we’re appreciative of books and online resources that can help us understand this memory (actually lack of) condition better.  When Mother and Auntie became ill with Alzheimer’s, I had mainly books to turn to.  The Internet wasn’t well advanced with information and support groups for us. So, in order to assist my readers in a better understanding, I try to find resources for them. Psych Central, which offers information about numerous illnesses, provides many articles about Alzheimer’s for the family caregiver and professional.  You’ll find Alzheimer’s explained, caregiver’s guides, overview of the disease, and ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021626 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 21:30:38 +0100 2021626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2011254&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FbxLXoE5JQ-0%2F Tea Parties My grandchildren and I enjoyed tea parties with my mom when she resided in the nursing home.  They became a ritual, even after Mother no longer really knew what it was all about.  She smiled and chattered and seemed to enjoy the children.  From this evolved memories the youngsters and I shall treasure. Why not plan tea parties for your family members in the nursing home?  Victorian tea parties can be such fun. Read about one my friend planned for her mother at Seasoned Citizen Activities.  You may enjoy organizing one for a family member.  Perhaps you can find someone who does this on a regular basis…hosting tea parties. (Image from Art of Appreciation Gourmet Gift Baskets) Related Posts: Tea Parties for Alzheimer’s Patients Tea Time at Alzheimer’s No... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2011254 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:47:31 +0100 2011254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980963&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FOGOtsYcQvb0%2F Alzheimer’s Decisions Moving an Alzheimer’s family member to a nursing home presents a heartwrenching challenge for many people.  Some have made promises that they would never do this.  Others feel it’s their responsibility to care for their parent, spouse or sibling at home. However, there comes a time, I realized, when I couldn’t care for my mother, and she couldn’t care for her sister any longer   Mother was developing Alzheimer’s when I had to make other arrangements for the sister with Alzheimer’s who lived with her. Mother finally needed more care than I could give her when I moved her to the nursing home full time.  I had to realize I wasn’t superwoman and there was a point when both of us would become unable to function. I had t... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980963 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 04:24:24 +0100 1980963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1975309&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F1N2M6ruDo0c%2F Alzheimer’s Triumphs As I recall my experiences with Mother and Auntie and read some of the comments I receive here at Alzheimer’s Notes, I realize there are small triumphs, or joys, if we’ll but recognize them…and remember them. Write them down in a notebook.  You can read them when you have frustrating days and add to them as you go along.  I find, even several years after Mother and Auntie’s deaths, that remembering these incidents can bring a smile and fond thoughts about these ladies. Amanda says:  I’ve worked with demntia patients in a nursing home, and it’s very sad to see what there going through.  But I found it very rewarding also since they are still wonderful people even though they’re lost in time. I like Amanda’s expr... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1975309 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:26:12 +0100 1975309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964177&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F28IaenLp1Pg%2F Giveaway Cardmaking, whether from fabric, mixed media or solely paper, gains attention as we approach the holidays.  These may be greeting cards, thank you notes, invitations, and place cards for parties. This also is a project Alzheimer’s patients often can participate in.  Even if they can’t manipulate the cardmaking materials, they often can choose colors and pictures.  They may simply like being included in the family activity, even though they cannot verbalize why.   Mother often sat beside me when I wrote, sewed, did craft activities.  She chatted (yes, often asking the same question over and over), played with objects and materials I placed in front of me and enjoyed the feeling she was “helping” me. For those who enjoy giveaways as well as making card... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964177 Sun, 16 Nov 2008 05:00:15 +0100 1964177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1960914&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FmryKvcJZ3AM%2F Quilting & Alzheimer’s After I wrote the post, Sharing Quilting with Your Alzheimer’s Patient and Family, Betty told about her experiences with her mom and quilting.  She told how she includes her mom in her activities. My Mom’s got dementia and she enjoys watching me select the colors for my quilts. She also likes to pick up the fallen scraps off the floor and carry them around. I let her keep them, unless they’re needed for a specific project. Last time I took her to a quiltshow, she wandered off and was lost for awhile. Now I go to the shows alone, but take lots of pictures for us to share together. I related an incident with my mom.  She enjoyed quilts in her Alzheimer’s years although she couldn’t do any quilting. My daughter made Mothe... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1960914 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 05:00:10 +0100 1960914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1945355&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fye-7kmQb7_I%2F Thanksgiving Ideas As Thanksgiving approaches, your family is thinking of celebrations and special recipes.  The children (and your Alzheimer’s patient) may be looking for books to enjoy. Check out my list of books with fun, facts, activities and recipes at One Book Two Book.  Fun & Fact Books for Thanksgiving & Harvest Season Favorite Thanksgiving Books Do you have any to suggest?  Favorite books, activities and recipes? Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, books, caregivers, family gatherings, Mary Emma Allen, recipes, ThanksgivingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1945355 Sat, 08 Nov 2008 22:48:09 +0100 1945355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1924586&cid=t_103791_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=1918083&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FLxGhormMPWo%2F Green Living Are you practicing “green” living in your home?  Perhaps it’s difficult to do so in an Alzheimer’s home.  Perhaps you’re not too enthusiastic about “going green” and feel it takes too much effort.  Maybe you don’t believe it helps. You don’t have to be a fanatic, simply practice some frugal ways that also may help the environment and your home. At our home, we: Separate the cans and bottles to take to the town recycling center.  (They sort of require this.) Used cold water rinsing for the clothes.  (This should help cut down on the electric bill if you heat your water with electricity.) Kept the paper trash separate from the kitchen trash so we can put it into the paper collection at the recycling center. (This also i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918083 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 04:32:36 +0100 1918083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918084&cid=t_103791_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=1914767&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FSjdvdr4R5ag%2F Alzheimer’s Life Products Life challenges as one grows older can be frustrating.  It’s even more so for someone with Alzheimer’s.  How can we make life easier for them? Check out new and innovative products that will help them cope with everyday life.  There are numerous ones with new ones introduced frequently.  Here are five suggestions: Look for phones with large numbers on the keypad. Use calculators with large numbers, if the patient can still manipulate these. There now are telephones with space for at least three photos.  The patient simply presses the photo to dial. Find watches with large digital read-outs. Install water faucets that turn off automatically. These are only a few of the products/gadgets that make life easier for the Alzheimer’s pat... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1914767 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 03:27:27 +0100 1914767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1907726&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FXl3hNTLsPuI%2F Bloggy Giveaway Stay tuned for a Bloggy Giveaway here at Alzheimer’s Notes, from October 27 - 31.  Since I had so many readers indicate an interest in a previous giveaway book, I’m offering another copy of  A Glass Full of Tears by June Lund Shiplett here at Alzheimer’s Notes. June journals her story about caring for her husband, Charlie. Come back and enter on October 27! (Amazon image) Tags: A Glass Full of Tears, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Bloggy Giveaway, caregivers book, contest, dementia, giveaway, health, June Lund Shiplett, Mary Emma Allen, memory-loss, men's health, mental health, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1907726 Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:46:45 +0100 1907726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1907727&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQZyG81EobK0%2F Obsessive Caregiving Caregiving can become almost overwhelming, but caregivers also can make it more overwhelming than it needs to be.  Yes, a patient needs a certain amount of care and love, and with Alzheimer’s a lot of care and love.  But you and they can be overwhelmed with too much. Obsessive caregivers might:  Use caregiving to avoid facing other situations in their lives and work.  Become caught up in caregiving because they can’t say, “No.” Become too caring because it feeds their ego and results in many compliments from others. Be consumed by guilt (created by the patient and other family members) so become obsessive in their care for fear of criticism. Simply don’t realize they’re over caring. I began to think more about this topic after... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1907727 Sat, 25 Oct 2008 21:05:57 +0100 1907727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1902231&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fcaregiving-and-spiritual-issues.html The comfort of knowing a caring God is surrounding us with love and light, and that earthly challenges can be seen from a perspective of eternal life, can provide strength to keep going when the most difficult times of our lives occur. No matter what your religious denomination, philosophy, or personal spiritual belief system, knowing there is a power of love, a spirit that cares and an energy that is like a power source lifts us up when we need it.We'll never understand fully that which is beyond our human ability to grasp, but knowing we are filled and surrounded with the spirit of love and that we can see things from an eternal perspective changes everything. Today, in our world that is often materialistic, shallow, and selfish, there is still much love and caring, much light and life. ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1902231 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 22:30:00 +0100 1902231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1892068&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FBY79uV-qJ7g%2F LAUGHTER In reviewing my post at Thursday Thirteen, 13 Words that Explain Alzheimer’s Caregiving, “laughter” caught my eye. I realized I had come to the point where I could remember the funny things, the joyful things, the rewards rather than dwelling on the sadness and frustration of caring for Mother during her Alzheimer’s years. Laughter at unusual antics became a way to survive the situation wrought with frustration.  Concerned at first that others would think I was laughing at Mother, not with her, I was admonished, in a way, by her. “We don’t laugh enough,” Mother remarked when my husband and I were chuckling at something she had done.  I knew then that Mother was pleased we were laughing rather than scolding her. What situuations have you ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1892068 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 03:37:41 +0100 1892068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1883420&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FtRl6i98f0jw%2F AlzheimersNotes.com THURSDAY THIRTEEN Numerous words come to mind when you’re caring for an Alzheimer’s family member or when you think back upon those days of caregiving. Numbness upon learning the diagnosis Frustration with Mother that she can’t understand Tiredness when I never get a full night’s sleep Laughter at unusual antics Annoyance with the patient, the situation, the world Bewilderment - Why am I the caregiver?  Why did this fall to me? Confusion - Who has the Alzheimer’s?  Mother or me? Joy at the pleasure I give Mother with a smile, a hug, saying, “I love you.” Awareness of the world from a different perspective Overwhelmed with all I have to do Thankful that my husband is so supportive Pleasure in seeing my grandchildren enjoy visi... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1883420 Fri, 17 Oct 2008 03:50:46 +0100 1883420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1883683&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fcaregivers-video-for-relaxation-and.html When Autumn paints the leaves and they are reflected in quiet rivers the beauty is doubly relaxing and uplifting, especially when paired with special music. Caregivers can take a therapy break and unwind while they watch this video. Enjoy and best wishes. Kristi (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=1883683 Fri, 17 Oct 2008 01:08:00 +0100 1883683 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873146&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4sCXTPmaeJk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com QuiltingAndPatchwork.com Join the Arts Bloggers for fall creations and other projects.  These may be activities your Alzheimer’s family member may enjoy as well.  If he/she can’t participate, watching you often provides pleasure, too.  My mom enjoyed anything that had to do with the colorful autumn leaves. Celebrate fall colors Tangled Thread is inspired by fall colors to create a new fall flower wall hanging. Change Your Writing Tools Encouragement to use differernt writing tools in your journal Layers Upon Layers Come see some of the work that has arrived at the home of the “Ties That Bind” collaborative art project, raising money for ovarian cancer research.  Make It Pink Challenge at CraftStylish Upload your pink craft project to CraftS... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873146 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:00:32 +0100 1873146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1870932&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fjy7DvkUA6S4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com In my Alzheimer’s Word of the Week post last week, I wrote about nursing homes and mentioned some people didn’t like to mention the word.  Alicia, blogger at Mental Health Notes, wrote a very enlightening comment, which I think gives insight into the varying reactions to this term. The term “nursing home” always strikes different emotions from different people, doesn’t it? I think it’s due to a variety of reasons (the poor reputations some nursing homes have, the idea that putting your loved ones in a nursing home is neglectful and selfish, the sad fact that some people actually do “dump” their loved ones in nursing homes and fail to visit them, etc.). It’s sad that, because of these things, those of us who’... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1870932 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:33:05 +0100 1870932 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1870933&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FxqLtYRiYg1s%2F AlzheimersNotes.com In a previous post, How Do You Feel About Yourself & Your Alzheimer’s Caregiving, I discussed that research shows caregivers do better when they feel good about themselves.  However, sometimes this takes effort when you’re dealing with the frustrations of caregiving and often the differing opinions of family members. Nevertheless….take time for yourself. Have your hair styled.  Do something entirely different that makes you feel grand. Do your nails.  Choose something outrageous! Go to a movie when someone else will stay with your Alzheimer’s patient for a couple of hours. Lunch out with a friend.  Select something different from the menu. Take a walk and notice something new along your route. Find a support group. Buy yourself some flo... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1870933 Sat, 11 Oct 2008 13:09:48 +0100 1870933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1868599&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FUeGcr3_-6mo%2F AlzheimersNotes.com As I consider the activities used with Alzheimer’s patients of my mother’s era, as well as movies shown and music played, I realize these may change as a younger generation, essentially Baby Boomers, reach the Alzheimer’s stage.  They won’t recognize some of the movies and music, will enjoy some of the same activities, but many different ones, too. I recall visiting Mother and finding the residents entranced by World War II era and earlier movie stories.  They sang songs that Mother sang to us as children and from her earlier years.  Languages May Differ Also, languages spoken in nursing homes may vary, too.  There will be more residents from other countries, who have learned English here, but still recognize their native tongues which are di... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1868599 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:00:21 +0100 1868599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1865564&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fm-NIb1ypGTU%2F AlzheimersNotes.com WORD OF THE WEEK Nursing Home - a place that provides care and a residence for people (frequently older ones) who cannot care for themselves or who are extremely ill. Many people don’t like to say the term, admit to the term, especially if an older person in their family is living there.  However, when I could no longer care for Auntie and Mother, in their advanced Alzheimer’s, I was thankful there was some place where they received excellent care.   I was fortunate that the homes where they lived, Auntie in NYS and Mother in NH, provided very good services and care.  I always felt the staff was concerned and cared for the wellbeing of my mom and aunt. (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregivers, Caregiving, Ma... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1865564 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 05:00:36 +0100 1865564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1862919&cid=t_103791_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=1851087&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fyth8Ur1j-50%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Yesterday I explained Sundowning in Word of the Week. I began thinking about Mother’s sundowning experiences. This wasn’t a big problem with her, but some crisis situations did occur in late afternoon. I found her sundowning activities usually were connected to something she customarily did in late afternoon in her earlier life.  When I delve deeper into other patients’ sundowning, I’ve realized this often is connected with an afternoon event of former days. *Feeding chickens - When I was growing up on the dairy farm, we also raised chickens and sold eggs.  We fed the chickens mid-morning and again in later afternoon.  After we discovered Mother regularly feeding invisible chickens in her back yard during her Alzheimer’s days, I fin... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1851087 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 05:00:50 +0100 1851087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1844874&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F5L-lbKaz9K4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com If you or your family members entertain thoughts of writing, either for pure fun, to write stories for school lessons, or to record your thoughts about Alzheimer’s caretaking, you might enjoy the series I’ve begun at One Book Two Book, Mary Emma’s Writing Tips.  Although the weekly tips, prompts and activities are slated for young writers, they will work for anyone. These will appear at One Book Two Book each Sunday. I also will suggest books and web sites where you can find help and inspiration, too. I’ve often written about my journey through Alzheimer’s with my mom and aunt in hopes of giving others encouragement.  Simply writing down your thoughts in a private journal often helps you cope with the frustrations of this time in your l... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1844874 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:00:44 +0100 1844874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1837332&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FLumbiSwLoks%2F AlzheimersNotes.com As autumn weather sparks appetites, you might like to try some new recipes from the Food Bloggers.  We even have a post about wedding cakes! Pumpkin Cookies A delicious treat for a harvest or Halloween party. Black and White Wedding Cakes These cakes put a beautiful spin on a classic wedding theme.  Busy Family Meals It’s not too late to grill! Try an onion marinade for lamb before the north winds blow! Creole Jambalaya Celebrate the holidays New Orleans style with this traditional Creole recipe  Foods that Boost Your Metabolism You can rev up your metabolism, burn more calories and even lower high cholesterol by including certain foods in your diet. Read more here. Moroccan Beef with Bulgur Try this dish for an exotic and hearty fall entree  Traveling, Mee... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1837332 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 05:00:14 +0100 1837332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1815453&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FLgdy_k7DZQk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com In recognition of   National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, the Health & Wellness Channel has initiated a project.  Various bloggers are writing posts revolving around the Twelve Steps of Recovery designated by Alcoholics Anonymous.  The bloggers have selected one or more steps to write about in relation to their own blog topic.  Then Liz Lewis at Healthbolt will compile them. Although I didn’t participate by writing about any of the steps, I considered how this topic might relate to Alzheimer’s patients.  Do they become addicted because they are prescribed medications, depressants, stress relievers to enable them to cope? When my mother was very agitated, even hostile, at the first nursing home where she stayed, her doctor prescri... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1815453 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 05:00:55 +0100 1815453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1809861&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FfG5dQXAlmcs%2F AlzheimersNotes.com It’s time for the All About Alzheimer’s Carnival again.  Deadline is Saturday, September 20.  Use this submission form. Send me articles about Alzheimer’s, dementia, and caregiving…your joys, your memories, your frustrations, and how you’ve solved them.  This can become a sharing and encouraging place. I’m looking forward to hearing from you. ( If you miss the deadline, send your article to me at my e-mail address at the right.) (Amazon image: click for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Share This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1809861 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 01:53:38 +0100 1809861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1802819&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FgOAckZ0-GD4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com One of the most frustrating aspects of caring for an Alzheimer’s family member or one with some form of dementia is their lack of need for sleep at night and their wandering when you want to sleep.  I found I cat napped and never slept soundly for the months Mother lived with us. One of my Alzheimer’s Notes readers shares with us and asks for a solution: I have a friend whose mother also has mild dementia and when she takes her turn at caring for her mother, she is up all night long. We have had many conversations about what she and her sisters can do because they get no rest at all when they care for their mother. It is very frustrating for them and they have not yet come up with an answer. Possibilities: Share the caregiving and try to alternate night... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1802819 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 01:13:37 +0100 1802819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1798587&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F09%2Flandmark-transitions-guest-post-by.html We read a lot about Work/Life Balance in articles these days. For some, it means a seamless transition from a work mindset to a life mindset, depending on what's appropriate at the time.One way I accomplish this aspect of balance is by selecting a landmark on my commute home from work. On my way home, there is a bridge I cross over an interstate. This part of my commute is about 4 minutes from my doorstep. While on the bridge, I mentally close the door to work and begin thinking of my wife, my daughter in college, and my teenage son. I pick out something about each one of them (something they like, or fear, or are interested in) and dwell on that for the remainder of my commute (about 4 minutes or so). I try to EMPTY my mind of work-related stuff and FILL my mind with family.Now, before I ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1798587 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 21:26:00 +0100 1798587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1791689&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQRoUUSAfXUA%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Your Alzheimer’s patient has been restless all day…and into the night.  You’re tired and feel overwhelmed.  You wonder why you’re the one to whom the care of your family member has fallen. I think it was the tiredness that got to me most because I never slept a whole night through while Mother lived with us.  A friend had warned me, when I found I needed to move Mother to our home, that the sleeplessness would be one of the most difficult aspects. I realized it wasn’t the same as caring for a baby who woke during the night.  The baby might cry but wouldn’t get out of the crib and wander.  Mother might wander and attempt to leave the house.  She might turn on a stove, so we took all the knobs off every night.  She often raided ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1791689 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 03:41:43 +0100 1791689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1788793&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FCaYJJsOsr2E%2F AlzheimersNotes.com It’s fun to see how excited the youngsters become when it’s Book Fair Time at school.  Yesterday I was substitute teaching and took children to the area in the library where the books were displayed. I didn’t see any books relating to Alzheimer’s or forgetfulness (like The Graduation of Jake Moon, for instance) but I didn’t have time (I was supervising children) to look through all the books.  However, often the picture books your youngsters bring home will entertain your Alzheimer’s family member. Books that remind them of childhood Books about familiar places Books about daily activities Books with colorful pictures Books with simple pictures (Amazon image; click here for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Share This (Source: Alz... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1788793 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:49:22 +0100 1788793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1788794&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FCKZCt8nnWpc%2F AlzheimersNotes.com We all need something to uplift us when we’re discouraged in life and with the frustrations of caring for an Alzheimer’s patient.  One of the places I’ve found for “feel good” or thought provoking moments is Nancy Kirk’s The Monday Minute.  You have the choice of listening to it or reading it.  Nancy is a quilter who specializes in quilt and fabric dating as well as quilt restoration.  However, her inspiration and philosophy will uplift anyone.  I subscribe to her e-mail newsletter, so each Monday receive her tidbit of inspiration… often when I’m struggling to keep inspired.  This week she mentions Pretty Good Observations and the idea of jotting them down in a notebook. This is something I’d been doing, along ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1788794 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 05:00:50 +0100 1788794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1779369&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FsCRuY_MCY04%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Recently I held giveaways on three of my blogs.  In case, I didn’t post the winners for all of them, I’ll do so now; Home Biz Notes - Dan Smith was the winner of Harry Potter, the Story of a Global Business Phenomenon by Susan Gunelius. Quilting and Patchwork - Cindi  received a copy of Heartwarmers of the Spirit, edited by Azriela Jaffe.  I had a story in this, “My Ray of Sunshine on Dancing Tiptoe,” about my granddaughter who inspired me when I was in a body cast with a broken back. ( Giveaway details here.) Alzheimer’s Notes - Kristen was the winner of Glass Full of Tears by June Lund Shiplett. I shall be running giveaways on all three blogs again this month, September.  Susan Gunelius has another book, Kick-ass Copywriting in 10 Ea... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1779369 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 03:48:46 +0100 1779369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1775614&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FfK2RazzomKE%2F AlzheimersNotes.com We have another round of inspiration for caregivers and Alzheimer’s patients from the crafty Arts Bloggers.  Try these ideas on a crisp autumn day and enjoy. First Day of Spring (or Autumn) Create a visual journal entry about spring or your favourite season. Hannah’s Toadstool Doorstops Get instructions for cute doorstops using gravel-filled plastic food containers. Layers Upon Layers Artist Profile  Pallas Vititoe is a mixed media fabric artist that you’ll want to meet!  Quilters’ Lunch Box Memories Back-to-school time brings lunch box memories. Do quilters make quilts and fabric art with lunch box designs? Here are some suggestions. “Costume” Earrings Do you have any outfits that you just can’t find the right earrings for... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1775614 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 01:02:22 +0100 1775614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1770652&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FV9qzHq-IXww%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Creating memory books for the Alzheimer’s patient in your family is a one way to assist their recall, as well as giving you both something to talk about with them.  Also, when they’re in a nursing home, the memory book helps the staff members in working with the patient.  This is something familiar that often jogs the patient’s memory. When Mother lived in a nursing home, a staff member suggested I put together a simple album with photos of people in Mother’s life.  For some reason, I included photos of Mother’s parents, her siblings and the home where she grew up.  At the stage where Mother was, she related more to them than to my dad, sister, brothers, grandchildren and me.  So this is something to remember when putting together the... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1770652 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 12:12:02 +0100 1770652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1760020&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQ2ZtF_5mA7g%2F QuiltingAndPatchwork.com With the beginning of September and the youngsters in our household  back in school, our thoughts turn to autumn.  Often there’s a nip in the air at night which reminds us fall is “around the corner.” The Arts Bloggers share their weekly inspiration which I thought I’d share with you.  My mom used to like to sit and watch me when I worked at crafts or my writing.  Sometimes she’d chat and reminisce.  Other times she simply sat contentedly…at least for a short time. Crocheted baby sweater and cap Caron Yarns commissioned Noreen to design an adorable baby sweater and cap. Here’s the patttern for it.  Congratulations, Noreen! Photo Talk at Layers Upon Layers Give your photos a graphic quality that will make them pop! M... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1760020 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:58:47 +0100 1760020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1750307&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fs1LH2fBj1t4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Although it’s sad to see Liz leave Alzheimer’s Notes as my co-blogger, I can understand her need to prioritize her life and decided where she needs to spend her time.  I’ve enjoyed having Liz blogging with me and found she added a dimension and interest to this blog. As we experience September, autumn, back-to-school, and cooler weather (in the Northern Hemisphere), I’m also thinking about the directions for Alzheimer’s Notes.  If you have suggestions about what you’d like to see here, do let me know in the comments.  If you’d like to write a guest post, e-mail me and we can discuss a topic. Do you have questions you’d like answered?  Experiences you’d like to share?  Or simply general thoughts about Alzheimer&#... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1750307 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 03:30:58 +0100 1750307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1739313&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FlhqxT4c0Nv8%2F AlzheimersNotes.com As youngsters get ready to return to school (and some schools already have started), there may be apprehension.  Grace at  Kids Health Notes has some tips and resources for parents and children that may help make this day easier and even enjoyable.  Do you have any suggestions or helpful resources for going back to school that work in your home?  Do you have any extra juggling because you have an Alzheimer’s family member in your home? (Amazon image; click here for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's family, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, alzheimers-caregivers, back-to-school, caregiver's health, health, Kids Health Notes, Mary Emma Allen, mental health, school, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1739313 Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:01:51 +0100 1739313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1730748&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FVJ_l3JZqDac%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Tea time is a sharing time so I’ll be sharing my thoughts and those of readers who contribute through their comments.  We’re sitting down to a “virtual” tea party and finding encouragement from one another in the Alzheimer’s caregiver journey. Dixie left this message, and I think many of you can relate: I am a nurse at an Alzheimer’s Care facility. I see the daily struggles and heartache that families go through. I have always thought that Alzheimer’s is one of the diseases that affects the whole family-perhaps more so than any other, on so many levels.   It is true that Alzheimer’s affects family members differently and on many levels.  Each one struggles with this illness in their own way.  It’s also comfort... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1730748 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 03:07:22 +0100 1730748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1720455&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FGhBpA1abDvE%2F AlzheimersNotes.com While we’re on the topic of Harry Potter (see the post about Susan Gunelius and her book on the Harry Potter global phenomenon), why not take a look at a related book by J.R. Rowling?  If you and anyone in your caregiver’s family are Harry Potter fans, you’re probably intrigued by any reference to a new book. The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.R. Rowling, is a book of fairy tales written to supplement the Harry Potter series.  It will be published in two new editions, the Standard and Collector’s, on December 4, 2008.   (However, it’s available for pre-order now at the above links.) Collector’s Edition (Amazon images; click on them for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, fairy tales, Harry Pot... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1720455 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 05:00:34 +0100 1720455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1720456&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FMB_uh3kya10%2F Theme Day at the b5 media Health & Wellness channel centers around the topic of Summer Fun. Hosted by Lib at Healthbolt, the round-up offers some last minute, end -of-summer suggestions.  Check out what our bloggers have to say: At Healthbolt Lib and Liz believe you should be able to laugh a little about your health, and thus, would like to introduce you to the Laryngospasms. Enjoy. While it’s often difficult for Alzheimer’s caregivers to plan for summer fun, Mary Emma Allen has some ideas at Alzheimer’s Notes. At Mental Health Notes, Alicia tells us how to find free mood boosters to manage depression and shake things up in the bedroom with Sunshine Can Help Your Brain Grow Big And Strong. Kristina at Autism Vox goes on vacation by the ocean for fun in the sun and surf, and so... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1720456 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 18:41:31 +0100 1720456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1711799&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FrFzxqTRrzxw%2F Discussion with him proved unsuccessful and somehow he found the extra set of keys.  So family members disabled the car and kept delaying “getting it fixed.”  He finally lost interest in driving and seemed content to let others drive him. My neighbor’s aunt didn’t pass her sight test, and her doctor informed her that new glasses wouldn’t help enough to enable her to drive. She accepted this although she was frustrated and upset. However, it often is very difficult.  They even may pass a driving test and receive a license renewal, when you know they’re not safe on the road. Check out several  resources: The Alzheimer’s Association - Driving with Alzheimer’s The Hartford - Alzheimer’s, Dementia & Driving The Mayo Clinic - ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1711799 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:00:10 +0100 1711799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1711800&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FgsAKEKyl0_8%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Are you and your children, perhaps even your Alzheimer’s patient in a limited way, Harry Potter fans?  Susan Gunelius, author of Harry Potter, The Story of a Global Business Phenomenon, will visit Home Biz Notes, on Tuesday, August 19, the day her book is launched in the United States. You won’t want to miss this upcoming interview with Susan, also a b5 blogger at Brand Curve.  We learn how and why she wrote the story concerning the phenomenal marketing strategy that made Harry Potter a brand name and fantastic success.  We shall be featuring a giveaway of the book later in the day of August 19.  (Susan’s book also is available for pre-order at the above link.) So…..Keep Tuned! (Amazon image; click on book for details) Also See: Susan Gune... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1711800 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:00:07 +0100 1711800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709352&cid=t_103791_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_103791_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=1709354&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F-kf7IJHgPug%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Communication with Alzheimer’s patients takes many forms and can become rather difficult until we learn to speak “their language.”  I’ve written about this in various posts and thought you might find it helpful if I posted a round-up of them. Recognizing Pain in Alzheimer’s Patients How Do We Know When Alzheimer’s Patients Don’t Feel Well Alzheimer’s Changes the Way We Communicate Huggy Dolls for Alzheimer’s Patients Do Children and Alzheimer’s Patients Communicate Using Magazines and Picture Books with Alzheimer’s Patients Writing Newsletters to Inform Family Members Communicating with Alzheimer’s Patients (Amazon image; click on book for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: , Alzheimer's comm... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1709354 Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:00:47 +0100 1709354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709356&cid=t_103791_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=1704817&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FKbJVdhBTYvo%2F AlzheimersNotes.com When Alzheimer’s patients can’t communicate, it often becomes very difficult to tell when they’re in pain, when they don’t understand, or when they’re being obstinate.  Are there any clues or signs we should look for? Marijke Durning, of Help My Hurt, has some suggestions: You need to be observant and pick up on body and nonverbal cues; some are obvious, others may not be. Check out her post for suggestions: If someone can’t talk - how do they tell you they have pain? (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's and pain, Alzheimer's Notes, alzheimers-care, alzheimers-caregivers, communicating pain, health, Help My Hurt, Marijke Durning, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, men's health, pain, women's healthShare This (Source: Alz... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1704817 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:00:25 +0100 1704817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696327&cid=t_103791_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_103791_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=1693755&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2pFlWW5S_vw%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  With the Olympics located in China, panda bears come to mind.  There seems to be a fascination with these black and white bears with the black patches around  their eyes.  They’re native to southwestern and central western China.  Because of their distinctive markings, they’ve been a favorite with artists and photographers, as well as writers. These animals become the focus of story books and find their way into art.  Children enjoy reading about them.  Often you’ll find that pictures and picture books entertain Alzheimer’s patients.  Looking at them may initiate conversations and mind activity.   See some suggested books below to entertain youngsters and Alzheimer’s patients alike: Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See? Zen... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1693755 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 08:00:06 +0100 1693755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1692458&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F08%2Fcaregivers-bandwidth-guest-post-by.html I was talking with a friend the other day. He was describing the difficulty in explaining computers to his mother. She has a dial up connection to the internet (very slow). But her idea is to buy a faster computer. My friend is trying to explain why that won't work.Why won't a faster computer increase the speed of a dial up connection to the internet? Bandwidth. Bandwidth is like a roadway. The bandwidth on a dial up connection is like a narrow country road with the occasional one-lane bridge. In comparison, "high speed internet" (like cable, DSL, T1) is more like a 10-lane freeway. Now imagine thousands of cars trying to get to their destination. Imagine how much faster the traffic would flow on the freeway compared to the country road. That's bandwidth - the lines of connection from your... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1692458 Sat, 09 Aug 2008 00:23:00 +0100 1692458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1692244&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FdafVmcwweXE%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Periodically I receive questions from readers.  I find that readers with experience in different aspects of Alzheimer’s research and caregiving may have the answers. Here is a question from Kathy.  It’s an interesting one: I heard that you should not wear white when dealing with Alzheimer’s patients as they have a tough time distinguishing your outline and may perceive a visitor at first glance as only a head without a body. Is this true? If anyone has an answer for Kathy, do leave a comment! (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's Questions, Alzheimers, caregiver's health, caregivers, Caregiving, health, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, men's health, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1692244 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:02:46 +0100 1692244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1686370&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fnb3SpdPI4Mo%2F AlzheimersNotes.com THURSDAY THIRTEEN “Alzheimer’s patients bringing joy!” you exclaim.  “No way.  That’s a horrible illness for patient and family.’ However, my family and I discovered that caring for Mother and Auntie, although frustrating and time consuming, did bring us joy and laughter.  We hope we contributed pleasure to their Alzheimer’s world, too. Let me share the ways: We all learned to laugh at life and the situation to lighten our load.  “We don’t laugh enough, “ Mother once remarked when we chuckled over some incident brought by Alzheimer’s. Caring for others brings us closer in a different way, I discovered. We learned to appreciate a tea party at the nursing home with three generations. When we stopped... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1686370 Thu, 07 Aug 2008 05:00:27 +0100 1686370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1686371&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FvvEJC7ZlHaA%2F AlzheimersNotes.com If you and your family are following the Olympics and would like some related activities and information, here’s a list of posts that appear on my blogs so far.  My co-bloggers and I will be sharing more in the coming week. Even your Alzheimer’s patient may enjoy watching some of these events even if they don’t fully comprehend.  I imagine many nursing homes will feature the Olympics and even have some special activities.  They did this around special occasions when my mom lived in a nursing home. Also check out the b5media Olympics blog, Light the Torch, by Sandy Mitchell and Jeanne Dupuis for the latest on this big event. Mary Emma’s Olympics Blog Features OneBookTwoBook - Mary Emma Allen & Marcie Pickelsimer (This is Olympics Week at On... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1686371 Wed, 06 Aug 2008 18:41:19 +0100 1686371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1683134&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FgYdKTCh-9TM%2F AlzheimersNotes.com When I mentioned previously my idea of starting a Tea Time at Alzheimer’s Notes, where I’d chat with visitors, through their comments or e-mails, I realized this was a tradition typical of my family and one we continued with Mother in the nursing home. Sitting down to a cup of tea (or coffee for my aunts) runs through my memories of visiting my grandmother at her farm.  Every afternoon at 3:00, we stopped what we were doing, took a break and had a chat over tea and snacks.  Mother was ready to offer visitors a cup of tea when they stopped by our farm home, too. Tea Time During Alzheimer’s Years When I began helping Mother during her beginning Alzheimer’s years, first on the ajenda when I arrived from my home 275 miles away, was sitting down ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1683134 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:59:53 +0100 1683134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1679487&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FrFHga8a5bPk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I’m very appreciative of everyone who stops by Alzheimer’s Notes for the Glass Full of Tears Bloggy Giveaway (you have through Aug. 5 to enter the random drawing) and to check out other posts.  You also have been sharing your individual situations, almost as though you’re chatting with me over a cup of tea.  I’m going to start “Tea Time at Alzheimer’s Notes” and feature comments, as well as my thoughts, that I think others would enjoy and might relate to.  Let’s sit down around my kitchen table and chat, find solace and perhaps some solutions, too…not necessarily to Alzheimer’s, but how we can cope or have coped with the situation we find ourselves in. (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1679487 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:17:50 +0100 1679487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1677266&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FUoFrBgEC5HM%2F AlzheimersNotes.com If you’re a fan of the summer Olympics in Beijing and plan on following some of the events, you’ll find Char Polanosky’s post, 30 US Olympians in their Teens of great interest.  Char also includes a number of videos of the young men and women. Perhaps your Alzheimer’s patient, as well as you and your family will be fascinated by the events that unfold.  What’s your favorite event in the summer Olympics? (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Beijing, Beijing Olympics, caregivers, health, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, memory-loss, Olympics, teens in the Olympics, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1677266 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 03:21:43 +0100 1677266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1677267&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FpHTts5PZIl0%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Try something different to keep your youngster busy while you care for Grandma or Grandpa.  (Perhaps even the grandparents will enjoy watching.)  In other words…take some time for family fun. In keeping with the theme, Winter in July, at another of my blogs, One Book Two Book , you’ll find a link to instructions for making snowballs.  Then have a snowball toss or “fight.”  (Even though it’s now August, pretend these are snow and will cool you down!  End the session with a snow cone.) No, we didn’t have a freaky snow storm (although back in 1816 there were records of snow in New Hampshire during the “freezing year.”).  Char, at Camp Weary Parent, who collaborates with us on theme weeks, has the idea for Summer Snowb... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1677267 Sun, 03 Aug 2008 03:31:13 +0100 1677267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1677268&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FGSYpQltNrPc%2F Leeza Gibbon’s narrates this video about her mother’s journey into Alzheimer’s Disease and the creation of Leeza’s Place, an oasis for caregivers and loved ones dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease… Tags: Alzheimers-disease, Caregiving, Leeza's Place, Memories, the Leeza Gibbons Memory foundationShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1677268 Fri, 01 Aug 2008 01:51:46 +0100 1677268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1671629&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F351435055%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Your response to my A Glass Full of Tears giveaway has been wonderful.  I’m pleased so many of you wanted to share your involvement with Alzheimer’s or dementia.  I’d like to use some of those comments as ideas for posts, answering your questions, helping you find resources, start a dialogue among Alzheimer’s Notes readers. By sharing, perhaps you can help one another find encouragement and inspiration as you travel this journey, either as a caregiver, friend, patient, or someone who wants to know more about these types of memory loss illnesses. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregiver, contests, dementia, giveaways, health, healthy, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, memory-loss, men's health, random drawings... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1671629 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:00:51 +0100 1671629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668545&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F351435055%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Your response to my A Glass Full of Tears giveaway has been wonderful.  I’m pleased so many of you wanted to share your involvement with Alzheimer’s or dementia.  I’d like to use some of those comments as ideas for posts, answering your questions, helping you find resources, start a dialogue among Alzheimer’s Notes readers. By sharing, perhaps you can help one another find encouragement and inspiration as you travel this journey, either as a caregiver, friend, patient, or someone who wants to know more about these types of memory loss illnesses. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregiver, contests, dementia, giveaways, health, healthy, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, memory-loss, men's health, random drawings... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1668545 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:00:51 +0100 1668545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668547&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F350526828%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I’m offering a copy of A Glass Full of Tears, Dementia Day-By-Day by June Lund Shiplett as a giveaway here at Alzheimer’s Notes as part of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival. In this book, June Lund Shiplett shares the journal she kept during her husband Charlie’s encounter with multi-infarct dementia and the challenges she faced as his caregiver.  This is a particularly good book for a spouse caregiver since so many books are written from the child caregiver point of view, as mine was. June Lund Shiplett is the author of numerous romance novels and is known to many readers of this genre.  Sometimes we don’t realize our favorite authors often face the same or similar challenges that we do. Guidelines for the giveaway - Leave a comment below. Sh... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1668547 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:13:17 +0100 1668547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1664385&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F350152344%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  I find the warmer days of summer a time when it’s often difficult to come up with tempting recipes. If this is a problem for you, too, as you search for recipes for your Alzheimer’s patient, your other family members and yourself, take some suggestions from the Food Bloggers. Busy Family Meals - Slow down and try a delicious specialty drink from Venice!  Cyndi traveled there recently and came home with many recipes for her family and her blogs. Grilled Veggie Tostadas - A great way to use the bounty from late summer gardens. Mediterranean-Style Recipes: Jean’s Tuna Tamarindo - As you become accustomed to cooking in the Mediterranean (or Sonoma) way, you may find yourself creating your own recipes, as Jean has. Try Jean’s original Mediterran... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1664385 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 05:00:06 +0100 1664385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1664386&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F349661626%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I’m featuring a drawing/giveaway for a copy of my children’s anthology,Tales of Adventure & Discovery, described in the post, Mary Emma Allen Publishes a Children’s Anthology .  It contains fun stories for youngsters, ages approximately 6-10.  I also illustrated the anthology.  Authors, who write about Alzheimer’s and other topics, may find ideas to use for projects they’re considering publishing.  Parents and children like the stories. Teachers also use this book in their classroom, and I include it when giving author presentations and teaching writing workshops for children and adults. Check out the guidelines at Home Biz Notes.  The drawing ends Tuesday, August 5, at 11:59 PM (eastern). (Amazon image)  (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen�... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1664386 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:00:52 +0100 1664386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1655562&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F346428446%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Parents of the sandwich generation, who are caring for Alzheimer’s patients and children, will enjoy humorist Tim Bete’s latest book, Guide to Pirate Parenting and Cap’n Billy’s advice on turning your kids into buccaneers. Tim has been making the rounds of the blogosphere this month to let his fans know about Guide to Pirate Parenting.  He stopped at one of my other blogs,  Home Biz Notes, where we’re featuring home businesses involving writing and publishing this month.  So Tim gave, 10 Tips for Promoting/Marketing Your Book, which you’ll find interesting if you’re an author, or thinking of writing stories for children or adults. If you have questions for Tim, stop by the Home Biz Notes post and leave them in the comments. (... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1655562 Sat, 26 Jul 2008 08:00:13 +0100 1655562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652425&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F345323659%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Stimulating the memory and conversational abilities of Alzheimer’s patients may help them remain cognizant longer.  There are various ways to do this and one consists of showing them familiar objects and participating in familiar activities. What about using neckties that they’ve worn (if a man) or used by one’s spouse (if a woman)?  Sometimes just the pattern and colors will bring back memories.  (And the patient may surprise you by relating unpleasant memories as well.) Generally the memories will be of that person and various occasions when the neckties were worn.  You  also might consider combining the neckties into memory quilts, pillows, throws, and wall hangings.  Have you tried this? Check Out These Posts About Neckties & Quilts: M... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652425 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 05:00:32 +0100 1652425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652426&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F345033520%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Health and Wellness Channel’s theme this month centers around “Independence” and is hosted by Kendra James at A Healthy Life.  The various bloggers have adapted this theme to their particular topic for some very interesting ideas and reading. Alzheimer’s Notes participated with the post, Giving Up Their Independence - Discouraging for Alzheimer’s Patients.  Losing their independence becomes one of the challenging aspects of this disease that Alzheimer’s patients and their families have to face. I discusses this topic and invite our readers to “chime in.” Tags: Alzheimer's health, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, health, Health & Wellness Theme Day, health issues, healthy, independence, losing independence, Mary Alle... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652426 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 22:00:44 +0100 1652426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1646107&cid=t_103791_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=1646109&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F342771201%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Donna Sparks was the winner of the recent drawing for a copy of Finding the JOY in Alzheimer’s by Brenda Avadian, author and editor.  Adding value to the drawing was Brenda’s offer to answer a question from the winner. Here is what Donna asked: On your website, The Caregivers Voice, you talk about all the decisions caregivers have to make (medical, legal, ethical, etc.), and you share some of your concerns about whether or not the decisions you made for your father were “right” and “what he would want.” What is the one decision you struggled the most with, and in hindsight do you wish you had made a different decision or do you think it was the “right” decision? Brenda’s answer: Dear Donna, First of all, congr... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1646109 Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:00:43 +0100 1646109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1642747&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F342228017%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Giving up their independence and seeing their ability to do tasks by themselves slowly erode, becomes one of the most frustrating aspects of the disease for many Alzheimer’s patients.  They know something is amiss, but often don’t understand why they’re not allowed to do the ordinary, everyday activities on their own.  Or why they can’t do them. Driving - this becomes difficult to explain and for them to comprehend Staying home alone Going outside on their own Cooking Living in their own home Taking care of their finances These are just a few areas that cause frustration as the Alzheimer’s patient loses their independence.  The loss of these capabilities can cause discouragement in the rest of the family as the dependence on them bec... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1642747 Tue, 22 Jul 2008 05:00:36 +0100 1642747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1642748&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F341748652%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Sometimes phrases will spark memories and enthrall the Alzheimer’s patient.  See if you can remember any they may have been mentioned about your patient’s childhood.  These may be outdated words and phrases, but they reflect the world where your patient currently resides. The Dog Days of Summer….this was an expression of my childhood during the lazy, hazy days of languid, humid heat and still seems to be a saying or description of this time of year from about July 3 to August 11.  I recall my mom mentioning this when we were in the midst of haying and canning and the weather was hottest in the Hudson River Valley of New York State. The term seems to go way back to mythology  and the conjunction of Sirus (called the “dog star”) a... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1642748 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:58:59 +0100 1642748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1637859&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F339619059%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Since Alzheimer’s patients, at a certain stage of the illness, often live in the past, why not incorporate this family legacy into time travel for the youngsters in your household this summer?  Take advantage of the Alzheimer’s member’s memories…record and scrapbook them for your family legacy. However, youngsters are familiar with time travel books so popular nowadays.  Why not do some time travel as you delve into these memories? Find places on a map that Grandma tells about. Research how she lived when she was a little girl See how far back you can follow your family tree Find out about those eras and what people did Pretend you’re living in those days…and travel back in time for “pretent” adventures For instance, I... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1637859 Sat, 19 Jul 2008 05:00:28 +0100 1637859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1637860&cid=t_103791_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=1631215&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F337827377%2F I just finished reading a wonderful little book called High Heels to Hormones (A Woman’s Guide to Spine Care) by Christina Lasich, M.D.  Short and easy to read with plenty of cartoons to get the points across, I’d recommend it to any woman who suffers from back pain, and especially to anyone who is the role of caregiver. Caregivers, after all, are at great risk of back injury and would find this book useful for learning more about how to prevent and manage back pain. Christine has been kind enough to write a guest post for Alzheimer’s Notes looking at ‘Three Tips for Avoidng Caretaker Injuries’. The upcoming Olympic Games should inspire everyone to exercise and use proper body mechanics. These athletes compete at a high level and that requires them to take ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1631215 Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:36:21 +0100 1631215 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1625712&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F336768395%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Preserving our memories and those of Alzheimer’s patients can lead to scrapbooking fun.  I led a scrapbooking activity for Alzheimer’s patients at a nursing home and think they had as much fun as I did. With the help of an activity aide, we selected pictures taken of the residents as they engaged in various events at the home.  The patients exclaimed, “That’s me!” If they were able, they cut out the pictures and selected the colors of the background.  We pasted the photos and embellishments to the pages, one or two for each resident.  Then they shared with one another before we put the pages in a community scrapbook. This is something you also can do with your Alzheimer’s patient in your home, and with children if they’re... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1625712 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 05:00:31 +0100 1625712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622275&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F335759486%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Alzheimer’s disease is not always an isolated diagnosis.  You may be dealing with other illnesses and disabilities as well.  One of these could be breast cancer which the patient may have encountered before Alzheimer’s. Or she could have developed it while her memory was fading. Also, often the caregiver and/or other family members have health problems., which makes the caretaking more difficult. My aunt, who developed Alzheimer’sand ultimately became my responsibility (as well as my mom with Alzheimer’s) had experienced colon cancer several years before.  Surgery resulted, and fortunately Auntie didn’t have a recurrence. My mom had some lesions on her face that required removal.  The doctor said they were malignant.  Did I want furthe... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622275 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 05:00:14 +0100 1622275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622276&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F335449696%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Thanks, everyone, for visiting Alzheimer’s Notes and participating in the drawing for Finding the Joy in Alzheimer’s. The random drawing has taken place…..and the winner is…..Donna Sparks. Congratulations, Donna!  Your copy of Finding the Joy in Alzheimer’s will be on its way. Also, when Brenda Avadian, editor of the book, answers Donna’s question (the value added part of the contest), I shall publish that on the blog.  I’d asked those who commented to mention their connection to Alzheimer’s.  Donna said:  I’m Alicia’s mom, and I was a caregiver to both my grandmother and my mother. Many women in my family have had Alzheimer’s and I’m afraid that my sister or I will have it one day. [Alici... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622276 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:28:14 +0100 1622276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1618109&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F334547912%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Have you considered a home business so you can afford to stay home to care for your Alzheimer’s family member?  Perhaps you already have one.  Are you knowledgeable about home business taxes? Jean Murray, at Small Business Boomers, has a great post with information and resources concerning what the IRS (Internal Revenue Service in the US) considers a true business. You might like to check out her, Boomers Retiring to “Fun” Businesses: Is birdwatching a business? She mentions some of the criteria the IRS uses to determine whether you’re entitled to deduct your losses from the business you’re operating or starting up. (Amazon image)  (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, alzheimers-caregivers, Alzheimers-disease, ca... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1618109 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:52:58 +0100 1618109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1616214&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F332784719%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Christmas in July has become a popular event, whether you’re doing crafts, desiring an outing to a holiday shop (they’ve become very popular and often carry many other craft items), or simply want to start preparing early so your life doesn’t become too frantic in December with balancing caregiving responsibilities with family activities. At my Quilting and Patchwork blog, I’ve been participating in a Christmas in July series with other bloggers, posting something about the holiday season every few days.  Here are some of the posts if you’d like to check them out for ideas and information. 13 Holiday Recipes for Quilters to Enjoy 7 Quilted Christmas Gift Projects for Youngsters Quilters, What Colors for Christmas? 5 Christmas in July Ideas... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1616214 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:49:28 +0100 1616214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1605886&cid=t_103791_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=1606024&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F332089137%2F AlzheimersNotes.com What recreational activities or hobbies are you involved in  this summer with your Alzheimer’s patient (parent, spouse, or relative)?  Do you have special projects you do together?  If you have children in the home, too,  you’ll be looking for activities they can be involved in with you.  These also will help build great family memories and carry you over the frustrating times. Some of these the Alzheimer’s patient may not be able to do too well and may lose interest, but it will help keep them occupied for awhile. Others will be activities for younger children which may be all the patient can handle, too. Wrting down family memories Scrapbooking Making mini quilts Birdwatching around the yard and at bird feeders Cooking foods from the Alzhe... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1606024 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:29:36 +0100 1606024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1603190&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F330980457%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  In the post, For Alzheimer’s Caregivers Considering an At-Home or eBay Income, I mention Suzanne Wells and her new blog at b5media, eShopOwner.com. Suzanne has offered some additional insights for Alzheimer’s Notes’ readers:  eBay is becoming more and more popular for the “sandwich” generation who are looking for additional means to bring extra income into the home, whether to save for retirement or to care for a parent or spouse. eBay works great for caregivers or the homebound because sellers can interact with their customers and this helps with the isolation factor, and it gives the caregiver another focus, a hobby, and something fun to do to combat “caregiver’s syndrome.” Whether the caregiver develops an e-busine... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1603190 Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:00:36 +0100 1603190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1593919&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F329508100%2F AlzheimersNotes.com   Your Alzheimer’s parent or spouse requires more and more care, so you find it difficult to juggle caregiving and your job.  Or you simply need extra income to pay the additional bills caregiving entails. If you’re considering online or eBay businesses, check out the helpful information at the new blog at b5media’s Business Channel, eShopOwner.com, by Suzanne Wells. Suzanne has a number of posts concerning the in’s and out’s about setting up an eBay store. She does this in the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) format. For instance, in FAQ#1, Suzanne discusses, What Should I Sell?, and differentiates between the hobby and serious eBay business owner. She also touches upon her experience as an eBay business owner. Keep tuned to eShopOwner... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1593919 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 05:00:49 +0100 1593919 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1582068&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F327511873%2F AlzheimersNotes.com If you’ve thought about writing and publishing books, even newspaper and magazine articles, about your experiences as a caregiver or Alzheimer’s victim, you may enjoy the series of posts Yvonne Russell and I are writing (along with guest posts) at Home Biz Notes throughout July. I shall be writing a series on self-publishing, including my experiences with my book, When We Become the Parent to Our Parents, concerning my mom’s journey through Alzheimer’s and mine as her caregiver.  There will be posts on all types of writing from fiction and non-fiction, commercial writing, newsletters, and e-books. Come join us throughout the month to learn about writing and publishing from home.  Share with us and ask questions, too. (Amazon image) (c)2008 Ma... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1582068 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 18:00:25 +0100 1582068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1577373&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F327150987%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Obtaining information about Alzheimer’s aided me in understanding Mother and Auntie and hopefully being a better caregiver.  I tried to learn what they were feeling and what to expect with their actions. Since that time (the decade of the 1990’s) more research has been done and more books written.  We still don’t have all the answers.  However, there are many out there that will aid you. Here are just a few: A Glass Full of Tears, Dementia Day-By-Day by June Lund Shiplett (June’s account of caring for her spouse) The 36-Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins (a standby) The Alzheimer’s Action Plan by P. Muraldi Doraiswamy & Lisa P. Gwyther with Tina Adler (I shall be reviewing this book soon.) Mothering Mother, A Daughter&... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1577373 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 05:00:47 +0100 1577373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1577375&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F326810710%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  In the United States, we’re celebrating Fourth of July, or Independence Day. There are parades, fireworks, community activities, and for many a weekend off from work.  You may be somewhat confined at home, if you’re caring for an Alzheimer’s patient.  Or you may be visiting your family member at a nursing home and joining in festivities there. When I was growing up, we couldn’t take a day off from the dairy farm work. However, we usually visited relatives for a holiday meal, a family reunion type of gathering, then returned home for the evening chores. Then as dusk descended, we watched fireworks from the “Big Hill,” a hay field on a hill top from which we could see for miles. Bursts of fireworks were visible in the darkening sky.... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1577375 Fri, 04 Jul 2008 18:00:40 +0100 1577375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1575527&cid=t_103791_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=1564031&cid=t_103791_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F325234811%2F AlzheimersNotes.com As the Fourth of July approaches, many communities will hold parades and fireworks.  However, it’s usually not feasible to take Alzheimer’s patients to these.  Sometimes even youngsters find them very tiring. When you need relaxation and some home activities, check out some of those at One Book Two Book, where I’m a co-blogger.  If the Alzheimer’s patient can’t participate, he/she often enjoys simply watching. Books, particularly picture books hold their attention for awhile and may remind them of earlier days.  When Mother was in the mid stages of Alzheimer’s, she’d say the words she recognized, even when she might not make the mental connection.  Or the word or picture could set her to reminiscing.  They often enjoy hav... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1564031 Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:01:31 +0100 1564031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1561375&cid=t_103791_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fvideo-interview-with-alzheimers.html In this video reporter Amita Sharma interviews Ric Gomez, who quit his job to take care of his father, who has Alzheimer's. Ric says he and his father have used this time to reconnect, share some laughs, and share other activities. For instance, in the video they enjoy a game of dominoes, and Ric says his dad is very good and frequently wins. (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=1561375 Wed, 02 Jul 2008 05:14:00 +0100 1561375