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 'eldercare'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:20:01 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182361&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FBK8O3tQ88rY%2Fdepressed-housing-market-puts-pressure.html After four years of depressed home values, experts say thousands of seniors remain unable to move into senior housing because they can’t sell their homes quickly enough or for the price they need reports Kaiser Health News. This has lead to greater pressure on families to pay for parent’s and grandparents’ placements, or to care for them themselves. “We see people coming in much older and frailer because they’re taking a longer time to make the decision,” says Donna Taylor, executive vice president for the nonprofit Arizona Baptist Retirement Centers in Phoenix. “They don’t know how long it will take to sell their house, and in some cases they’re reluctant to sell because of the lower price.” Arizona Baptist, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), offers a spe... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182361 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:16:00 +0100 5182361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159889&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fo3HRZJGDll8%2Fcost-of-medicine-continues-to-be.html Approximately 10% of Medicare beneficiaries do not comply with their prescribed medication regimen because they simply cannot afford it, researchers from Harvard Medical School reported in the Journal of Cancer Survivorship. They added that elderly Medicare patients, whether or not they are being treated for cancer, commonly skip taking a pill so that they can last longer, or forgo filling a prescription completely because it is just too expensive. The authors believe that their findings suggest that seniors with cancer or those who survived it do not face greater medical costs than other patients. The rise in medication costs has occurred in parallel with an aging population, leading to greater financial burdens for the patient. Cancer costs have risen considerably. Patients being treat... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159889 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:33:00 +0100 5159889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159891&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FpdrJbmhzB3U%2Fboomers-will-be-spending-billions-to.html The following is an interesting article written by National AP writer David Crary. Baby boomers heading into what used to be called retirement age are providing a 70 million-member strong market for legions of companies, entrepreneurs and cosmetic surgeons eager to capitalize on their "forever young" mindset, whether it's through wrinkle creams, face-lifts or workout regimens. It adds up to potential bonanza. The market research firm Global Industry Analysts projects that a boomer-fueled consumer base, "seeking to keep the dreaded signs of aging at bay," will push the U.S. market for anti-aging products from about $80 billion now to more than $114 billion by 2015. The boomers, who grew up in a culture glamorizing youth, face an array of choices as to whether and how to be a part of that... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159891 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 14:36:00 +0100 5159891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140331&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FNVDbFkA1Kcg%2Fspecial-needs-trust-for-disabled-family.html The following is from our friends at Dutton & Casey Law Firm... What is it? A trust is a legal document that provides for the control and distribution of assets. The assets in a trust may be money, stocks, bonds, real estate, business interests, or other possessions. A trust may provide how assets are to be distributed during a person’s life, and also how they are to be distributed after a person’s death. A Special Needs Trust is a type of trust that helps to protect the assets of a person with disabilities. A trust may be set up by one person for another with a disability, to contain an inheritance or gift. A self-funded Special Needs Trust is a trust that contains the assets that had belonged to the person with the disability, who is the beneficiary of the trust. It is designed to h... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140331 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 17:44:00 +0100 5140331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5140332&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FkHsZjP0QEn4%2Fsenior-boom-creates-demand-for-home.html At her home health care agency here, Venus Ray quizzes 65 job applicants assembled before her: Can they cook? Do they know the right way to wash their hands? Can they safely transfer patients into wheelchairs? If they give wrong answers, speak English poorly or — God forbid — forget to turn off their cell phones, she asks them to leave. Francess Sillah helps to transfer Tanya Pittman out of an imaginary wheel chair while role playing during a group interview at Health Management Inc. Venus Ray, the agency's executive director, looks on and assesses their skills to be a home health aide. (Photo by Jessica Marcy) By the end of the session, Ray has dismissed 42 of the applicants, almost two-thirds, even though she's in dire need of employees. Ray is executive director of Health Managem... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5140332 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:08:00 +0100 5140332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5097136&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2F7piwh569rg8%2Fnew-anti-depressants-linked-to-falls.html The following is an interesting article that appeared in McKnight's Daily Update on August 4. Elderly patients being treated for depression may have better luck and fewer side effects with older tricyclic antidepressants rather than newer, more popular antidepressants such as Effexor and Prozac, a new study reports. Researchers say that while newer selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are generally considered safe and effective, there have been fewer studies testing their safety and efficacy in senior citizens. SSRIs, which include Celexa, Paxil and Zoloft, recently have been linked to an increase in falls in the elderly. However, British researchers say tricyclics could be safer in people over 65, especially those at risk for falls. The University of Nottingham analyzed pres... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5097136 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:46:00 +0100 5097136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086577&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FWjh4QjBdhjQ%2Ftips-to-overcome-mealtime-frustrations.html Mealtime with an Alzheimer's patient can be stressful and challenging, to make sure the patient gets sufficient nutrition. To help mealtime go more smoothly consider the following: Serve meals in a quiet environment with no distractions. Clear the table of everything but basic utensils and dishes; keep dishes plain rather than with bright colors or patterns. Make sure the food isn't too hot. Serve only one or two foods at a time, and make an effort to honor the patient's food preferences. Have meals together, and don't rush the meal. Be understanding if the patient can't remember already having eaten. Above all else, try and be patient (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnection) Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086577 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 03:45:00 +0100 5086577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069841&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FFtVZecI_pJc%2Fregular-dental-check-upsimportant-at.html Very few U.S. retirees have dental insurance today. Without coverage from traditional Medicare, and with private dental insurance typically costing too much to be feasible, most seniors are stuck paying full out-of-pocket prices every time they visit a dentist. While there's no one simple solution to affordable dental care there are a variety of options that can help cut your costs. Dental Discounts - one way you may be able to trim your dental care cost is by simply asking your dentist for a senior discount, especially if you're paying up front. Out-of-pocket payers save the dentist office the cost and hassle of filing an insurance claim, so asking for a small 10 to 20 percent discount is not unreasonable. Another cost-effective way to reduce your dental expenses is to join a dental d... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069841 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:51:00 +0100 5069841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062516&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FAO7ojwxCk_4%2Ffamily-caregiving-is-becoming-more-and.html Family caregiving is becoming a more and more common phenomena with the rise in numbers of American seniors, and a 2011 AARP study says the value of unpaid family caregiving reached $450 billion in 2009. Recent data shows one in eight Americans are 65 or older, with the number of seniors doubling between 2000 and 2030; the number of senior household is expected to increase 35% by 2020 from 2010 figures. Many older Americans embrace their independence and prefer receiving care at home and aging in place rather than going to a nursing facility, says AARP; this has contributed to the rise in caregiving in general, as well as family caregiving and the costs associated with it. To put the costs of caregiving in context, the AARP paper, Valuing the Invaluable: 2011 Update – The Growing Contr... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062516 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:32:00 +0100 5062516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5051285&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2F2kJTm6ZCaxo%2Foverwhelming-majority-of-older-american.html A recent Sun Life Financial survey found that a growing number of Americans aged 50 and older are concerned about future long term care, Sun Life Financial Inc. recently revealed. This prompted the corporation to introduce Sun Care Whole Life (WL), which it describes as a single premium whole life insurance policy with a linked benefit that owners can apply to long-term care costs, including for in-home care, assisted living, and nursing home facilities. The policy, which is currently available in 39 states, may provide a long-term care benefit equivalent to as much as three to seven times the value of the policy owner’s single premium, depending on factors such as the riders selected, age, gender, and smoking status, says Sun Life Financial. “According to the US Department of Health... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5051285 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:43:00 +0100 5051285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984713&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FlBR2W5p3VYQ%2Fone-mans-opinion-about-future-of.html The following Op-Ed appears in the June 29, 2011 New York Times, Opinion Section The “roar” and “popular political crusade” that Frederick R. Lynch calls for in “How AARP Can Get Its Groove Back” (Op-Ed, June 24) appear to be only a slightly veiled call on the elderly to resist any and all significant cuts to Social Security and Medicare. That might be possible with Social Security, but policy analysts have for years shown that a sustainable financial future for Medicare will require a sharp cut in benefits, and no less necessary for deficit reduction. That need will of necessity be painful, but need not be disastrous: more money has never guaranteed good health care. Moreover, a continued rise in Medicare costs will have to be paid for by the children of the beneficiaries.... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984713 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:45:00 +0100 4984713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968932&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FV7pgpG63JWU%2Ftransportation-can-impact-decision-to.html Many older Americans have expressed a strong desire to age in place, but instead they might get stuck in place by 2015, when more than 15.5 million Americans aged 65 and older will live in communities where public transportation service is poor or non-existent. There’s a huge senior mobility crisis threatening older Americans, a recent Transportation for America (T4 America) study finds, as high percentages of seniors in many metropolitan areas have limited transit options besides driving. The report, titled Aging in Place, Stuck without Options, says that in four years, a staggering 90% of seniors in the Atlanta metro area will be lacking adequate transit access—the worst in any metropolitan area with a population of more than three million. The study also finds that Kansas City and ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968932 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 13:01:00 +0100 4968932 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921772&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FqiIVIJBfNrE%2Faffordable-subsidized-housing-for.html While it’s no secret the Great Recession has been devastating to older Americans, it has also impacted the ability of U.S. communities to meet the needs of the aging population. A new report published by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging reveals that at best, communities have managed to maintain the status quo for the past six years due to the decline in the overall economy and local government budgets. “Most communities have been able only to “hold the line”— maintaining policies, programs and services already established,” said the report. “Thus, they have not been able to move forward to the degree needed to address the nation’s current “age wave.” Using information gathered for the survey, n4a found financial funding shortages, transportation, an... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921772 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:29:00 +0100 4921772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893947&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FrXSDoaL8pwI%2Fchoosing-right-time-to-collect-social.html The following is an excerpt of an excellent article written by Mary Beth Franklin, Senior Editor, Kiplinger's Personal Finance Not so long ago, some people planning for retirement wrote off Social Security as an endangered benefit and a marginal addition to their post-career income. But in an era of disappearing pensions and erratic stock-market returns, the idea of guaranteed income for life that keeps pace with inflation holds fresh appeal. Increasingly, near-retirees are becoming aware of the value of working longer and waiting to collect Social Security benefits until the benefits are worth more. But there are also a few clever -- and perfectly legal -- ways to time the collection of your retirement benefits to increase monthly checks for you, your spouse and any minor dependents. Pla... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893947 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 16:16:00 +0100 4893947 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883922&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FAmPyqJHOQKw%2Flow-property-values-still-plague.html A new report from Smart Money shows that after almost five years of falling home pries, many retirees must consider what to do with their homes should prices continue to collapse. Many who are approaching retirement have been counting on their home equity as a way to finance their golden years, but the real estate downturn has made it more difficult. In the past, Americans hoped to age in place and viewed the equity in their home as the break-in-case-of-emergency asset, the one asset they would use to pay for long-term care or nursing homes. Today, however, aging in place isn’t the option it once was, especially given the possibility that the equity in one’s home might be falling in value, while the cost of keeping a home real estate taxes, property insurance premiums and utilities ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883922 Tue, 31 May 2011 13:37:00 +0100 4883922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4862955&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FqUHPVRO7fdI%2Faddiction-knows-no-age.html The following article appeared in the Wall Street Journal on May 18, 2011 and speaks to the growing problem of drug and alcohol abuse among our older citizens. "I retired, I started drinking more," one man said. "I lost my father, my mother, my dog, and it gave me a good excuse," said another. A remarkable shift in the number of older adults reporting substance abuse problems is making this scene more common. Between 1992 and 2008, treatment admissions for those 50 and older more than doubled in the U.S. That number will continue to grow, experts say, as the massive baby boom generation ages. "There is a level of societal denial around the issue," said Peter Provet, the head of Odyssey House in New York, another center offering specialized substance abuse treatment programs for seniors.... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4862955 Wed, 25 May 2011 20:47:00 +0100 4862955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4862956&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FQINbOZhEmc8%2Fprimary-care-physician-help-keep.html As the primary-care workforce continues to be strained, new research shows that areas with higher levels of primary care have fewer patient deaths and preventable hospitalizations, according to a study in The Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers evaluated seniors with Medicare benefits who live in areas with higher levels of adult primary care physicians and physicians providing primary care. They found that elder patients were less likely to die or land in the hospital. Experts agree that graduating medical students electing other specialties other than primary care results in a primary care vacuum that must be filled. If the United States could fulfill the primary-care need, it would result in 50,000 fewer deaths and 436,000 fewer hospitalizations in a year, notes R... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4862956 Wed, 25 May 2011 20:15:00 +0100 4862956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4842015&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FPvO4sLAbBI8%2Fseniors-are-staying-in-their-homes.html Great information from our friends at Senior Housing News, written by Alyssa Gerace A March 2011 report from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies shows that many seniors who had planned to retire and move to a different home deferred that decision after the recent financial crisis took a toll on both the equity in their homes and their retirement accounts. Mobility rates, or the rate at which households report having moved, have declined for the senior population as a result. The report states that mobility rates have been trending downward since the mid-1980s, and that the chance of a homeowner moving any given year decreased from about 10% (between 1986-87) to 5.5% for 2007-08. “The 2008-2009 national economic recession further accelerated the downward trend in m... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4842015 Tue, 17 May 2011 13:52:00 +0100 4842015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4829337&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fn5FC2zyqTNw%2Felderly-are-better-off-than-advertised.html The following is a very good article that appeared in the Washington Post on May 15 by opinion columnist Robert Samuelson When House Speaker John Boehner calls for trillions of dollars of spending cuts, the message is clear. Any deal to raise the federal debt ceiling must include significant savings in Social Security and Medicare benefits. Subsidizing the elderly is the biggest piece of federal spending (more than two-fifths of the total), but trimming benefits for well-off seniors isn’t just budget arithmetic. It’s also the right thing to do. I have been urging higher eligibility ages and more means-testing for Social Security and Medicare for so long that I forget that many Americans still accept the outdated and propagandistic notion that old age automatically impoverishes people... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4829337 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:58:00 +0100 4829337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803557&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2F5u6cEmukrZU%2Fphysicians-focus-on-importance-of.html The Merry Widows, as they call themselves, were blinged out, Florida-style, to celebrate Elayne Weisburd’s 79th birthday at a sprawling community for seniors. Mylar balloons levitated above their table, and sparklers twinkled from a cake. The guest of honor and her two friends were beaming when Dr. Marc E. Agronin, a geriatric psychiatrist and the director of mental health, arrived with a hug for everyone long after what would be normal office hours. The Merry Widows moved to the community when their husbands developed Alzheimer’s disease and looked to Dr. Agronin to prepare them for what lay ahead. But while treating their husbands’ disease, he became their psychiatrist, too. He urged the women to attend therapy groups, made suggestions about medication for anxiety and encouraged ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803557 Mon, 09 May 2011 19:56:00 +0100 4803557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789653&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FHT6umFPlq5g%2Freport-warns-that-older-americans-will.html The report, published this month in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society, warns that as the proportion of older adults spikes from 12% to a projected 20% by 2030, caring for 70 million people 65 and older and 10 million 85 and older will be a challenge. Other types of health care providers will need to work in teams with the doctors to help coordinate patient care, according to the report. "There are not going to be enough geriatricians," says physician Gregg Warshaw, an author of the report and chair of the division of geriatrics at the University of Cincinnati. Currently, he says, "80% of pediatric patients see pediatricians, while 80% of geriatric patients see primary care doctors or internists." Earlier studies by physicians groups predicted 36,000 additional geriatricians ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789653 Wed, 04 May 2011 14:47:00 +0100 4789653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4768270&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FovKalgJ1Rs0%2Ffree-internet-referral-services-come.html Washington will be the first state to clamp down on the explosive growth of elder care referral businesses according to a report from the Seattle Times. The providers help guide families through a range of options for their loved ones that can include assisting living or other senior housing that best fits their needs for free. In return, these companies can be paid as much as $3,500 per person by the facilities for providing them with a client. Legislation sent to Governor Chris Gregoire will require referral companies to follow strict standards that include written disclosures of their commission rates. Washington is the first state to pass a comprehensive law to rein in elder-care referral companies, according to research by AARP, a senior organization that supported the bill. Across... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4768270 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:51:00 +0100 4768270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4759053&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FE9UskBxLnm4%2Ftai-chi-proves-to-be-great-exercise-for.html Tai chi exercises might be able to help improve heart failure patients' quality of life, mood and confidence, new research finds. People with heart failure experience shortness of breath, coughing, chronic venous congestion, ankle swelling and difficulty exercising due to the heart's inability to pump blood efficiently. The gentle movements of tai chi involve circular rotations, weight shifting and breathing techniques to promote balance and strength. Previous studies have shown it to be helpful in treating depression, hypertension and arthritis pain. To study its effects on heart failure, scientists from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School randomly assigned 100 heart failure patients 12 weeks of tai chi classes or educational sessions about heart failure. The... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4759053 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:32:00 +0100 4759053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753983&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FJUY9f8oT_ps%2Fmedicare-part-d-prepare-to-do-your.html The following is an excerpt from an article in SmartMoney Magazine, written by Glenn Ruffenach Medicare Part D Spending on prescription drugs in the U.S. totaled about $250 billion in 2009, more than six times the $40 billion spent in 1990. Here are some of the reasons why: Increased use and demand. From 1999 to 2009, the population grew 9 percent, but the number of prescriptions purchased jumped 39 percent. *Types of prescriptions written. The best-selling prescriptions are newer, higher-priced brand-name drugs, which have replaced older, less-expensive drugs. Price increases. Retail prices for prescription drugs increased an average of 3.6 percent annually between 2000 and 2009, versus an inflation rate of 2.5 percent. Research and development. Only one in five drugs in clinical tests... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753983 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 13:35:00 +0100 4753983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747914&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fozx7aD3WU7k%2Fcaregiving-and-family-circle.html Today’s guest post comes from SeniorsforLiving.com’s Michelle Seitzer. Before committing to life as a full-time freelance writer, Michelle spent 10 years in the senior living and advocacy world, serving in various roles at assisted living communities throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland, and leading the charge for Alzheimer’s as a public policy coordinator for the Pennsylvania chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association. She has blogged for SeniorsforLiving.com since November 2008 and currently resides in York, Pennsylvania, with her teacher husband and two Boston Terriers. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook. “When our relatives are at home, we have to think of all their good points, or it would be impossible to endure them.” - George Bernard Shaw Ah, family. Even those of us wi... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747914 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:01:00 +0100 4747914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4734695&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FHi9TaYYhoBs%2Fnew-guidelines-for-identifying.html By MONIFA THOMAS Health Reporter Chicago Sun Times Medical experts have issued new guidelines for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease that, for the first time, attempt to identify the hallmarks of the disease before symptoms occur. The original guidelines, published in 1984, dealt only with diagnosing Alzheimer’s once a person started showing signs of dementia. Since then, new discoveries have shown the disease can cause changes in the brain a decade or more before symptoms appear. The new guidelines — being published online today by the National Institute on Aging and the Chicago-based Alzheimer’s Association — are the first to include the use of brain imaging and measurement of certain proteins in the blood and spinal fluid to spot changes that could be due to Alzheimer’s. Mo... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4734695 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 14:53:00 +0100 4734695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4715030&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FN38B3R6T9FM%2Fbrightstar-care-ceo-to-be-featured-on.html BrightStar Care, one of the fastest growing home healthcare and staffing providers in the country has more than 200 locations across North America, including offices in Anne Arundel, Prince George, Montgomery and Baltimore Counties. BrightStar Care is one of the few full-service healthcare agencies to offer both medical and non-medical homecare to clients of all ages within their homes, as well as supplemental healthcare staffing to corporate clients such as hospitals and nursing homes. Shelly Sun, the CEO and Co-Founder of BrightStar Care, said of her experience, "I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to participate on ‘Undercover Boss.’ The experience deepened my appreciation for our caregivers and their relentless efforts to improve their clients’ quality of life and ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4715030 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 23:25:00 +0100 4715030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4704972&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FL-PBRrVgVxQ%2Fwhen-finances-become-health-issue-for.html by Eileen Ambrose, The Baltimore Sun Doctors are being encouraged to make sure elderly patients aren't victims of fraud. We have a special relationship with our doctors. We trust them and tell them intimate details about our lives. And doctors who see us regularly are likely to notice changes from visit to visit that might signal that all is not well. That's why some regulators and advocates for the elderly are reaching out to primary-care physicians, hoping they will use their unique position to help spot when older patients — particularly those with mild cognitive impairment — are victims of financial fraud. About half the states so far have signed on to the Elder Investment Fraud and Financial Exploitation program that aims to train doctors on the red flags of financial exploita... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4704972 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:14:00 +0100 4704972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4693521&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FgbQ58JQYjZU%2Fdarker-side-of-alzheimers-disease.html The following is an excerpt from the CNN.com article written by Madison Park. Alzheimer's patients are often vulnerable and fragile, but in rare cases, they can become the aggressor. About 5% to 10% of Alzheimer's patients exhibit violent behavior. It's unclear why the outbursts occur in certain patients. "If you don't understand what's happening because your brain is not functioning, it can be scary," said Beth Kallmyer, senior director of constituent services at Alzheimer's Association. "It's normal human behavior. You might act out, become agitated, or violent if you don't know what's going on." Before the Alzheimer's disease, Sam Cohen had never struck or hurt his family and his wife, Haya. Before the Alzheimer's disease, Sam Cohen had never struck or hurt his family and his wife, Ha... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4693521 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 17:51:00 +0100 4693521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684782&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FXnljkjIb0rY%2Fhome-health-agencies-up-in-arms-over.html The following is an article written by Phil Galewitz Kaiser Health News. Home health agencies, hospitals and consumer groups are complaining that a new rule intended to curb unnecessary Medicare spending will make it harder for senior citizens to get home care services. Under the requirement, which is to take effect Friday, Medicare beneficiaries will have to see doctors 90 days before or 30 days after starting home health services in order for the home health agencies to be reimbursed. Those face-to-face visits may be a burden for some home-bound frail seniors, as well as those who live in rural areas, the industry says. Some Medicare experts have little sympathy for industry complaints. "Home health is a benefit that is out of control," said Dr. Robert Berenson, a health policy exper... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684782 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 01:51:00 +0100 4684782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4658638&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fd0GffCw83Zk%2Fstudy-finds-caring-for-elderly-parent.html Research conducted by the Home Instead Senior Care network found that 46% of family caregivers say their relationships with siblings have deteriorated from an unwillingness to provide help. Making decisions together, dividing the workload and teamwork are the three key factors to overcoming family conflict, according to the organization’s research. “Senior caregiving can either bring families together or cause brother and sister conflict,” said Ingrid Connidis, Ph.D., from the University of Western Ontario. “In some cases it can do both. These issues can be very emotional.” Family feuds often revolve around the following areas: * Roles and rivalries dating back to childhood — Mature adults often find that they’re back in the sandbox when their family gets together. This ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4658638 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:56:00 +0100 4658638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4643013&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FToG6Y-gk47M%2Fworkplace-benefits-are-needed-to-meet.html The collision of the economy, the health care crisis, and a growing number of aging Americans has put many families in or near financial crisis according to a new report from Volunteers of America. “Plurality of caregivers say the economy has made it more difficult to provide care to a family member,” said the report. ”Few—roughly one in 10—are paid for the care they provide.” More than 46 percent report that the economy has made it harder to be able to provide care. Three quarters of caregivers state that the person to whom they provide care is 70 years or older. “We have a potential catastrophe looming with the collision of a significant, and growing, aging population, the economic downturn, and the health care crisis,” said Rosemarie Rae, executive vice president with... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4643013 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:08:00 +0100 4643013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4622512&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FDUcqbVlmPxk%2Fhow-will-growing-issue-of-inflation.html Prices are going up and Americans are already feeling the effects of higher food, property taxes and energy prices that are having a direct impact on their pocketbooks and the psyche. These rising costs and the fixed incomes of retirees are on collision course given the current trajectory of price increases. Not only are are the costs of living rising rapidly but housing options are becoming increasingly more expensive for seniors through higher rents, higher property taxes and increased utility costs. Whether independent living at home or at a senior living facility, cost increases will threaten decisions as the effects of inflation compound on pricing increases. Besides inflationary pressures, the lack of supply and increasing demand will exacerbate cost increases creating challenges f... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4622512 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:10:00 +0100 4622512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575255&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FaYDX9RqEUrk%2Fcredit-card-debt-that-outlives-mom.html  By SHERISSE PHAM Following a recent post on the rising levels of credit card debt among the elderly, several readers raised an important question: What happens when borrowers die? Do they take their credit card balances to the grave, or are those left behind responsible for the debt? Tom from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, offered an answer: “Excess debt over the value of the estate is considered insolvent and cannot be passed on to heirs.” He’s right, it turns out. Experts say that unlike a mortgage or a car loan, credit card debt is unsecured, meaning that it isn’t tethered to an asset. When someone dies, credit card companies have to wait near the back of the line to receive payment. If what’s left over after settling the estate isn’t enough to pay the bill... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575255 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:54:00 +0100 4575255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560626&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fm05BvfcVIcw%2Factor-mickey-rooney-tells-congress-of.html "If elder abuse happened to me, Mickey Rooney, it can happen to anyone," the 90-year-old actor said in testimony to the Senate Special Committee on Aging.In court documents, Rooney accused his stepson Christopher Aber of intimidating and bullying him and blocking access to his mail. The documents also alleged Aber deprived Rooney of medications and food."My money was taken and misused. When I asked for information, I was told that I couldn't have any of my own information," Rooney told the committee. "I was literally left powerless."Rooney rose to fame as a child star in the 1930s and 1940s when he made more than a dozen Andy Hardy movies. He appeared frequently alongside Judy Garland and, in his heyday, was one of Hollywood's biggest stars, receiving a junior Oscar in 1938.Rooney continue... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560626 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:21:00 +0100 4560626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4545263&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fu93DW3pHmfE%2Ffor-women-age-often-brings-isolation.html By Karen Stabiner, New York TimesMost elderly women today never worked outside the home, while most of their daughters did or still do. Members of these two generations approach the question of how to spend their days with very different skill sets.An elderly woman may have successfully navigated life as a mother, wife and guardian of home and hearth. But liberation from those daily responsibilities later in life can be disorienting, said Deborah Tannen, professor of linguistics at Georgetown University.To many women who have lived what she calls “a circumscribed life,” newness doesn’t always appeal, not after decades of a familiar and satisfying routine. Men who spent their lives in the workplace are familiar with new social situations and are less likely to feel unease, she said. A... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4545263 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:52:00 +0100 4545263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4536510&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FcIHcFK7nEOE%2Fstory-time-great-communicator.html Nearly 16 million Americans will be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia by 2050, according to the Alzheimer's Association. Symptoms include mood and behavior changes, disorientation, memory loss and difficulty walking and speaking. The effects of anti-dementia drugs on patients' emotions and behaviors are inconsistent. Now, University of Missouri researchers have found that participation in TimeSlips, a drug-free, creative storytelling intervention, improves communication skills and positive affect in persons with dementia.TimeSlips is a nationally recognized storytelling program for people with dementia that encourages participants to use their imaginations to create short stories as a group. Rather than relying on factual recall, participants respond verbally t... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4536510 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 20:09:00 +0100 4536510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4532585&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FTK9K4a2U1Z8%2Fhelping-elderly-parent-dig-out-of-debt.html Looking out for the welfare of aging parents can be difficult, but now there's another thing for adult children to worry about: skyrocketing credit card debt among seniors. According to a study released in July 2009 by New York City-based Demos, a public policy group, consumers 65 and older carried $10,235 in average card debt last year. That's up 26 percent from 2005. Credit card debt among all other borrowers rose only 3 percent during that time. Helping Mom and Dad out of debt"We have seen an uptick in the number of seniors that are reaching out for credit and debt counseling," says Melinda Opperman, vice president of community outreach for Springboard Nonprofit Consumer Counseling, an organization with offices in California, Nevada and Arizona.Credit card debt can decrease a senior's m... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4532585 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:03:00 +0100 4532585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507603&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FRh9A9Y5c_0k%2Fseniors-can-add-to-muscle-by-pumping.html As we age, our muscle mass decreases at surprising rates. According to Dr. David Heber, director of UCLA's Center for Human Nutrition, an average male who weights 180 pounds might after age 60 lose as much as 10 pounds of muscle mass over a decade.But can we turn that around?Heber says absolutely.In fact, new research published in the journal Medicine & Science In Sports & Exercise finds older adults who begin lifting weights after 50 may win the battle against age-related muscle loss.Palais started weight training to build bone mass. But she built muscle mass as well.Enlarge Jason Millstein for NPRPalais started weight training to build bone mass. But she built muscle mass as well.Palais started weight training to build bone mass. But she built muscle mass as well.Jason Millstein for NPRP... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507603 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 20:30:00 +0100 4507603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489997&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fc5LcWrGZGxw%2Foldsters-are-gaming.html A new study on motion gaming, video games that involve frequent movement such as playing games on Wii and Kinect gaming systems, finds that elderly individuals can benefit physically and emotionally from these fun activities. Video games that allow seniors to participate in previously enjoyed activities such as tennis, bowling, and golf are particularly helpful in improving health.According to a study by the Gerontological Society, virtually engaging in previously enjoyed activities increases life satisfaction, decreases reported loneliness, improves mood, and increases physical activity. Seniors also reported feeling “more apart of things” and more connected to the younger generation.Another study by the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that playing Wii hel... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489997 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 15:55:00 +0100 4489997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482982&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FNh7tbmm2L4k%2Fwill-working-past-65-affect-your-social.html Many people continue to work beyond retirement age, either by choice or out of necessity. But if you are receiving Social Security benefits, you need to be aware of how working can affect your benefit payments. Earning income above Social Security thresholds can cause a reduction in benefits and mean your benefits will be taxed. Whether it makes sense to work and collect Social Security at the same time is a complicated assessment that depends on how much you earn and when you begin taking Social Security benefits. How much can you earn and still get benefits? If you were born January 2, 1943, through January 1, 1955, then your full retirement age for retirement insurance benefits is 66. If you work and are full retirement age or older, you may keep all of your benefits, no matter how much... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482982 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:39:00 +0100 4482982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4460195&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FNxskr9Xvfh8%2Fgreatest-generation-meets-generation-me.html As more seniors opt to live closer to their alma-mater or various college towns across America, new concepts are sprouting on how those seniors will interact with the students on campus. According to a WSJ article this week entitled, “Making Sure Athletes Go to Class”,the University of Kansas has tapped a group of local seniors who are tasked with keeping tabs on the student athletes to ensure they attend class. In a tale filled with sweet talk and bribes, the article outlines a good example of the importance of keeping seniors active in their community and how it leads to building bonds with the "younger generation". (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnection) Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4460195 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 14:57:00 +0100 4460195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4433336&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FndC6-uMMKlk%2Ftwilight-wish-foundation-needs-your.html Twilight Wish Foundation, a 501c3, needs your help to grant a wish that they received from an elderly couple from Missouri. Larry and Mary have been married 48 years and have three children and nine grandchildren. Their wish is for a new oven to replace their old one that broke on Thanksgiving morning. Like many other seniors living on a fixed income, the rising costs of food, gasoline, utilities and prescriptions do not allow for any extras. In fact, Larry's tractor has been broken for months because they can't afford to fix it. They have given to others throughout their life together, donating surplus fruit and vegetables from their garden to neighbors and the senior citizens center in their town. Larry was a volunteer firefighter, President of the Chamber of Commerce, a church elder, a... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4433336 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 20:32:00 +0100 4433336 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429239&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2F-u0aT9wEjFA%2Fgeneration-alzheimers.html The Alzheimer’s Association has nicknamed the baby boomer generation “Generation Alzheimer’s” in a new report, since one in eight boomers is expected to develop the disease, for which there is no cure. Deaths related to Alzheimer’s are soaring, increasing 66 percent between 2000 and 2008, and scientists predict an approaching tipping point.The report finds that most of America’s greatest generation will spend their retirement years with Alzheimer’s or caring for someone who has it. About 13.5 million Americans are expected to suffer from Alzheimer’s by 2050 costing an estimated $1.078 trillion in current US dollars.The report also concludes that Alzheimer’s research is underfunded. “If you think finding a cure is expensive, consider the cost of facing people living with... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429239 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 20:38:00 +0100 4429239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4424503&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FJyB5HGZ4oMk%2Folder-patients-may-getlower-quality.html Trauma centers may not give the same high-quality care to severely injured elderly patients as they provide to younger patients, according to a new study.Researchers analyzed data on 87,754 trauma patients of all ages treated at 131 trauma centers in the United States and one trauma center in Canada. About one-quarter of the patients were elderly.When patients in all age groups were grouped together, 14 centers were rated as high performers, with lower than expected rates of death. When young and elderly patients were looked at separately, seven centers were high performers for young patients and nine were high performers for elderly patients. Only two centers were high performers for both young and elderly patients.The study findings are published in the January issue of the journal Annal... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4424503 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 21:44:00 +0100 4424503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419466&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2F4K9_RXdUjt0%2Fmedicare-expert-says-healthcare-reform.html The Affordable Care Act would not keep healthcare costs down, testified David Foster, chief actuary for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, before the House Budget Committee.Foster also said that healthcare costs might actually increase if Medicare cuts to nursing homes, hospitals and home health agencies wind up being politically unpopular, the Associated Press reports. These cuts, Foster said, could push 15% of providers out of the business. Additionally, he said that the healthcare law funnels savings from Medicare to coverage for the uninsured.White House officials have disputed Foster's analysis throughout the healthcare reform process. His assessment came last week in direct response to President Obama's State of the Union address. (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnection) Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419466 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 01:13:00 +0100 4419466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4399839&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FnKnZm4NwC9w%2Fstates-expanding-medicare-waiver.html The recession has greatly affected the elderly and those who provide for them. A new AARP report shines some much needed light on how states are changing elder care in response to the recession. Many states are using the economic downturn to restructure funding into lower cost services such as assisted living.AARP compiled data from all 50 states and the District of Columbia in a new report on the recession’s affect on demand and funding for state programs catering to older individuals. The report found that states, in an attempt to balance the budget, have largely cut services relating to seniors, but at the same time demand for these services has grown. The demand for assisted living was one of the fasted growing, increasing in 17 states.Recognizing the problems at hand, many states ar... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4399839 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:31:00 +0100 4399839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394763&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FQLUKY8uDWyA%2Fmore-hospices-providing-alternative.html Approximately 42% of U.S. hospices are offering alternative therapies such as massages or pet therapy, which are considered “complementary and alternative” therapies that don't fall under the rubric of standard care.Almost 72% of American hospices that offer alternative therapies now offer massages, while 69% provide support group therapy and 62% offer music therapy, according to data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Researchers point out that while these alternative therapies aren't usually covered by insurance, they significantly contribute to the patient's quality of life while calming their anxieties and improving their moods. The CDC study was published in Wednesday's edition of National Health Statistics Report. (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnection) Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394763 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:11:00 +0100 4394763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394764&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2F7xvf6tFioHI%2Freverse-mortgages-took-it-on-chin-in.html Reverse mortgages took it on the chin in 2011. During the year, reverse mortgages volumes have suffered as a result of the continuation of declining home prices, regulatory changes and headline risk associated with high costs and stories where seniors have been taken advantage of as part of the process. Final numbers released from Reverse Market Insight show that volumes 35% during 2010, with 72,748 units being endorsed in 2010. The data for 2010 shows a significant drop in active lenders leading to increasing market share and volumes for lenders who have survived during the last few years. Volumes in December show that Wells Fargo remained the top lender by unit volume followed by Bank of America and MetLife rounding out the top 3.Read full report... (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnecti... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394764 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:30:00 +0100 4394764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4372257&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FcObt5vm5zCc%2Fdo-i-need-medicare-part-b.html Need Medicare Part B? If you’re eligible, now is the time to sign up. The general enrollment period for Medicare Part B runs from January 1 through March 31. Before you make a decision about general enrollment, let us fill you in on some general information.Medicare is a medical insurance program for retired and disabled people. Some people are covered only by one type of Medicare; others opt to pay extra for more coverage. Understanding Medicare can save you money; here are the facts.There are four parts to Medicare: Parts A, B, C and D. Part A helps pay for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, and other services. Part B helps pay for doctors' fees, outpatient hospital visits, and other medical services and supplies not covered by Part A. Part C allows you to cho... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4372257 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:51:00 +0100 4372257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4352857&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FWHL5FS7H4Qs%2Fgracious-mindset-of-seasoned-citizens.html The Gracious Mindset of Seasoned Citizens by Garry Harper, author & theologianThere’s nothing like a lifetime when it comes to putting mistakes into context. Who among us can’t recall a poor decision here or there that seemed to change the vector of our lives? And yet, when one reaches the age of “real” enlightenment – say 55 – looking back brings far more smiles than frowns of disappointment. Could it be that grace moves like an arc over the span of our lives? While we’re traveling on the straight line of time, grace moves over and above us at a somewhat quicker pace. It is most distant from us – almost out of our reach – when we’re raising our own children. In our late 20’s and early 30’s we’re tempted to indulge ourselves in sophomoric self-righteousness. Someh... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4352857 Sat, 15 Jan 2011 20:20:00 +0100 4352857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4343355&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FLcSuYRumiTc%2Fboomers-and-seniors-digging-into.html Baby Boomers and seniors in the United States are taking a more pragmatic approach to their housing choices as an effect of the economic downturn according to a new study released today. A joint study by the 50+ Housing Council of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the MetLife Mature Market Institute reveals that home design considerations have taken a back seat as financial matters have been more prominent in home purchase process for 55+ buyers. The new study, "Housing Trends Update for the 55+ Market,", explores households living in active adult communities, either age-qualified active adult communities where at least one resident must be age 55+, other non-age-qualified 55+ owner-occupied communities (not explicitly restricted to 55+ households but nevertheless occupi... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4343355 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 14:35:00 +0100 4343355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331262&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FAdXeRc_CDhU%2Fmore-trouble-at-border.html Boomers, are you aware that Medicare stops at the Border? The exposure to financial harm is high for anyone traveling outside the United States, especially for seniors who are on Medicare, since Medicare stops at the border except for limited circumstances. If you have a Medicare Supplement, there is some relief for emergency medical care, but that too has limits – you can very easily exceed the limit causing you to dip into your retirement savings. The lifetime maximum for foreign travel coverage outside the United States on Medicare Supplement policies is $50,000. This amount can be easily exceed when traveling. Without Travel Medical Insurance, you are required to pay for services at the time you receive them. However, if you have travel medical insurance, those issues are handled by... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331262 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:54:00 +0100 4331262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331263&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fc9ME6nvgNJA%2Fsplitting-pills-can-be-dangerous.html The practice of splitting tablet forms of medications is a risky technique, Medical News Today reported.Researchers found that nearly one-third of split tablet fragments varied from the recommended dosage by 15% or more, according to a study which was published in the January issue of the Journal of Advanced Nursing. Medical experts are concerned because with some medications, there is a narrow margin between therapeutic and toxic doses. They say the practice is widespread in all healthcare sectors."It is done for a number of reasons: to increase dose flexibility, to make tablets easier to swallow and to save money for both patients and healthcare providers,” the study's lead author, Dr. Charlotte Verrue, told Medical News Today. “However, the split tablets are often unequal sizes and ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331263 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 18:00:00 +0100 4331263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309865&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FawaloOVW0Mg%2Fbullies-with-gray-hair.html Having worked for several years in assisted living I witnessed many episodes of bullying between residents. The first time I encountered it I was stunned that mature individuals would treat each other with such disrespect...Patricia Grace, Aging with GraceBullying may be a concern for teenagers in schools and through Facebook, but young people online are not the only targets of verbal abuse and social ostracism. Residential facilities for the elderly are not immune to abuse either.Doris Lor, a retired secretary living in a retirement community in Chandler, Ariz., said she has been the victim of intimidation from other residents since she bought her home in 2003.Lor, 76, lives in Solera Chandler Active Adult Retirement Community, which has more than 1,100 residents 55 years and older. She s... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309865 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 15:45:00 +0100 4309865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266298&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FI0Ix32sodsw%2Fstudy-finds-that-narcotic-painkillers.html written by Barry MeierOlder patients with arthritis who take narcotic-based drugs to relieve pain face a higher risk of bone fracture, heart attack and death when compared to those taking non-narcotic drugs, according to a government-financed study published Monday.The study, in The Archives of Internal Medicine, appears to be the first large-scale effort to look at the comparative safety risks for the elderly taking different classes of painkillers. The use of narcotic painkillers has increased in recent years because of a prevailing belief that such drugs were safer for older patients than non-narcotic drugs like Advil and Motrin.The review, financed by the federal Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research, appears to undercut that assumption. The report, which was based on an analysis ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266298 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:41:00 +0100 4266298 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4179532&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FH6Tit5nvHu0%2Fhispanics-face-unique-alzheimers.html Alzheimer's specialists in Chicago have recently launched a new effort to educate the city's Latino population about the disease, as it affects Latinos about seven years earlier than it does white Americans.Experts say that low-income levels, language barriers and access to medical care contribute to higher rates of diabetes and high-blood pressure in Latinos, making them more susceptible to Alzheimer's, according to the Chicago Tribune. This has caused what the Alzheimer's Association refers to as a public health crisis. Read more... (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnection) Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4179532 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 19:18:00 +0100 4179532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172340&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FKa_-nSIQDVA%2Falzheimers-starts-earlier-for-heavy.html In this study, we found that the combination of heavy drinking and heavy smoking reduced the age of onset of Alzheimer's disease by six to seven years, making these two factors among the most important preventable risk factors for Alzheimer's disease." Read full article... (Source: Aging with Grace CareConnection) Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172340 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 23:36:00 +0100 4172340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4098490&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FiV-twYF3u98%2Fi-actually-took-9-hours-to-read.html By Martha B. Boone, MDThe following is a letter written by Dr. Martha Boone to her patients. Very enlightening...Dear Wonderful Patients,This is about the healthcare reform bill.90% of my patients ask me what I think. 10% prefer to get their information from the media. If you want to know what has actually happened to me, my family, and some of my patients, please...read on.If you prefer to form your opinions without the input of your doctor, feel free to delete this now. There is MUCH “theory” out there about what the healthcare bill will and won’t do for Americans.I actually took the nine hours required to read it. I am VERY, VERY, worried about its content and what it will potentially do to American healthcare. Let’s talk about what has actually come to pass, so far- Read full ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4098490 Sat, 23 Oct 2010 15:22:00 +0100 4098490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4098491&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FjexKuwuMOlc%2Fstretched-to-limit-money-for-college.html As people live longer and start families later, thousands of them are caring for children and elderly parents simultaneously. The competing demands from children and parents for time and resources are emotionally and financially draining. This situation has become all too familiar for many of the 77 million baby boomers and their younger Generation Boomer counterparts who find themselves "sandwiched" between caring for aging parents while still raising their own kids, to say nothing of working full time and saving for their own retirement.Financial issues are at the heart of the elder care system, and adult children often find themselves faced with concerns about their parents' finances along with how they will fund their children’s college education. Aside from purchasing a home, payi... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4098491 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 22:25:00 +0100 4098491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546843&cid=t_114072_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FKsX_kk5f6ss%2F By David BoazBack in 1996 George Liebmann wrote in Regulation about how “Zoning makes it more difficult to keep aged parents close by and care for them.” He recommended that “Duplex homes and accessory apartments should be permitted in all new residential construction. Housing options such as these allow elderly persons to live near their adult children without intruding on their children’s privacy.” (“Modernization of Zoning,” pp. 71, 75) Now the Washington Post reports The Rev. Kenneth Dupin, who leads a small Methodist church [in Salem, Virginia], has a vision: As America grows older, its aging adults could avoid a jarring move to the nursing home by living in small, specially equipped, temporary shelters close to relatives.So he invented the ME... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546843 Sat, 08 May 2010 17:53:43 +0100 3546843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2664099&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcfIjgN5eKKQ%2Frevolution-in-alzheimers-dementia-and.html One of my greatest fears is the day I might have to place my mother in an Alzheimer's care facility. I say might because I pray that I'll never have to do it.I receive emails all the time from people that experience the guilt, angst, and remorse of having place their loved one in a Alzheimer's care facility that provides little care, and is a horrid environment for their loved one.Our reader Rose LaMatt, wrote of her own nightmare experience after she placed her loved one into an Alzheimer's care facility. In Just a Word, she writes with real, raw, emotion about the myriad of feelings she experienced when moving her loved one from the first Alzheimer's care facility to a second. Reading her words were eye opening, and gut wrenching.Sadly, its ugly out there.It doesn't have to be that way..... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2664099 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 01:34:37 +0100 2664099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2662632&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcfIjgN5eKKQ%2Frevolution-in-alzheimers-dementia-and.html One of my greatest fears is the day I might have to place my mother in an Alzheimer's care facility. I say might because I pray that I'll never have to do it.I receive emails all the time from people that experience the guilt, angst, and remorse of having place their loved one in a Alzheimer's care facility that provides little care, and is a horrid environment for their loved one.Our reader Rose LaMatt, wrote of her own nightmare experience after she placed her loved one into an Alzheimer's care facility. In Just a Word, she writes with real, raw, emotion about the myriad of feelings she experienced when moving her loved one from the first Alzheimer's care facility to a second. Reading her words were eye opening, and gut wrenching.Sadly, its ugly out there.It doesn't have to be that way..... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2662632 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:21:18 +0100 2662632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2387198&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fo3-Je_tpmdE%2Fcomplete-eldercare-planner-revised-and.html I read the original edition and the book has now been revised. It is worthwhile reading and contains lots of useful information. I found it helpful. Here are some of the areas covered in the book.Getting started on creating a long-term care plan.How to find help,  especially if you live far away.Managing financial aspects of the situation.How to talk to elders about sensitive subjects.Addresses issues surrounding senior housing–move or stay put?Managing medications.Several other topics that are of interest to anyone caring for an elder. The Complete Eldercare Planner, Revised and Updated Edition: Where to Start, Which Questions to Ask, and How to Find HelpSubscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via EmailEditorial ReviewsProduct DescriptionAs our population shifts and ages, the care n... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2387198 Sun, 03 May 2009 17:28:12 +0100 2387198 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1512377&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fneed-help-with-elderly-parents.html Friends, acquaintances and caregiver agencies often offer well-meant advice but where can you find educated, certified, licensed expert help and advice for aging parents? At caregiverlist.com an article on Geriatric Care Managers explains credentials can include being a Registered Nurse, Licensed Counselor of Social Work, Counselor of Psychology or Attorney. Certifications for Geriatric Care Managers require "educational qualifications, supervision, work experience, written exams, and ongoing education to maintain a certificate."I have seen that too often people are overwhelmed with advice from others who do not have the education, licenses, experience and credentials to be genuine experts. Friends, other caregivers, caregiver agencies, and others who are involved in the eldercare world bu... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1512377 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:43:00 +0100 1512377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1501513&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fguest-post-servingstrongcom-s-scott.html I remember it like it was yesterday. I was a young teenager. I was on my way home from my girlfriend's house. She lived about an hour away. I had seen the oil light come on at the dashboard days before. I just figured I would get more oil when I got the chance. Besides, the light would go out occasionally. So I thought I had more time.But on my way home from my girlfriend's house that day, the light came on and stayed on. I was still 20 minutes from home. "I'll take care of it when I get home," I reasoned with myself (and unfortunately, self agreed.)Then this terrible banging started. It was loud. It wouldn't stop. I drove home with the sound. It seemed to get worse as I accelerated. Long story short -- I blew the entire engine of my Honda Civic. The loud banging sound I heard was the engi... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1501513 Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:30:00 +0100 1501513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1500416&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fbedsores-bruises-dehydration.html The website at For The People explains that " neglect and abuse of the elderly happens every day and can be physical, emotional or simple negligence." Recognizing whether something is defined as neglect can require expert assistance. Examples of conditions that might be abuse or neglect include "bedsores, open wounds, cuts, bruises, dehydration, malnutrition, weight loss, burns, falls, bowel impactions, medication errors, poor personal hygiene, verbal or physical abuse, over-sedation, etc."The website has a list of nursing home cases and settlements. There is also a Nursing Home Checklist and a Quick Guide to Nursing Homes at For The People.A guide on How to Report Nursing Home Abuse and Signs of Nursing Home Abuse are also available at the website. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resour... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1500416 Fri, 06 Jun 2008 20:43:00 +0100 1500416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1500417&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fguest-posts-welcomed-at-caregivers.html Would you like to write a guest post for the Caregiver's Beacon? Caregiver stories, Alzheimer's and Dementia, caregiving, eldercare, related legal and financial issues, disability, and other related topics are welcome. Send your post by email to Kristi Marie Gott kgott@charter.net. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to send an email and I'll be glad to help. Best wishes to all and take care, 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=1500417 Fri, 06 Jun 2008 20:25:00 +0100 1500417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1500418&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fnursing-home-abuse-and-neglect.html Bruises and bedsores are some of the conditions that may lead to a lawsuit over nursing home abuse and neglect. The video below by the Consumer Justice Group explains causes of bedsores, checking your loved one for bruises, and how to watch for warning signs of neglect or abuse. (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=1500418 Fri, 06 Jun 2008 19:55:00 +0100 1500418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1497854&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fhealth-insurance-and-medical-insurance.html A live news feed from the website Medical News Today for Health Insurance and Medical Insurance has been added to the Caregiver's Beacon. Other live news feeds currently include Alzheimers and Dementia, Caregivers and Home Care, Stroke and Hypertension, and Arthritis. There are also live video feeds for Alzheimer's Caregivers and for Stroke. A live newsreel also covers eldercare, nursing homes, home care and caregivers. (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=1497854 Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:02:00 +0100 1497854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1446539&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fcaregivers-tips-5-safety-precautions.html These tips are for caregivers who are assisting people who have breathing difficulties, allergies or lung conditions. It is important to avoid aggravating breathing problems. This list focuses on being sure not to use products with scents or fragrances added. If a person you are assisting develops rasping breathing, gasping, or any breathing difficulty seek professional medical help and if an emergency is suspected call 911 immediately.1. SCENTED PERSONAL PRODUCTS. Caregivers can avoid using scented personal products for themselves or the person they assist, such as scented soaps, perfumes or colognes, shampoos, conditioners, detergents, lotions, cosmetics, or hair products with scents.2. SCENTED SPRAYS. Anything that can be inhaled and might irritate the breathing passages or lungs can be... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1446539 Fri, 16 May 2008 01:02:00 +0100 1446539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1101530&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F201975286%2F                               It’s difficult enough when you family member has no health problems other than Alzheimer’s  But when there are other issues, such as diabetes, their care becomes more complex for family caregivers and for staff at a nursing home. Here are 7 tips which hopefully will make diabetes care for Alzheimer’s patients a bit easier:  1. Learn about diabetic diets, especially if you’re the one preparing the food. 2.  Learn about your family member’s  medical needs. 3.  When your family member resides in a nursing home, make sure you note this on the forms you fill out.  Diabetes should show up in their health records, but be sure you have it documented. 4. Coordinate with caregivers at the nursing home and... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1101530 Tue, 18 Dec 2007 02:55:03 +0100 1101530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1048579&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fjacqueline-marcells-book-elder-rage-or.html At the website for "ElderRage - Or, Take My Father Please!" eldercare expert Jacqueline Marcell tells about the times she had to intervene when her father, who was mostly blind, and had bad hearing and memory loss, hid the car keys so he could take the car out later. He insisted he did not know where the keys were. After Jacqueline heard a clanking when he walked she found the car keys masking taped to his leg.Another story titled, "Midsummer's Nightmare at the Alamo" tells of the time her father came in to wake her and tell her there were two guys in the house, one wearing a coon-skin cap like Davy Crockett, and another who looked like someone from the FBI. He pointed at Jacqueline's mom and said, "There's one of them now." But when they got closer to get a better look he said, "Oh, that'... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1048579 Sat, 24 Nov 2007 23:49:00 +0100 1048579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=986016&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F28%2Fwhat-you-see-is-what-you-get%2F Today, some of you will see this blog just like any other day. The rest of you are seeing this blog on our new and improved caregiver website. If you cannot see it yet, check back over the next few hours. Our wonderful webmaster, Casper, tells us that different operating systems will see the change at different times. My sister and I have added 40+ pages of information, tips, resources, laughs and stories to KnowItAlz.  Our goal is to create a community to help caregivers find information and the support they need to make this job easier.  The success of KnowItAlz is dependant on all of us who have already been “blessed” with caregiving sharing our stories, support and encouragement with each other and those who are new to caregiving.  All of us may need some specific ad... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=986016 Sun, 28 Oct 2007 14:31:49 +0100 986016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=984063&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F27%2Fmaking-up-for-lost-time%2F By Nancy Hatfield As you know, Dad, Kathy and David are all in Atlanta visiting me for the weekend.  With all the stress in Kathy and David’s life, I thought a nice surprise would be to schedule massages for everyone.  The only time with 4 spots available was 10 am.  For the regular blog readers, you know Dad doesn’t like to get up early–”8:30…that’s the middle of the night!” To prevent a fuss, we decided to use a regular trick from the bag and set his watch an hour ahead. Thirty minutes before our scheduled time, we got a call saying Dad’s therapist had been in an auto accident.  She was ok, but we would have to move our appointment. I told Dad he could slow down since we had an extra hour and our new appointment time was 11.  He said &... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=984063 Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:27:06 +0100 984063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=980696&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F26%2Fgeorgia-on-my-mind%2F Dad, David, Lola and I are heading for Atlanta this afternoon to see my sister Nancy, in Atlanta for the weekend. I have already packed for David, Dad and Lola.  I’ll get to my own stuff at the very end. Last time I forgot all of my pants.  The time before that I forgot Dad’s pajamas.  I made a checklist this time to make sure we all have everything. Seems like I found a lot of checklists in Dad’s room when cleaning out his condo.  Hmmmmm. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=980696 Fri, 26 Oct 2007 13:17:37 +0100 980696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=977456&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F25%2F100-plus-your-age%2F Dad has been having unusually low blood pressure over the last few weeks, so both Katie (CNA) and I check his blood pressure three times throughout the day. Each time the reading is announced, he says, “100 plus your age is the best blood pressure.” He especially enjoys it when it is 121 over something.  He’ll say, “Now I can get a legal drink!” I told him that the “100 plus your age” rule was only true way back when people only lived to be 60! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=977456 Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:46:25 +0100 977456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=976576&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F24%2Fneed-more-dad%2F Dad came in to my office earlier, and I was frantically looking for something for one of my customers.  I’ll admit, there was a small amount of cursing going on, and Dad asked what was wrong.  It has been a VERY busy and problem-filled morning for me at work. “I am having a problem with work.” I replied.  “I hope I have not done anything to make your day worse.” He said. “This is the first I’ve seen of you today, how could you have done anything to make my day worse?” I asked. Dad said, “Well, if this is the first you have seen of me, maybe that’s your problem!” (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=976576 Wed, 24 Oct 2007 16:04:33 +0100 976576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=971538&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F23%2Fdads-good-fortune%2F Dad went to dinner with my sister, Susan and brother-in-law Joe last night, while David and I went to take Jessica home. They had Chinese food, and Susan told me this morning that Dad’s fortune cookie read, “Sweet rewards will be coming to you.”  Dad took that to mean he should order dessert. Susan said that it was sort of a “no-brainer” fortune, since it did come inside a cookie. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=971538 Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:01:51 +0100 971538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=970257&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F22%2Fpie-the-sixth-food-group%2F Jessica, my stepdaughter was here this weekend.  She is really terrific with her “Pop Pop”, and if we go out, she always makes sure he is right with her.  She talks to him about school, and answers his repetitive questions as if it were the first time he had asked. This morning, Jessica was making him a bowl of cereal when she saw some raspberries, blueberries and blackberrries in the fridge, so she asked him what his favorite fruit was. “Anything in a pie.” He replied. I guess I will not have to worry about his Alzheimer’s taking away his appetite! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=970257 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 15:07:14 +0100 970257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=967213&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F21%2Fclose-enough%2F The weather in North Carolina is absoultely beautiful right now.  Dad’s favorite subject is the weather, since it requires no memory.  He just looks outside and says, “Looks like a beautiful day.” or “Looks like we’re going to get some rain.” Yesterday, Dad and I sat outside on the deck for lunch.  The sun was shining, and it was really warm with a nice breeze. “It sure doesn’t feel like September.” said my Dad. “It sure doesn’t.” I agreed. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=967213 Sun, 21 Oct 2007 15:34:19 +0100 967213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=966019&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F20%2Fthe-little-things%2F Having my Dad have Alzheimer’s and live with me was not in my plan.  But as we all know, plans change.  I always try to look at the bright side of things, and one thing this experience has taught me is to appreciate the little things in life.  For example, a friend came over and stayed with Dad for a couple of hours while I went to get a haircut.  A haircut in a shop, by a hairdresser, not a cut I did myself in my bathroom with David’s moustache scissors.   She said it had been over three months since I had been in. I used to take a haircut for granted, but not anymore.  To me, it was like a day at the spa! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=966019 Sat, 20 Oct 2007 21:40:29 +0100 966019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=962733&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F19%2Fmusic-to-my-ears%2F Dad and I had the evening alone together last night, and I had a lot of computer work to do,  finishing up adding features and content to what will soon be the “new and improved” KnowItAlz website. I hate for Dad to have to sit alone and watch TV, so I invited him into my office and turned on the AOL Radio Channel that plays all 1940s music.  Dad sang along to all of the songs, and remembered the words to most. I have read many times that music is of help to Alzheimer’s patients, but hearing Dad sing, “Chatanooga Choo-Choo” and “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree with Anyone Else but Me” with a huge smile on his face, really drove the point home. I think it is like a “Senitmental Journey” for him.  Pun intended.  (Source: Know... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=962733 Fri, 19 Oct 2007 11:34:01 +0100 962733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=961844&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F18%2Fruns-in-the-family%2F Last night, I had to run into town to pick up some chicken for dinner.  Dad’s blood pressure has been really low lately, so I left him in the convertible as I ran into the store.  When I came out, I walked two aisles away from the car (not remembering where I had parked) and looked around for a solid minute. When I finally saw Dad he was waving his arms wildly so I could see him.  “Where were you going?” he asked. “I forgot where I parked the car.” I said, chuckling. “I think you are getting senile.” Dad said. Now that’s the pot calling the kettle black! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=961844 Thu, 18 Oct 2007 13:29:40 +0100 961844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=959065&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F17%2Fthe-best-medicine%2F It is 3:21 pm and this is the first chance I have had to blog!  I had to get Dad up early (never fun) to go to a doctor’s appointment.  I changed the time on his watch so he thought it was 11:20 a.m. when it was really 8:20 a.m.  This trick has served me well over the years, but not today.  He was tired and grumpy. The nurse came in, talked to us a few minutes and then left, saying, “Take off your shirt and the doctor will be right in.” I told Dad, “I should take off my shirt and tell the Doctor we misunderstood.” Dad laughed and laughed and forgot all about being grouchy and impatient waiting for the doctor. Humor really is the best medicine!  And there’s no co-pay! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=959065 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 19:32:43 +0100 959065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=954498&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F16%2Flymanade%2F A dear reader, known as “E”, sent a comment to a blog entry that read, “Thanks for the lemonade.” I thought that was so poignant.  My sister, Nancy and I were talking about that comment this morning, and she said that I really am making lemonade out of lemons.  The point of this blog has always been to look at the “bright side” of caring for my Dad with Alzheimer’s. Since my Dad’s name is Lyman, she said I should consider it “Lymanade!” (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=954498 Tue, 16 Oct 2007 13:22:12 +0100 954498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=954134&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F170586754%2F Picture books focusing on Alzheimer’s help youngsters (and adults) learn more about this disease as it affects the people in their lives.  Yvonne  Russell calls this book to our attention, as well as Australia’s National Dementia Awareness Month.   By Guest Blogger - Yvonne Russell Australia’s 2007 National Dementia Awareness Month runs from 17 September to 17 October. This is Alzheimer’s Australia’s national community education campaign. Let’s mark the occasion, by sharing one of Australia’s most famous and best loved picture books, which deals with Alzheimer’s.   Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge & Mem Fox Australian author, Mem Fox, is world renowned as a great picture book author. Her award winning, Possum Magic is Australia&#82... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=954134 Tue, 16 Oct 2007 10:46:33 +0100 954134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=950989&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F15%2Fk-9-update%2F Sierra is fine.  We have decided she must have had some food poisoning or something.  She is feeling much better, thanks for all of your emails checking on her.  I keep forgetting how everyone around here has a fan-base!  Even the dogs!   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=950989 Mon, 15 Oct 2007 11:46:43 +0100 950989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=949990&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F14%2Fcorny%2F Dad loves corn on the cob. I bought some yesterday, knowing that it will not be available much longer.  Whenever I make corn on the cob, Dad says the piece he is eating is the “best and sweetest of the season”.  He literally makes that remark each and every time we eat corn. As he bit into the corn, he exclaimed, “That is wonderful corn!  This must be the first of the season.” “It’s October.” I reminded him. “I meant the first of the football season.” he said. Wow, what a great recovery, Dad! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=949990 Sun, 14 Oct 2007 13:18:40 +0100 949990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=948674&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F13%2Fsick-as-a-dog%2F Our beloved husky, Sierra, is sick.  She would not eat and did not want to even get up all day long.  Her vet made a housecall (can you believe that) and recommended that we take her to the emergency vet for an ultrasound. So David, Dad, Sierra and I all loaded up in the car and off to the doggie hospital we went. After a 2 hour battery of tests, the doctor said that she seemed fine to him, the x-ray showed nothing that was obvious, and to just keep an eye on her over the weekend. We went to check out, and the bill was $134.  I was thrilled, as other visits to the Pet ER have been over $500.  When Dad heard the total, he said, “A hundred and thirty four dollars!  They don’t even know what’s wrong with her!  I don’t think you should have to pay unless they f... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=948674 Sat, 13 Oct 2007 13:48:59 +0100 948674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=947517&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F12%2Fkeeping-our-brains-healthy%2F Dad and I are going to a monthly meeting of Veterans today for the first time.  My hope is that he will enjoy talking with people about the days he does remember. The topic for today’s speaker is “Keeping Your Brain Healthy”.  How appropriate for our first Veterans Fellowship meeting. I reminded Dad that we were going when he got up to let Comeer out this morning, but he had forgotten.  He has been very exicted about going all 12 times I have told him about it! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=947517 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 15:00:51 +0100 947517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=943193&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F11%2Ffirst-the-dogfood-now-this%2F When it was discovered that there was tainted dogfood a few months back, Dad was obsessed.  He checked every bag of food and every box of treats at least 20 times, just to make sure his sweet dogs Comeer, Lola and Sierra were safe. Now, there is apparently some recalled hamburger and Chicken Pot Pies.  Dad is writing down all the brands of meat to make sure we are not poisoned, either. Now that I think about it, he was a little more concerned about the dogfood.   At least his priorities are in order!   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=943193 Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:32:59 +0100 943193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=939982&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F10%2Fi-am-a-lucky-caregiver%2F It’s October 10th, and I was bitten by a mosquito last night.  Dad had the screen door open and one must have come in the house to get me.  Remember this: http://knowitalz.com/blog/2007/09/10/this-bites/ Anyway, I told Dad that if there were one mosquito left in Forsyth County, it would find me. “That’s because you are the sweetest girl in Forsyth County!” He said. Alzheimer’s or no Alzheimer’s, I feel very lucky to have my loving Dad. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=939982 Wed, 10 Oct 2007 11:57:35 +0100 939982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=937261&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F09%2Fone-of-many-talents%2F Whenever we go to the grocery store, Dad wants to push the grocery cart.  Whenever he rushes ahead of me to get to the line of carts before I do he says, “This is one of my many talents.” “You have hundreds of talents.” I always reassure him. Last night we went to Wal-Mart and Dad pushed the cart all the way back to the return cart corral in the parking lot.  He also returned one that a thoughtless customer had left on the wrong side of the fence. Maybe that should be his part-time job!  He could push carts around all day and get paid for doing something he enjoys! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=937261 Tue, 09 Oct 2007 13:37:11 +0100 937261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=934139&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F08%2Fmy-glasses-work-in-his-pocket%2F On Friday, Dad got out of the shower around 1:00p.m. and said that he was feeling a little dizzy.  I gave him the pill he occasionally for dizziness, and immediately noticed that he had a really bloodshot eye. Well the combination of being dizzy and his bloody eye, made me think a doctor’s visit was in order.  So off we went to our wonderful Primary care doctor, who squeezes Dad in for most minor emergencies. Dad’s diagnosis was: a subconjunctival hematoma, which basically means unexplained bloody eye.  At least it’s just a $15 co-pay. Anyway, to the funny part:  Dad lost his eyeglasses about 4 months ago, and when he loses something, he just freaks out.  So since I got contacts about 6 months ago, I don’t wear my glasses anymore, so I just gave him mine.  ... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=934139 Mon, 08 Oct 2007 13:33:02 +0100 934139 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=933238&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F07%2Ffun-time-getting-exercise%2F Dad would not get up at the when we attempted the 7:30 a.m. wake up call he needed in order to join us for the Alzheimer’s Association’s ”Memory Walk”.  The night before he said, David and I pretty much figured that Dad we would not willingly get up that early, so we pre-arranged for a friend to stay with Dad from 8:30-11-30am. By the time David and I got back from the walk, he was still fast asleep. Our fine city of Winston-Salem raised nearly $25,000 at the walk yesterday.  Not bad for a city of 185,000 people, I’d say!  And we still have until the end of the month to raise more money. I was glad to go, and got to see some friends from my support groups, the Adult Day Center where Dad “volunteers”, and met some new caregivers that I invited t... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=933238 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 17:34:00 +0100 933238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=932163&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F06%2Fforgot%2F Off to the Memory walk, late. I forgot to set alarm.  How appropriate.   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=932163 Sat, 06 Oct 2007 12:39:01 +0100 932163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=928990&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F05%2Falzheimers-memory-walk%2F Tomorrow will be my first ever Alzheimer’s “Memory Walk”.  I have managed to raise about $500.00 to go toward finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and to raise an awareness of the need to find a cure and FAST! I will be walking symbolically tomorrow, as I have been walking through this journey every day since July 14, 2003 when my sweet Mom passed away, and I started caring for my Dad. I asked my Dad if he wanted to go with me to walk with my “volunteer” friends in the walk to cure Alzheimer’s disease. “Sure,” he said, “Then maybe I won’t get it!”  And all I could think was, “Maybe I won’t get it!”   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=928990 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 12:37:36 +0100 928990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=926374&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F04%2Fnew-profession%2F Here in North Carolina, they have been offering license plates with a symbol to the left and 4 numbers on them for about a year now.  You can order your license plate to have a symbol for everything from Breast Cancer Awareness to Protect the Waterfowl to NASCAR drivers’ logos. Last night, Dad and I saw one that had the word Litter with the Circle and Slash through it (No Litter).  He said, “I wonder if that guy is a street sweeper?” “If that guy is a street sweeper, I want to change jobs.  He is driving a VOLVO!” I said. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=926374 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:47:42 +0100 926374 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=923827&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F03%2Fso-thats-why%2F Katie bought little Timmy a new chair called Bumbo Baby Sitter that is sort of like a booster seat, but she can just set him down anywhere. So, she was counting out Dad’s pills for the week, and she put Timmy in his seat on the table in front of Dad.  They both laughed and cooed for ten straight minutes.  Then, Dad mentioned to Katie that he thought Timmy could get out of that seat and someone should be watching him at all times. Katie told him that she does not leave him alone in the seat that an adult is always keeping an eye on the baby. “That’s why I moved in here, to keep an eye on my baby, right, Kath?” Right Dad. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=923827 Wed, 03 Oct 2007 12:01:49 +0100 923827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=919169&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F02%2Fonce-a-year%2F Today is senior day at the Dixie Classic Fair.  Katie took Dad last year, and he really enjoyed the watching the pig races and the looking at the county’s largest squash.  This year, they are letting the aides of seniors in free, too.  What a great idea! Anyway, it reminded me of a saying that my Mom used to tell my sisters and me as we were growing up, when one of us would would whine, “That’s not fair!” She would say, “Fair only comes once a year and that’s the Dixie Classic!” (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=919169 Tue, 02 Oct 2007 13:19:04 +0100 919169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=918173&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F10%2F01%2Fa-big-heart%2F David’s 12 year-old daughter, Jessica, is with us for a long weekend since they have a teacher workday today.  She was asked by her Science teacher to do an extra-credit project about the heart. Well, Jessica knows that Dad has an ICD (Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator).  She asked if she could show her classmates what has saved her Pop-Pop’s life a few times. We went to the craft store and made an exceptionally nice cross section of the human heart, with paperclips connecting the ICD to the heart.  Very nice extra credit project if I do say so myself.  So in the middle of all the modeling clay and mess, Dad looked at Jessica and asked, “Why don’t you just take me into your class and show them the real thing?”  That would have been easier. (Source:... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=918173 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:19:11 +0100 918173 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=915478&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F30%2Fall-by-myself%2F Katie and Timmy took my Dad to an Arts fesitval yesterday, and I had the entire afternoon to myself.  I mostly drove around in my convertible and listened to the radio.  I did a little shopping, and played with Lola and Sierra (dogs).  I even had control of the TV remote for a short time. Paying Katie to take him on Saturday was the best $50 I could have spent.  It was lovely. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=915478 Sun, 30 Sep 2007 16:10:12 +0100 915478 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=914584&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F29%2Fits-still-exercise%2F Dad was tired yesterday and asked if it was okay for him to take a nap instead of going to physical therapy. “Sure”, I said, “As long as Katie can get you to do some exercise later this afternoon.” Katie said, “He’ll try to talk me out of exercising and going to get a piece of chocolate pie.” “This is my favorite kind of exercise”, Dad said as he made the motion from fork to mouth. Mine, too.  (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=914584 Sat, 29 Sep 2007 14:23:21 +0100 914584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=912312&cid=t_114072_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F09%2Fbook-elder-rage-or-take-my-father.html When my friends call me, to talk about their problems taking care of their parents, who need help but refuse help, I am going to advise them after this to read Jacqueline Marcell's compassionate and humorous book, "Elder Rage, or Take My Father...Please!". The book, which is about "how to survive caring for an aging parent" asks "Are you at your wit's end with elder care, and coping with an elderly loved one who...Makes unreasonable demands, wanting all of your time?Is experiencing memory loss, dementia/Alzheimer's?Has become depressed, manipulative, distrustful, or hostile?Refuses any mention of caregiving or eldercare help?"The list sounded very familiar to me. It reads just like the things my friends say when they call me for help or for a listening ear.A look at the chapter titles had ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=912312 Fri, 28 Sep 2007 23:20:00 +0100 912312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=912315&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F28%2Fi-was-never-gone%2F I told Dad we were having dinner with Beth and Gusty tomorrow night. He said, “Wow, it’s been a long time sine I’ve seen them!” That is what I meant when I wrote: “Hopefully Dad will not even realize I was gone!” the other day. Maybe next time I will not worry at all! Yeah right. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=912315 Fri, 28 Sep 2007 14:44:35 +0100 912315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=907207&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F27%2Fperfect-baby%2F Katie took Dad to his physical therapy class yesterday and Timmy (her baby) cried almost  the whole way to the hospital. She was worried that it would really bother Dad, since she was driving and could not console the baby. When they got into therapy, one of the nurses saw Timmy laughing and remarked what a cute baby he is. Then Dad said, “And he never cries!” This is kind of the memory loss that we don’t mind, losing the BAD ones!   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=907207 Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:41:32 +0100 907207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=906328&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F26%2Fmountain-mama%2F Well, I am home from my lighting job West Virginia and first let me apologize to you for not entering a blog yesterday.  I was working in Huntington, WV and had NO INTERNET ACCESS.  I had 193 emails this morning, and that is just since Monday!  Those of you who wrote to make sure I was okay, thank you.  It’s nice to know how much you all have come to care about Dad and me. When I got home last night, Dad and Beth were watching the History Channel and Dad asked how my meeting went.  I guess Beth told him that was where I was last night, maybe I can get he to blog about Gusty or Beth to “guest blog” adventures (by the time I got home at 11:00pm we were all ready to get to sleep, so I have not heard the tales from Beth and Gusty’s adventures with Lyman yet). We... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=906328 Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:12:33 +0100 906328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=894351&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F24%2Fgood-plan%2F My friends Gusty and Beth are caring for my Dad tonight while I go to West Virginia for a quick overnight job.  My sister also offered, as well and another friend, Tori. Dad heard me talking about the trip, and rather than make him uneasy, I just told him he was coming with me. Katie (CNA) will be here from 8:00-5:00 today, then Gusty and Beth will take him out to dinner, and then hang out with him (I suggested Scrabble - remember zoopants?  If not, its a funny one: http://knowitalz.com/blog/2007/04/23/better-late-than-never/ ). Same deal tomorrow, except I will be home by 5:00 and hopefully Dad will not even realize I was gone! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=894351 Mon, 24 Sep 2007 11:42:00 +0100 894351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=893436&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F23%2Fhelp-kathys-future%2F The Alzheimer’s Association is trying to raise $1 million for Alzheimer’s research by the end of September.  The Harrah’s Foundation is matching dollar for dollar each contribution made before September 30th. When I donated, it linked me to a site that showed me that the company I work for matches the gift as well.  So it turned $200 into $600.  I wish I could do that. http://www.actionalz.org/ I know that most of you are caregivers and have limited funds, but even $5 could be turned into $10 or $15.  And maybe you could send an email to friends and family that have money because they are not caregivers, and ask them to donate! This is totally selfish since I feel sure I will get Alzheimer’s myself and I need a cure! And Fast! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=893436 Sun, 23 Sep 2007 12:20:17 +0100 893436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=892993&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F22%2Fenough-said%2F Dad asked me where his car was yesterday.  It has been gone for a couple of years. “I’m having it washed.” I said. “Thanks” he said. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=892993 Sat, 22 Sep 2007 15:30:12 +0100 892993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=891975&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F21%2Falways-early%2F I was talking with a friend of mine from my support group on the phone this week, and when we were hanging up, she said, “See you at the 12:30 support group!” 12:30?  I thought.  Hmmm.  I thought it was at noon. So I called the lady that runs the group and she told me that when we first met in 2004, I had mentioned to her that I was always late for everything, and that was one thing that stressed me out as a caregiver.  So she told me the meeting was at noon, so I would not be late. She pulled one over on me, just like I do with Dad! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=891975 Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:59:24 +0100 891975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=886517&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F20%2Fmoms-blog%2F My bi-focals are perfect My dentures fit just fine My hearing aid is perfect But, Lord I miss my mind! This was a saying that my Mom had in a frame on her wall at home for as long as I can remember.  I thought since both my sisters and I have blogged here at KnowItAlz, it was Mom’s turn (albeit from Heaven).  She cared for Dad for 5 years before she passed away, and this saying just popped into my head this morning.  Thanks, Mom!   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=886517 Thu, 20 Sep 2007 11:41:50 +0100 886517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=885538&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F19%2F281%2F Katie took Dad for his physical therapy yesterday and asked him if he needed to go to the restroom (or ‘make a pitstop’ as Dad calls it) before they left to go to therapy.  We do this as part of his every 3 hour trip to the bathroom schedule we are using to keep him continent.    “I guess that would be better than going on the way to therapy!” he joked.   If you want to know more about Dad’s “reverse potty training” click here:  http://knowitalz.com/blog/2007/05/08/too-funny-literally/   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=885538 Wed, 19 Sep 2007 15:51:44 +0100 885538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=880422&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F18%2Fokahoma-city-idaho%2F Dad and I went to Beth’s house last night and he “met” her sister, Ann for the “first time”.  They have really probably met twice in the last year, so I would not really expect him to remember her. She lives in Oklahoma. In 1953, Dad was drafted into the army and was stationed in Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas. He also tells people he was in service in Texas, but with my EXTENSIVE knowledge of his military career (trying for 3 years to ‘reconstruct’ his discharge papers so we can get his VA benefits since Dad lost his copy) I know he was not actually stationed in Texas. Anytime anyone mentions any of those states, they get a full account of his 2 years in the military. Well, Ann mentioned a few things about Oklahoma throughout the night, and ... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=880422 Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:35:36 +0100 880422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=876218&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F17%2Fsex-in-the-middle-east%2F Dad, David and I traveled to Charlottesville, VA this weekend for me to to a lighting job at the NBC station up there.   Dad sat in the studio and read the newspaper, and enjoyed watching David and me relight the news set.  When the time came for the anchor woman to sit at the desk for the final focus of the lights, Dad was sitting in the chair next to her and they started to talk about Iraq and the middle east. “It’s all the different sects that are causing the trouble”, she remarked. Later, David remarked that the anchorwoman really took a liking to Dad. “You were talking about sex for a long while.” David said. “Sex?!” said my Dad.  “No, SECTS, Dad, the different religious sects in the middle east.” “You had me scared ther... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=876218 Mon, 17 Sep 2007 13:42:52 +0100 876218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=873968&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F15%2Fsuns-and-daughters%2F We were heading home from dinner the other night, and we live west of the city, so we always drive into a beautiful sunset. “Wow that is a bright sun!” I said. “And an even BRIGHTER daughter.” said my Dad as he put his arm on my shoulder. Things like that make me happy to be Dad’s caregiver. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=873968 Sat, 15 Sep 2007 11:44:59 +0100 873968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=870750&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F14%2Fwait-wait%2F Last night the National Public Radio show “Wait! Wait! Don’t Tell Me” was recorded in front of a live audience right here at Wake Forest University.  My Mom used to work at the local NPR station, so Dad has always been a big fan of anything they do, and we decided to load up and go see it. So, the show started at 7:30pm and it was so crowded, the line to get in was forming before 6pm.  Not to mention the parking space situation!  Dad asked us where we were going about 10 times between the car and the auditorium. Breathless, we all glared at the 50-step staircase we had to ascend at the end of our hike from the car to our seats when Dad said, “Wait! Wait! Don’t Kill me!” Then a very nice lady showed us the elevator.  Thank goodness! (Source: KnowIt... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=870750 Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:24:42 +0100 870750 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=868394&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F13%2Fdad-is-a-tv-star%2F The local FOX station came over to interview me last night for a piece they are doing on my Insurance Company/Medicare appeal for my Dad’s home health benefit. The focus of the story is the hours and hours it takes the caregiver to file and follow up on these appeals.  Heck, it took me 3 hours sometimes just to talk to the right person at the insurance company!  Not to mention the hundreds of forms and papers that have to be filled out. My part in the story was that I am the 24/7 caregiver to my Dad, have a full time paying job, and a family of my own.  I should not have to spend 100+ hours of my time appealling the denial of a covered benefit on behalf of my 79 year old Dad. We told Dad that they were doing a story about people who work at home, and they asked him many questio... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=868394 Thu, 13 Sep 2007 13:11:26 +0100 868394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=867494&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F12%2Fno-stuffing-today%2F Dad went to the adult day center again yesterday, and according to the administrator is taking his “volunteer” duties in stride. He keeps asking if they have any envelopes to stuff today (that is the type of volunteering he and Katie have done in the past.)  The aides just tell him to spend a few minutes talking with  the “old folks” to cheer them up, and they can do the stuffing later.  Then he gets to talking, and forgets all about the envelopes. He has gotten chummy with a group of men who are in about the same stage of Alzheimer’s as he is, and they just talk about the good old days for 2-3 hours at a time. When I asked Dad how his volunteering went, he said, “We just stuffed envelopes all afternoon.” (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=867494 Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:16:22 +0100 867494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=862267&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F11%2Fhow-about-500mg%2F We went to Dad’s neurologist yesterday to check up on his switch from Aricept to Razadyne. I told the doctor that there was a slight improvement early on, but that it had leveled off.  He then suggested we go from 16mg to 24mg per day. “What is Razadyne for again?” asked my Dad. “Memory.” I said. “In that case, can I have 100mg a day?” he asked with a big grin. His doctor just chuckled and told him we’d try the 24mg and see how that goes!   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=862267 Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:51:33 +0100 862267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=858697&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F10%2Fthis-bites%2F I am a mosquito magnet.  I seem to get a bit every time I go outside! Well, I got a few bites last night and I woke up this morning and my hands were itchy, all swollen up and I had hives!  HIVES! I had to get Dad up to go to the doctor with me (not fun) and the whole way over he kept saying “I have not been bitten by a mosquito since 1945!”  He must have said it 20 times! It is, however, true.  He used to work at Johnson & Johnson in New Jersey during World War II and was a tape tester to find the best repellant for the troops over in mosquito infested Asia. He was paid $1.15 per hour to stick his arm in a cage with thousands of mosquitoes and see which of the prototype repellants placed on strips on his arm worked the best.  He must have built up an immunity, so he ... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=858697 Mon, 10 Sep 2007 15:23:16 +0100 858697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=853289&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F09%2Fflounder-fingers%2F When we were in Charleston, SC last week, we tried to eat a lot of seafood (it is very hard to find fresh fish 5 hours inland in NC where we live) since it is sooooo good. We went to a restaurant near the beach, and David ordered an appetizer, grouper fingers. Well, Dad basically eats four things: grilled chicken, hamburger with grilled onions, rueben, or fish ‘n chips.  Remember this one: http://knowitalz.com/blog/2007/03/28/fish-n-chips-n-trouble/ ?? When the grouper fingers came out, Dad asked what they were, and David told him they were “grouper fingers”.  “I do not like grouper”, Dad pouted. I pointed out the window to a pretty girl on the boardwalk, and Dad asked if he should go ask for a date. I then offered him a “flounder finger”.  He ... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=853289 Sun, 09 Sep 2007 12:07:05 +0100 853289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=852211&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F08%2Fhot-nurses%2F Sometimes if I cannot get Dad to comply with my wishes (like stop scratching an infected wound, arguing with me about his eating too much, or having to get up early) I jokingly threaten him with being sent to a nursing home if he does not comply with my wishes. “If the nurses are pretty, I’ll go willingly!” he said yesterday. Now I’ll have to threaten him with going to a home with ALL MALE nurses! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=852211 Sat, 08 Sep 2007 13:26:07 +0100 852211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=848621&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F07%2Fcrap-happens%2F After dinner last night, David could see that Dad was struggling with the TV tray. “Just leave it, Lyman” he said, “I’ll put that away for you.” “Boy, you sure are lucky.  You don’t have to do crap around here!” I joked to my father. “That is one thing I do have to do.” he said. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=848621 Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:31:20 +0100 848621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=846044&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F06%2Fhyman-latfields%2F Dad’s name is Lyman Hatfield.  There is a restaurant in Charleston called Hymans. Dad referred to it as “Hyman Latfield’s” every time we passed the restaurant (it was right on the way to the hotel). Good to know Dad’s brain is still processing funny and clever! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=846044 Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:17:16 +0100 846044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=842043&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F05%2Fselective-alzheimers%2F Dad had a piece of chocolate cake for dessert about 7:30 last night. When I saw him at 8:30, he asked if the cake on the counter was for dessert. When I told him he had already eaten a piece of the cake, he said, “I do not remember eating any dessert.” “That is selective Alzheimer’s“  I joked, as I cut a second (small) piece and smiled. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=842043 Wed, 05 Sep 2007 11:41:19 +0100 842043 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=842044&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F05%2Fmega-millions%2F On the trip to Charleston, we kept seeing the Mega Millions Lottery Billboards, and Dad would comment how nice it would be to win. David said if he won $15 million, he would take an extra week a year off work. I said I would never work another minute. Dad said he would work on February 29th only. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=842044 Wed, 05 Sep 2007 01:30:14 +0100 842044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=838167&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F03%2Fhappy-labor-day%2F I asked Dad if he knew how long it had been since he had worked   (we were speaking of Labor Day). “Day before yesterday.” He said. Really it’s been 8 years, but who’s counting? (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=838167 Mon, 03 Sep 2007 21:00:33 +0100 838167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=836963&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F02%2Fhello-from-vacation%2F We arrived in Charleston yeterday afternoon.  After 4.5 hours in the car with Dad, there is lots of blog material, so get ready to hear about the trip for the next few days!   We were driving around 80 mph down the Interstate, when a bright red Ferrari whizzed past us at about 95 or so.   “Great!” I said, “I’m sure a state trooper would rather give him a ticket than a little silver Honda packed full of luggage an a senior citizen!”   “And me.” said my Dad.   David did not laugh as hard as Dad and I did! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=836963 Sun, 02 Sep 2007 17:24:49 +0100 836963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=836504&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F09%2F01%2Fvacation-bound%2F We are heading off to Charleston, SC for 4 days.  It was hard getting Dad up and ready early, but maybe he will sleep in the car. If he does, David and I will be spared the “These are the WORST drivers I have ever seen.  They must have gotten their license in the mail!” for 5 the entire five hours in the car. Thankfully Dad does not remember what a scary driver HE was! Here’s a joke that comes to mind: An old woman called her husband in a panic on his cell phone.  Knowing that he is driving home from work, she wanted to warn him of a dangerous situation she heard about on the television. “Herman, be careful, there is a report of a car driving the wrong way on I-77!” “One?  Hell, there’s hundreds of them!”    (Source: KnowItAlz.com Bl... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=836504 Sat, 01 Sep 2007 14:26:30 +0100 836504 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=835600&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F31%2Fmia-culpa%2F First let me know that I am sorry to those of you who read KnowItAlz in the mornings.  It is 3:27pm eastern and this is the first time I have sat down at the computer all day. Katie, Dad and Arline went to dinner together for the first time.  Dad does not remember, Arline hurt her leg trying to get in the jeep (but otherwise had a good time), and Katie was glad to have a new person to join in the conversation.  She was also glad when 8:01pm arrived. They went to dinner, Borders Book Store and by the condo to see the baby.  Arline was home by 7:30 and Dad by 8:00. When I teased Dad and asked him if there was a good night kiss he said, “I think Katie would get mad if I kissed her.” (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=835600 Fri, 31 Aug 2007 19:37:24 +0100 835600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=831151&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F30%2Fspit-happens%2F Katie (CNA) and I are always tring to think up new ways to get Dad up in the morning.  If I am not here and Katie does it, I will call from work until he gets up and answers the phone.  Katie hides, in case he is grumpy.  Usually, we can let him sleep in untill 11:00 or so, but some days we have doctor’s appointments, volunteering, day center, etc. Today he was scheduled for another afternoon of “volunteering” at the day center.  So, this morning, I told him we were going to Atlanta (to see my oldest sister, Nancy) and so he got up, took a shower, shaved, got dressed, had breakfast and then looked at me and matter-of-factly said, “Have you packed my pills for Atlanta?” Now this conversation was an hour and a half ago!  I thought, ‘What ever will I d... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=831151 Thu, 30 Aug 2007 11:50:09 +0100 831151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=828607&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F29%2Fnow-thats-what-i-call-a-plan%2F I love it when a good plan comes together (rarely in my case). Yesterday I had to: 1) Work my full time job from 8:00am-5:00pm 2) Return a borrowed hospital bed to the Cancer center for a friend in my support group 3) Haircut for Dad (it was Tuesday you know) see Kathy’s Time Machine 4) Oil Change for Car (going on vacation in 2 days) 5) Dinner with friends at 5:30 6) Alzheimer’s Support Group from 7:00-9:00pm Now as any of you caregivers know, that kind of day requires a miracle to actually work out.  Here is how it went: 1) Worked all day 2) Asked friend Gusty to return hospital bed 3) Katie (CNA) took Dad for haircut at 4:00 and met us at restaurant at 5:30 4) Katie got oil change while Dad got his haircut 5) Met friends for dinner with Dad, Katie and little Timmy 6) Left dinn... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=828607 Wed, 29 Aug 2007 12:21:02 +0100 828607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=828608&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F28%2Fhello-stranger%2F For most of the ten years David and I have been together, he has spent a lot of time out of town because of the nature of his work (he builds news sets for local TV stations all over the country and custom log homes). That was the best way to get Dad to move in with me.  I just told him that David was gone so much, that I really needed him to stay here with me so I would not be alone all the time.  Worked like a charm.  Well, David has been traveling less and less in order to help me with Dad, but whenever he comes home from work (30 minutes away) Dad will say, “Hello, stranger”, just as if he had been gone for days or weeks.  “Where was your trip this time?” Dad asks.  David just plays along saying, “Arkansas is beautiful this time of year.” or &#... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=828608 Tue, 28 Aug 2007 13:55:54 +0100 828608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=824819&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F27%2Fdad-is-taking-a-day-off%2F We are going to Charleston, SC for the Labor Day weekend.  Dad, David and I were talking about the trip during dinner last night and I told David that I am off work on Friday as well as Monday and Tuesday, so I hoped he (David) could get Friday off, too. “I can take Friday off.” said my Dad, who has not worked since 2001. Well good.  Now if I can just get David to take the day off…. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=824819 Mon, 27 Aug 2007 13:42:42 +0100 824819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=823104&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F26%2Fdad-is-a-winner%2F   Top Alzheimer’s Site Awards from HealthCentral.com The Alzheimer’s and caregiving experts have spoken! KnowItAlz.com has been honored as one of the five “Best of the Internet” sites dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia as determined by the expert team at HealthCentral. These sites include small Web sites and individual blogs and were chosen based on their candid and informative content. In giving these awards, they hope to recognize the individuals and organizations who share their vision in providing comprehensive, interactive and personal healthcare advice. HealthCentral.com would like to congratulate their 2007 winners and sincerely thank them for producing influential sites in the Alzheimer’s community.  And I was just writing this blog so I di... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=823104 Sun, 26 Aug 2007 11:08:58 +0100 823104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=822388&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F25%2Fa-new-girl-every-thursday%2F I just talked with my friend, Nancy (Arline’s daughter) from my caregiver support group and we were making plans for our parents’ next “date” this Thursday. Since Dad has started “volunteering” at the adult day center two afternoons a week, Katie is trading out her time, and working 2 evenings a week. Well, Nancy and I got to talking and decided that this Thursday Katie can pick them both up at the day center and take them out to dinner together.  This accomplishes FIVE important things: 1) I get to date my boyfriend, David 2) Nancy gets a free evening 3) Dad gets to meet a “new” girl (even though this will be their 7th date) 4) Katie gets a free dinner and someone new to talk with and have Dad talk with 5) Arline gets to see my Dad again (w... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=822388 Sat, 25 Aug 2007 16:31:20 +0100 822388 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=821694&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F24%2Fno-moonshine-just-wine-for-dad%2F Dad was not able to join me on my job in Kentucky yesterday, because at 6:00am when I tried to get him up, it was evident this was not happening (you know what I mean). So, I called Katie (CNA), and bless her heart she came right over to stay with him.  When 8:00pm rolled around, she was ready yo get home to her family, so she dropped Dad with Beth and Gusty (our best friends) for a glass or two of wine until I could get back. Their five-year-old, Chloe, asked my Dad what “Sea legs” were, having heard Gusty and his Dad talking about getting their sea legs back. Dad said, “They are what comes between ‘B’ legs and ‘D’ legs.” Chloe just laughed and laughed.  I think being around the little kids really makes Dad happier (of course,  it may hav... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=821694 Fri, 24 Aug 2007 15:27:05 +0100 821694 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=818959&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F23%2Fi-hope-we-make-it-back%2F Dad and I are going to Kentucky today to look at a lighting job. As many of you know, there are many gun-totin’ McCoys up there, so wish us luck. See you tomorrow (I hope!) Kathy (maybe I should change my last name) Hatfield  If you have no idea what I am talking about, click here: http://knowitalz.com/blog/hatfields-and-mccoy-feud/ (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=818959 Thu, 23 Aug 2007 12:40:47 +0100 818959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=815386&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F22%2Falzheimers-schmalzheimers%2F I was in one of my caregiver support groups yesterday, and we were talking about how when people drop in and out of our loved ones’ lives, they seem to think there is nothing wrong with them.  I can’t tell you how many times people have said to me, “Are you sure he has Alzheimer’s?  He seems fine to me.”  This “diagnosis” after spending 5 minutes with him, in which THEY are doing most of the talking! Many of the other caregivers agreed they hear this from friends, co-workers, and even family! Here is my idea.  When someone says that from now on I should say, “You know I think you’re right.  Would you like to take him to dinner one night this week?  I am sure he would love to spend some time catching up with you now that he is bett... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=815386 Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:59:59 +0100 815386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=814373&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F21%2Ftastes-like-chicken%2F My sister Susan had Dad over for dinner last night. She always tells me what she is making for dinner so we can see if Dad can remember when he gets home.  I knew they were having pork chops, so when he got home I asked what was for dinner and he said, “Pork chops and they were delicious.”  I was so excited, I sent Sue an instant message that he remembered the chops! This is the instant message I got from Susan this morning:  He complimented me on my dinner when we got to Elkvue (my street).   I asked him what he was complimenting me on. He said Chicken. I think he just guesses and hopes for the best! (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=814373 Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:31:36 +0100 814373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809786&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F20%2Fdad-is-an-old-timer%2F I made some brownies last night.  David is not a very patient man when it comes to dessert, but I told him if he wants brownies, it takes 28 minutes. Every five minutes (like a four year old) David is asking “How much longer?” “When you hear bong-bong-bong-bong,” I said referring to the timer, “the brownies will be done” “Bong-bong-bong-bong” said my Dad. What a smarty pants. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809786 Mon, 20 Aug 2007 12:04:28 +0100 809786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809787&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F19%2Fmissing-alert%2F Please click on this link to see if you may have seen or heard something about Shirley Mac Hunt.  She has been missing for 61 days now.   Thanks! http://www.theyaremissed.org/ncma/gallery/ncmaprofile_all.php?A200705392S   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809787 Sun, 19 Aug 2007 12:02:34 +0100 809787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809788&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F18%2Fplease-register%2F Soon we will be adding some additional features to this site.  I want to be able to share the information I have learned about caregiving and dementia over the last three years with all of you, and future caregivers. Don’t worry, I will still have the daily Blog showing the humorous life and times of my Dad and his Alzheimer’s.  Namenda, Razadyne, Exelon and Aricept are great, but humor is still the best medicine for our family. I would like to make sure all of you are registered on this blog (Just click on Register down on the right under the heading that says Meta) so I can let you know when new caregiver information is available.  Thanks, and if any of you have ideas about information we can put on the site that will be helpful for you and other dementia caregive... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809788 Sat, 18 Aug 2007 23:08:06 +0100 809788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809789&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F17%2Fkeeping-him-young%2F Dad and Katie went to “volunteer” at Senior Services Adult Day Center yesterday.  The people that run the center tell lots of people they are “volunteers”.  They even pay a couple of them, and the spouse or caregiver gives the money back to the center the next day.  This makes our loved ones feel they are not “patients” of the adult daycare. The guise of volunteering was the only way I could get Dad to check out the place, as I want him to get used to going while he can still form habits.  That way Katie can take him to the center some weekdays, and she will give me some evening and weekend respite in place of those hours. My friends Patty and Jean have been encouraging me to bring Dad for well over a year, but Patty threatened to stop speaking to m... KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809789 Fri, 17 Aug 2007 11:40:20 +0100 809789 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809790&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F16%2Fthe-dryer-is-innocent%2F Usually, we lose our socks in the dryer.  It is a great phenomenon of life.  Twos socks go in - one comes out. Well, last night, Dad was taking off his socks and shoes, and walked in to my office to ask me if I had seen his other sock. “I was taking off my shoes and socks, and now I can only find one sock.” Dad said as he held it up for me to see. “Look on your foot”, I said. “Oh, my,” he said, “I have really lost it!” “And I found it!” I joked.     (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809790 Thu, 16 Aug 2007 16:52:42 +0100 809790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809791&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F15%2Fgoes-around-comes-around%2F Last night David and I went on a date.  Remember Arlene?  If not, http://knowitalz.com/blog/2007/05/31/alzheimers-x2-fun/ is the backstory. Well, Nancy mentioned that she had a meeting and a sitter for her Mom last night and asked me if would I like to bring my Dad over for a couple of hours.  ARE YOU KIDDING? YES! So Dad had a wonderful time, and I got a nice date with my sweetie. Moral of the story: Take care of people and they will take care of you!    (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809791 Wed, 15 Aug 2007 17:24:43 +0100 809791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809792&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F14%2Fold-sailing-buddy%2F Dad and Susan went out to dinner last night, and were driving west on the interstate.  There was a group of cumulus clouds in the sky and Dad said that someone in the southwest would be getting some rain. Susan tried to correct him (but Dad knows the weather like he is a meteorologist) by telling him they were heading west, not southwest.  He promptly pointed to the sun that was setting just to their right and said, “That is west, we are heading SOUTHWEST”. Susan called him a modern day Marco Polo. Dad joked that he and Marco used to sail together in the old days.  “I did all the work, and he took all the glory!” he said. (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809792 Tue, 14 Aug 2007 13:45:30 +0100 809792 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=809793&cid=t_114072_137_f&fid=36022&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknowitalz.com%2Fblog%2F2007%2F08%2F13%2Fknitting-huh%2F I am enrolled in two continuing education classes at Salem College coming up in September.  I have had hundreds of KnowItAlz readers tell me that I should consider putting my stories into a book.  This could enable people who are caregivers, but don’t use the computer, to get a laugh or two. So, anyway I am taking a class on self publishing and how to find an agent/editor. Dad overheard me talking about it and asked me what kind of class I was taking.  I did not want to explain what I was writing a book about (since he does not know he has Alzheimer’s, so how would I know about caregiving) so I just blurted out “knitting”! Now he wants to take knitting classes with me.   (Source: KnowItAlz.com Blog) KnowItAlz.com Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=809793 Mon, 13 Aug 2007 18:41:27 +0100 809793