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Showering Tips for Dementia Care: Simplify and Support Personal Hygiene
Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday tasks, including maintaining personal hygiene. Showering can be especially challenging for individuals with dementia, but with the right approach, it can be made easier and more comfortable for both the person and their caregiver. Establish a Routine Creating a consistent showering routine can help reduce confusion and anxiety for those with dementia. Aim to schedule showers at the same time every other day to provide a sense of stability and control. Most doctors agree daily showering is not necessary or healthy for the skin. Simplify the Process Break down the showering process into simple, easy-to-follow…
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The Dr. Said ‘Dementia’: Essential Next Steps for Patients and Caregivers
Hearing the word "dementia" from your doctor can be overwhelming. Your mind races with questions: Is there a cure? How will this affect our lives? What can be done to slow it down? It's natural to feel lost with so many unanswered questions, but you're not alone. Understanding Dementia First, know that dementia is a broad term that encompasses various diseases, including Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's and more. While there is currently no cure for most types, understanding your specific diagnosis can help you and your loved ones prepare for the journey ahead. Let me help first with some basics. Dementia is terminal in all forms except one, which is termed…
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A Fun and Insightful Interview with Betsy Wurzel on Chatting with Betsy
Betsy Wurzel Chatting with Betsy on Passionate World Talk Radio A Fun Interview with Betsy Wurzel on Passionate World Talk Radio Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially when they’re live on the radio. However, my recent interview with Betsy Wurzel on her show, Chatting with Betsy on Passionate World Talk Radio, was a completely different experience—fun, engaging, and incredibly rewarding. Connecting Through Caregiving Betsy and I immediately bonded over our shared experiences as caregivers and our Christian faith. Betsy has been in the caregiving trenches just like me, and her passion for helping others shines through every episode. Her show reaches audiences in 174 countries, making it a fantastic resource for…
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8 Fun Ways to Keep Your Brain Sharp and Healthy
A healthy brain is key to overall well-being, and keeping your mind sharp can be both fun and rewarding. Here are 8 enjoyable ways to enhance your cognitive function: 1.Listen to Something New: Engage your brain with podcasts or audiobooks that introduce new ideas and topics. 2. Write It Down: Journaling or blogging helps you process your thoughts and stimulates creativity. Consider using a guided journal with prompts for extra inspiration. Here’s my favorite journal Write To Remember Full disclosure: I created it. I filled it with the things I like best in a journal, so I’m sure you will like it! It has cream-colored pages to be…
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4 Ideal Places to Live Happy and Healthy in Retirement
As you approach retirement, deciding where to live is one of the most important choices you’ll make. The right environment can significantly impact your happiness, health, and overall quality of life. To help you make an informed decision, consider these four living options that cater to different needs and preferences. Independent Living Facilities Independent living facilities are perfect for seniors who desire a community with people of similar ages and interests but still want their own private space. These communities offer various housing options, such as apartments or condos, and provide shared amenities and organized activities. This setup reduces the risk of senior isolation, allowing for social engagement and a…
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What will my Doctor likely Do If I’m having Memory Problems?
What can I expect my Doctor to do? Going to the doctor can be stressful, especially if you are fearful of the diagnosis. When you are experiencing memory concerns, we can be especially fearful and/or resistant to see the doctor at all. Being prepared and having an idea what to expect, reduces stress and anxiety. I suggest getting a notebook or taking notes on your phone before and during the doctor visit to record information and suggestions the doctor may offer. Information for you to gather in advance will include: complete list of medications along with strength and dosages list all supplements or natural herbs you take a list of…
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Set Hammy Free!
Consider my hamster, Hammy, creative name right? Hammy wants out of his cage more than anything. He looks at me begging with his big, brown, fur-trimmed eyes to puhleeeease let him out. He even makes little whining noises to sound pitiful, hoping to play on my sympathies so he can be released into the wilds of my living room. Hammy thinks if he can get out of his prison, be set free and allowed to roam wherever he wants, he'd be the happiest hamster ever. He doesn't understand why I won't let him out no matter how much he begs. He is oblivious to the danger that would most certainly beset him in…
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7 Stages of Alzheimer’s
What do you do when your mom hand washes your paper plates and tosses your good silverware in the trash? Seem hard to believe? Not if you are a caregiver for a loved one with some form of Dementia. Maybe you are at the beginning of this journey. Perhaps the doctor has just said those horrific words: Dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's Disease and you are still in shock. You may be wondering what treatments are available and what to expect. These diseases affect not only the person afflicted, but also those who are to become caregivers and their families. What exactly is Dementia and how widespread is it? The…
