Ask Me 3 | National Patient Safety Foundation:
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What do I need to do?
Why is it important for me to do this?
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When Medicare Will Pay for Skilled Nursing or Physical Therapy - Howard Gleckman
When Medicare Will Pay for Skilled Nursing or Physical Therapy - Howard Gleckman:
http://howardgleckman.com/author/hgleckman/
Two weeks ago, the government updated the Medicare manual—the
official guidelines for providers. And it has begun an extensive
educational campaign to help them understand the rules. Yet, it is
important that consumers know about this new interpretation as well.
What does this mean? Imagine you have a severe stroke. Before Jimmo,
most people thought Medicare would pay for physical therapy only as
long as that PT was helping you get better. For instance, Medicare would
pay if therapy helped increase the number of steps you could walk
without assistance. Now, Medicare will pay for PT even if it only helps
you maintain your current ability to walk
other restrictions still apply. For instance, Medicare will only pay for skilled nursing care after a patient has been hospitalized for at least three days. And, at least for now, a patient who is in a hospital for observation but has not been formally admitted does not qualify. Medicare will pay for no more than 100 days of skilled care after a hospitalization. And Medicare will not pay for skilled care if needed services can be provided by the patient herself, her family, or by home health aides.
http://howardgleckman.com/author/hgleckman/
Two weeks ago, the government updated the Medicare manual—the
official guidelines for providers. And it has begun an extensive
educational campaign to help them understand the rules. Yet, it is
important that consumers know about this new interpretation as well.
What does this mean? Imagine you have a severe stroke. Before Jimmo,
most people thought Medicare would pay for physical therapy only as
long as that PT was helping you get better. For instance, Medicare would
pay if therapy helped increase the number of steps you could walk
without assistance. Now, Medicare will pay for PT even if it only helps
you maintain your current ability to walk
other restrictions still apply. For instance, Medicare will only pay for skilled nursing care after a patient has been hospitalized for at least three days. And, at least for now, a patient who is in a hospital for observation but has not been formally admitted does not qualify. Medicare will pay for no more than 100 days of skilled care after a hospitalization. And Medicare will not pay for skilled care if needed services can be provided by the patient herself, her family, or by home health aides.
scribes have entered the scene in hundreds of clinics and emergency rooms - NYTimes.com
A Busy Doctor’s Right Hand, Ever Ready to Type - NYTimes.com: Without much fanfare or planning, scribes have entered the scene in hundreds of clinics and emergency rooms. Physicians who use them say they feel liberated from the constant note-taking that modern electronic health records systems demand.
A study
published jointly in October by the American Medical Association and
RAND Corporation found that electronic health records were a major
contributor to physician dissatisfaction, as doctors negotiate a cranky
truce between talking to and examining the patient, and the ceaseless
demands of the computer. And a recent article
in the journal Health Affairs concluded that two-thirds of a primary
care physician’s day was spent on clerical work that could be done by
someone else; among the recommended solutions was the hiring of scribes
A study
published jointly in October by the American Medical Association and
RAND Corporation found that electronic health records were a major
contributor to physician dissatisfaction, as doctors negotiate a cranky
truce between talking to and examining the patient, and the ceaseless
demands of the computer. And a recent article
in the journal Health Affairs concluded that two-thirds of a primary
care physician’s day was spent on clerical work that could be done by
someone else; among the recommended solutions was the hiring of scribes
Hallucinations vs. Delusions , & Confabulations
Hallucinations vs. Delusions in Alzheimer's from http://www.everydayhealth.com/alzheimers/alzheimers-hallucinations-and-delusions.aspx
It is important that Alzheimer's caregivers understand the difference between a hallucination and a delusion. Each of these symptoms can affect your loved one in different ways:
Delusions. Delusions are false beliefs caused by the deterioration of cognitive processes in the brain of the Alzheimer's patient, and are often influenced by misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Patients might think they are being followed, or might accuse a family member of stealing from them or plotting against them.
Hallucinations. These involve false perceptions, and are also caused by changes in the brain due to Alzheimer's. Patients can literally “sense” — see, hear, smell, taste, or feel — something that isn't there. They might see and talk with old friends who aren't there, or watch ships floating through the sky outside the window, or smell foods they enjoyed as a child.
Confabulations are a major annoyance — when listeners take everything at face value, no matter how false their statements. The danger is when banks, adult protective services, police, friends, family, and other listeners take everything our loved ones say at face value and react based on the statements. Know that confabulating is distinct from lying because there is no intent to deceive. The statements can be coherent, internally consistent, and reasonable.
Be aware there are similarities between confabulation and delusions; e.g., both involve unintentional false statements. Realize delusions are frequently observed in Alzheimer’s patients may include beliefs about theft, the patient’s house not being his home, a spouse, is an impostor, belief an intruder is in the house, abandonment, spousal infidelity, and paranoia. visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Confabulation
Confabulating is distinct from lying because first there is no intent to deceive, second the person being unaware that the information is blatantly false. Confabulating can be coherent, internally consistent, and reasonable...despite clearly contradicting evidence. Your challenge: is what they say true?
we all Confabulate [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Confabulation]. We make..verbal statements and/or actions that inaccurately describe history, background and present situations... {Confabulating is distinct from lying because there is typically no intent to deceive...} being unaware that the information is false... blatantly false information can also be coherent, internally consistent, and relatively normal...despite evidence contradicting it...
IMHO we all Confabulate make..verbal statements and/or actions that inaccurately describe history, background and present situations... {is distinct from lying because there is typically no intent to deceive ...} the source is unaware that the information is false... Blatantly false information can also be coherent, internally consistent, and relatively normal...despite evidence contradicting it...
How do Alzheimer’s and dementia cue cards help communication? Video content included. « Caregiver Cards Caregiver Cards
How do Alzheimer’s and dementia cue cards help communication? Video content included. « Caregiver Cards Caregiver Cards: Caregiver Cards Communication Cues for Alzheimer's & Dementia Care
"Let's Continue the Communication"
"Let's Continue the Communication"
Advice from Caregivers when asked “What have you learned from your journey that you think every caregiver should know?”
Advice from Caregivers when asked “What have you learned from your journey that you think every caregiver should know?” I have attempted to categorize their responses. These are their words. Multiple statements in parentheses are further comments from subsequent responders.
http://www.alzconnected.org/discussion.aspx?g=posts&t=2147501102
DJ OK posted
Communication I learned early in her dementia that logic and reason were no longer my friends. She couldn't understand my reasoning and it only succeeded in frustrating both of us.
A caregiver must understand that their loved one cannot reason any longer. They cannot keep themselves safe, make rational decisions, and they cannot understand the word "no". You cannot argue with your loved one because it will only accomplish making your loved one angry and confused.
I learned the value of "loving lies". (“Learn to lie. It's good for their soul.”) (The best answer is the one that brings comfort and accomplishes the goals of keeping them as safe and well as possible. It doesn't have to be the truth.)
Be prepared to answer the same question a million times. In fifteen minutes. Develop strategies for dealing with this, because it WILL wear you down.
Learn to listen to what your loved one means, not what they say. Very often their halting or mixed-up or confabulated words are actually trying to communicate something that is important to them. Don't take it lightly. That said; don't take everything your loved one says personally. They don't really hate you. They don't really think you are trying to steal everything. They don't really wish they were dead.
Remember, they are doing the best they can.
Later on, I learned that my mother was still present at all times, although in a diminished way. Just when I thought that I had lost all of her personality and that she was just a shell of the mother I had known, her spirit would shine through in an instant to restore my faith and encourage me for the rest of my journey. (So important and I think most often overlooked. I think this is because caregivers often don't slow down often enough to notice.) (I'd like to second the fact that our loved ones are still present, even in stage 7. We can reach them ... and if we try and are patient, they can communicate with us.)
Philosophical First and foremost, non-professional caregivers need to understand that a person with AD has a terminal illness. They will never get better and will certainly get worse.
Second, they need to prepare for many, many years of caregiving whether in the home or in a facility. No one, not even any of mom's docs, expected her to live with AD as long as she has.
Take care of your loved one the way you would want to be taken care of and treated.
Realize that everyone's journey is different, and what is right for someone else may not be right for you. In other words, if placement is the option that will work best for everyone, there's no shame in that. If you have the time, energy, skills and desire to devote yourself to in-home caregiving, then do so. But don't judge yourself by what others have done.
When you have a bad day with your loved one, don't stew about it. Had a bad day or a bad visit? This too shall pass. Did you do your best today? That's all anyone can ask.
Promise only that you will always love them and do your best to keep them comfortable and safe. Your love will always be there but promising to keep them in their own home or to always care for them cannot always happen. This disease often needs professionals in controlled settings to keep your loved one safe and comfortable.
The disease often takes "happy" away and the caregiver needs to realize that this cannot be on their "to do" list.
Our loved ones do not regress to childhood. They simply have a greater tendency to pull up memories from an earlier time and to be unable tell that the memories are "old". They are still adults, with the memories of adults, and should be treated with the respect and consideration due to adults. They still do have recent memories. And the more an event carries strong emotions -- of joy, of fear, of sorrow -- the more likely our loved ones will retain the memory of it.
You will need to step into a parental role far sooner than you realize; intentions to "respect" your parents’ old role and decision making puts them at risk.
I feel I have learned to live in the moment...and not take one day for granted.
And, at the end of the day, when you are stressed out and exhausted, say a prayer for those Alzheimer patients in facilities that have nobody that visits or cares. It will make you grateful that you are who you are - one that cares.
Practical Take the time to find an AMAZING Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA), and a primary care geriatrician. We must delegate and pay for professional expertise for the well-being of our ALZ loved ones. We are nearing the end of our journey with this disease, and the one thing I would add looking back, is don't be afraid to jump in and take charge of the situation early. It’s hard, and we want to be mindful of our loved ones feelings, but when it comes to financial matters, wills, POA's, etc.(and even living arrangements), you simply have to take charge. It may be rough in the moment, but you will save yourself so much worry and grief down the road.
Start gathering information on resources and help before you actually need it. Get a notebook; it can be a small steno notebook. Keep it with you at all times and right down names, phone numbers of EVERYONE you speak with, the agency or group they are with. Take it to all medical appointments and note date, doc's name, take notes of what s/he says. Doctors, dentist, specialists, ALL of it. Need a repair to an appliance in the home (whether loved one's home or yours if loved one lives with you) put all the info in the notebook. This book will become your chronological list of everything that happens, and you will find it highly valuable when you need to go back and call someone to ask them about . . . whatever. Monitor your loved one closely, watch for things they are having difficulty with and make modifications where you can, i.e. difficulty with eating or remembering to eat, dressing, hygiene, driving, handling finances, difficulty with walking, using the phone. Looking around their environment and making safety modifications for them.
By far, the most serious danger posed in the earlier stages of the Alzheimer's disease is when the individual may decide they want to go for a walk, go searching for "home," or maybe just walk outside to get the paper. In a restaurant they may go to a rest-room. When they turn around, the place they expect to see is gone and they find themselves standing helplessly confused what they see is totally unfamiliar to them. Get to know your local police. Take them a picture of your loved one, explain his/her dementia. Even if they have a Safe Return bracelet, if your local police are aware of the issue, they are better prepared.
When visiting your local police, ask if you can add your loved one's dementia to your 9-1-1 record, in case something happens to YOU.
Be persistent and proactive in dealing with medical professionals, care facilities, anyone and any place that is providing care to your loved one. If you are not satisfied with the care, say something and insist on getting answers and getting concerns resolved. Don't be afraid to ask questions, don't be afraid or hesitant to ask for something you want done for your loved one. Go with your loved ones to doctor appointments always.
If you have concerns regarding your loved ones, fax or email the health professional a written list of your concerns days before the appointment, this helps give the health professional a heads-up, saves you from having to bring up sensitive issues in front of your loved one.
Get your loved one started in Adult Daycare while they are still "with it" enough to appreciate it. If you wait too long, the sensory stimulation will overload them. (This was a big mistake I made.)
Be very careful about Board & Care facilities, aka Adult Foster Homes. They usually cannot provide the medical care your loved one will need, and they are not held to the same standards as nursing homes or SNFs.
Support your loved one with memory crutches in the early and mid-stages. Label things, write down phone numbers and leave in multiple places. Assist with meds. Recognize that in later phases, those crutches will be useless. Avoid insisting that your loved one recognize the crutch; realize that they haven't got a clue what the crutch is supposed to mean.
Leave out plenty of paper and pens in your loved one’s room. You never know what sweet notes you will find once they have died. You will find that they probably have tried to create their own crutches, and those self-made crutches will move you to tears when they are no longer around.
Financial Get a file cabinet / drawer ready, and buy a box of file folders. The amount of paperwork that comes with loved one (unless you are dealing with Early Onset, then I don't know about that) is astounding. Medicare, Social Security, Pension, bank statements, credit accounts, VA benefits statements, reports from the lab, DMV notices for license, motor vehicle tax, if loved one has own home all the things that go with a house, real estate taxes, home owners insurance, electric and phone bills, cable bill, the paper alone will overwhelm you!!
And as time goes on, for Caregivers to come in while you go out for a once every 3 months night out, for Rehab stays, for ER visits, ambulance rides, hospital stays. Be very, very, very careful and watch for Medicare fraud. Read all those statements you receive, as dull and boring as they may be!
Support Join a support group.
Find a Caregiver Support Group near you, and GO, every meeting. Remember to take care of yourselves as well in the process. Do not be ashamed or hesitant to ask for help. And again, gather as much help as you can get in caring for your loved one, whether it's family, friends, or hired.
Seek information and support during all stages of caregiving. Try your best to cultivate good relationships with family and hold them close. Do all you can to engage them in the care of your loved one. That said, be prepared to lose siblings and other "close" family members over this awful disease.
I've learned, and I think all caregivers should learn, that you shouldn't count on family for help, especially other siblings. Even if they say they will help, remember that they won't. Always rely on yourself to make the decisions because nobody else will do it.
Also, a lot of friends and family will become scarce. You will hardly ever see anybody for a visit and when they do visit, it will be very short. It's kind of a lonely process. Lean heavily on the Alzconnected.org forum for advice, counsel, and a shoulder to cry on. And yet, don't rely solely on this forum. Caregivers tend to become too isolated and we all need real humans for real hugs and real shoulders to cry on.
Medical Make a list of all the medications your loved one is taking, the dosages, when they take it and the prescription number and carry that list with you at all times. You never know when you need to call for an ambulance or meet your loved one at the ER, this list comes in handy and the emergency personnel always appreciate it.
Prepare a Go-Bag for the days you have to take your loved one to the ER. In addition to a book for you to read, make sure you have the following: Current list of meds, and fifteen million jillion copies of the AHCD, DPOA, and the (red or hot pink) POLST. No matter how many times you give these documents to a hospital, they will ignore them or lose them or forget to consult them.
Never assume that any new symptom is "just" due to the dementia. It could be due to a medicine (either an acute or a chronic side effect), drug interactions, an infection, dehydration, an injury, undiagnosed and/or under-treated pain, sensory deprivation, sensory overload, etc. When in doubt, talk to the doctor.
Hundreds of different factors can cause symptoms that mimic Alzheimer's. Most of them can be treated if caught soon enough. It is essential to have our loved ones thoroughly evaluated by a knowledgeable team of doctors. Don't assume it's Alzheimer's just because someone is older and/or close relatives were diagnosed with AD.
Keep a journal of symptoms, of treatments (prescription and OTC drugs, natural supplements, etc), and of anything that could affect symptoms, especially anything that can cause stress. Symptoms and behaviors are affected by all sorts of different factors, and the only way to tell whether, e.g., a new drug is helping or causing a side effect is by keeping daily track of what's going on in our loved ones' lives.
Many doctors are unfamiliar with the disorders that cause dementia, don't know how to diagnose them, don't know how to treat them ... and often don't like working with dementia patients, which is understandable because there is so little that can be done for them.
Caregivers need to keep searching until they find qualified doctors who want to work with and are capable of helping their loved ones.
Buy a Physician's Desk Reference and learn what the meds do that your doctor prescribes. Don't be shy about challenging them on meds that are too dangerous or ineffective.
Watch for UTIs. If you live a good distance from a hospital, buy the self-test strips (Target carries them). Any sudden change in behavior, test for a UTI.
Planning Even if you plan to keep your loved one at home for as long as possible, start researching nursing homes, Skilled Nursing Facilities, and assisted living facilities *now*. The wait list for the good ones can be two years long.
Make sure to make arrangements for some kind of outside help as soon as you can, such as respite care or something similar. You may think you can do it alone, but I'm here to say that nobody can do it all by themselves. You will need someone else reliable to step in for you and it certainly won't be family. If your loved one relies on Medicaid other state equivalents, meet with someone (e.g. Area Council on Aging) who can explain the ins and outs of the system thoroughly, especially your rights.
Many hospitals and nursing homes ignore patients' rights unless you are armed with knowledge. Anticipate the needs of your loved one and put a plan together to meet those needs.
Understand that no matter how well-prepared you are for this disease, you will hit the inevitable brick wall where all your preparedness means absolutely, positively nothing. What works today is guaranteed not to work tomorrow.
Plan, but try and put your energy into "Now." Things can change on a dime, and your journey can be anywhere from a few months to decades.
Education It is never too early to gather information on adult daycare centers, different types of care facilities, caregiving agencies, etc., advance directives, power of attorney, eldercare attorneys, VA benefits.
I second the idea of gathering as much information as you can as soon as you can!!! For many of us we may not be the primary caregiver from the beginning. In our case my FIL took care of MIL and really hid as much as he could from everyone so when he got sick and all of a sudden DH and I were thrown into caring for both we had to get a very crash course indeed!!! Also make sure your loved one has their Will in order including a living Will so you know their wishes. Also, we were not able to find out exactly my MIL's wishes for funeral, burial, etc. So we are doing the best we know how. If you can have a conversation about this while your loved one is still able it takes pressure off worrying if you are doing right by them.
Learn all you can about the specific form of dementia your loved one has. Each type requires a unique strategy, tweaked to unique progression.
Emotional Try not to feel guilty. When your loved one loses independence or abilities, it is not YOUR fault -- it is the disease's fault.
You're trying to do your best to help keep that person safe, and they may not always like it. But they are past the point of understanding/comprehending your true intentions. If your loved one relies on Medicaid etc., be prepared for denigrating statements directed at you the caregiver or your loved one about lack of preparedness, laziness, blah blah blah. Develop a thick skin and anticipate this lack of caring. Those people are not worth the time of day.
Be prepared for disappointments in your circle of friends, people who say they will help who never do. One negative/positive aspect of being a caregiver for someone with dementia: You learn who your true friends are (and it isn't always the people you'd expect).
Be careful not to antagonize your immediate family (spouse, children, grandchildren) over care of your loved one. While your loved one's needs are important, the needs of the not-terminal living trump their needs.
Prepare yourself for the long haul. This is not a short terminal disease, twelve months and funeral. It can be painfully, excruciatingly long. That said, if you are NOT prepared for this disease, you will lose your mind.
Grow a backbone. (This is intended for those who are prone to accept everything a professional says, whether it’s a doctor, nurse, or professional caregiver. Only you know your loved one intimately, and you have to be the best advocate for them possible. This requires finding a new strength within yourself.)
End-of-life Decisions
For a dementia patient, quality of life can be far more important than quantity of life. Our loved ones can go on palliative care whenever they, or we, feel it is time to focus on quality of life.
Self-Care
The Primary Caregiver should not devote so much of their own time and energy to the demented patient that the Caregiver wakes up one day to realize that they have no life of their own.
For a Caregiver to give up their life in order to offer care and loyalty to the demented patient is destroying two people at once. The patient will progress in dementia anyway, no matter. The Caregiver should reserve part of their private life for their own tasks and savors. [ And by the way, I am most guilty of the latter by offering so much of my being to my wife's Dementia that I gave my life away, only to realize my mistake in my 8th year of Caregiving, then taking two years to retrieve even part of the life I had destroyed.]
Try and pace yourself as best you can, it's a long journey and by pacing, I mean using as many resources as possible that you can find to help care for your loved one. Take good care of yourself. You're no good to your loved one if they outlive you.
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Trust your gut! If you’re asking yourself “Is it time…?” …to take away the car keys, …to get more help, …to move loved one to memory care, It probably IS time. We tend to put off making these important decisions too long. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition to all these great comments, here is a wonderful list from a very experienced nurse that went through the dementia journey with her mother and then again with her step-dad. I feel I need to include it in its entirety, as it contains so many relevant subjects.
1. Try to remember, if your Loved One is driving you to absolute distraction; imagine what it must be like to live inside their heads, FEELING all that agitation, upset and fury and believing all those horrible delusions (rigid false beliefs) as truth. It is a hellish existence for them and unconscionable to let it continue when there is help to be had. Getting a dementia expert early in the course of the disease is a necessity on several fronts.
2. Always have a, "Plan B;" that is, a well-researched and well thought out plan of what you will do IF something unforeseen abruptly happens. This can happen and does happen. So; if you have researched local assisted living facilities as well as local nursing homes and Care Agencies prior to need, then if the abrupt unforeseen event arises, physical or dementia, you will be prepared and not have to run hither and thither under tremendous pressure and time constraints. It will also help you to know the quality of such facilities and that will benefit your loved one.
3. The person with dementia is MORE than their dementia. They, just like us, have multiple body systems. They, just like us, will develop illnesses and conditions totally unconnected to their dementia. Always honor this and ensure that the loved one is screened for other conditions outside the dementia when they begin to exhibit symptoms. Do not ascribe, or permit doctors to ascribe all changes and symptoms to dementia alone.
4. When our loved ones have delusions and confabulate making up so many stories; it can be exhausting and a bit unnerving; BUT always err on the side of caution and check things out that they tell you, because there will be times when what they are saying is not a delusion, but actual truth. Respect this and do your due diligence and check things out. I learned this the hard way.
5. If your loved one is alert, and their friends (and even relatives) no longer call or send cards; buy a stack of "thinking of you" cards and mail a couple now and then, and sign someone else's name to it. On birthdays, send six or eight birthday cards sent from other friends or relatives (who you know will not do this), and you will find your loved one so delighted and happy. If in the nursing home, put the cards on the bulletin board or tape them to the closet door, so your loved one can see the bright colors and if capable of doing it, can show others what they have.
6. Try to remember, that if your loved one who verbally abuses you was in her/his "right mind," they would be horrified to see how they were behaving and that they do love you; so try and forgive the dread behaviors and verbal abuse they may demonstrate toward you now that their brains are, "broken" and severely compromised. They cannot help what they do.
7. Therapeutic fibs, (fiblets) are indeed ethical. They are an honorable and respected tool in the caregiver's tool box. Using such fiblets is an actual kindness that permits us to provide care, get them to medical care, dispense medication and get things done without causing them to have meltdowns, upset and agitation.
8. ALWAYS go the doctor's office and into the exam room with your loved one; they will be poor historians, minimize their conditions and never accurately report what the doctor said. In order not to have to talk about your loved one in front of them about their behaviors, you can write a detailed memo outlining changes and concerns and either fax it to the doctor a couple days prior to the appointment, or bring it with you and have staff give it to the doctor and ask him/her to read it BEFORE he/she goes into the exam room.
9. And as others here have said, get those DPOAs for Healthcare and for Finance. Get a HIPAA Waiver signed so the doctor can share medical information with you, and most of all; get your name on all your loved ones bank and financial accounts. This will save you from severe problems as the disease moves forward. Banks do not always honor the Financial DPOA, and it is best to get this done as early as possible. You will then be a co-owner on the account and an make adjustments, etc. as the need arises without hours of difficulty.
10. Get organized with files. Make new files for each calendar year. File ALL loved one related receipts, bills, etc., that you have paid. Make a file for each item or category that you paid on behalf of your loved one including household items, doctors, hospital, ambulance, nursing home, medications, etc. Then each and every month, use the checkbook register and bank statements to put together a Financial Accounting Report. You will be able to then find everything at a moment's notice and if you are ever questioned, you will have the files and reports to back yourself up. I also sent a copy of each month's Financial Accounting Report to each adult sibling to keep everything transparent and for them to see the cost of living items.
1l. Learn to stand up to doctors and other healthcare professionals when they are either inappropriate or non-caring, ignoring or shirking. They are just people and if you feel their services are not in-line with your loved ones symptoms or needs, speak up . . . you are now the advocate and the voice of your loved one who can no longer speak for themselves.
12. If your loved one is developing a fixation on wearing certain clothing items, catch on early and from then on, buy two of everything. That way, you can sneak the dirty garment for the wash and leave the second clean matching garment. This will avoid many meltdowns in such a situation. AND do buy a spare pair of eyeglasses to keep on hand. I found this valuable as glasses get lost in the hospital and in the nursing homes. Better safe than sorry on that front.
13. Learn early, that it costs you absolutely nothing to bite your tongue and agree with your loved one or not challenge your loved one no matter how wrong they are about something. Learn to never, ever argue, never to try and explain their incorrectness, you cannot educate . . . just validate their FEELINGS and not their words and then refocus them . . . you will both be better for it.
14. When there is a sudden moment of clearing of dementia, or a sudden loving moment or a moment of re-connection; take this as a gift, because it IS a gift.
15. Incontinence is the primary reason most loved ones are placed in a facility. Try to get a handle on this issue early and set up the incontinence supplies, do the every two hours in the bathroom training and getting things set up to deal with this as easily as possible and it will benefit both of you.
16. Remember that medications can act alone or in concert with another to cause problems both physical or psychological. This can happen when first starting a drug or can happen after taking the drug for a long while. Drugs need to be screened by the doctors each visit and at each problem. Acquaint yourself with each and every prescription and all side effects by going to a valid site like, www.rxlist.com and reading the side effects.
17. If your loved one suddenly has profound behavioral issues and heightened irritability and even agitation, you may want to have her/him checked for a "silent" urinary tract infection. These UTIs are called, "silent," because they have no physical symptoms; what often happens, is a sudden ramping up of profoundly negative behaviors and they are really problematic. Once the infection is treated, the person usually returns to baseline function. This is a frequent issue for many caregivers loved ones and in some, happens often.
18. Take care of yourself. Develop a relationship with a "companion" person or aide who can come in either routinely or when you call so you can get some breaks for yourself. This is a necessity and will serve you well.
19. Keep a log on the computer or in writing. It is astonishing how often we must remember things that happened, outcomes of doctor's visits, onset of change in condition or behavioral issues, etc. and having a dated log will really help. This is another one of those things I learned to do the hard way. On financial:
When conducting financial business for your loved one, NEVER,EVER co-mingle you checking and savings with theirs.
Your loved one should have their own checking and savings, etc. and you can be co-owner on it; but you should never put their money in your account or yours in theirs.
Also, try not to use a credit card, but if you must such a for mail order prescriptions or online purchase of incontinent supplies, try and use your parent's credit card and never, ever use it for your own personal use.
Be sure and keep the credit card statements in that file system we have discussed.
If you co-mingle funds, and then you are being questioned, you will not be able to easily demonstrate or defend what you have been doing.
Oh yes; though it sounds rather odd, do run a credit check on your loved one at all three credit bureaus. I was amazed to find out my mother had SIXTEEN credit accounts open, plus some errors on the report.
You can "freeze" the accounts for a small fee in that no one can go in and open an account, etc.; so that is a good thing to do.
Also, when I closed the accounts, I was told by each account company, that I would need to send a full copy of my DPOA for Finance to each one of them and it would take two months or so to completely process the account - SO; what I did was to call the accounts back at a later time and used my mother's name and said I wanted to close the accounts . . . . of course I had her social security number, her mother's maiden name and the account number and they closed the accounts right on the spot; no fuss no muss.
I also requested of the bank and ALL account companies - Mom's credit card as well as the accounts I was closing NOT to send any applications for future accounts nor any advertising whatsoever. To my surprise, this was honored.
dj okay posted a What every caregiver needs to know.....
I have no special claim to this document, it is simply a compilation of many, many words of wisdom from many of our members here in this forum.
As long as no one else has any objections, I see no reason not to share it with anyone who can make use of it.
*************** Forums Team **********************************************
Communication I learned early in her dementia that logic and reason were no longer my friends. She couldn't understand my reasoning and it only succeeded in frustrating both of us.
A caregiver must understand that their loved one cannot reason any longer. They cannot keep themselves safe, make rational decisions, and they cannot understand the word "no". You cannot argue with your loved one because it will only accomplish making your loved one angry and confused.
I learned the value of "loving lies". (“Learn to lie. It's good for their soul.”) (The best answer is the one that brings comfort and accomplishes the goals of keeping them as safe and well as possible. It doesn't have to be the truth.)
Be prepared to answer the same question a million times. In fifteen minutes. Develop strategies for dealing with this, because it WILL wear you down.
Learn to listen to what your loved one means, not what they say. Very often their halting or mixed-up or confabulated words are actually trying to communicate something that is important to them. Don't take it lightly. That said; don't take everything your loved one says personally. They don't really hate you. They don't really think you are trying to steal everything. They don't really wish they were dead.
Remember, they are doing the best they can.
Later on, I learned that my mother was still present at all times, although in a diminished way. Just when I thought that I had lost all of her personality and that she was just a shell of the mother I had known, her spirit would shine through in an instant to restore my faith and encourage me for the rest of my journey. (So important and I think most often overlooked. I think this is because caregivers often don't slow down often enough to notice.) (I'd like to second the fact that our loved ones are still present, even in stage 7. We can reach them ... and if we try and are patient, they can communicate with us.)
Philosophical First and foremost, non-professional caregivers need to understand that a person with AD has a terminal illness. They will never get better and will certainly get worse.
Second, they need to prepare for many, many years of caregiving whether in the home or in a facility. No one, not even any of mom's docs, expected her to live with AD as long as she has.
Take care of your loved one the way you would want to be taken care of and treated.
Realize that everyone's journey is different, and what is right for someone else may not be right for you. In other words, if placement is the option that will work best for everyone, there's no shame in that. If you have the time, energy, skills and desire to devote yourself to in-home caregiving, then do so. But don't judge yourself by what others have done.
When you have a bad day with your loved one, don't stew about it. Had a bad day or a bad visit? This too shall pass. Did you do your best today? That's all anyone can ask.
Promise only that you will always love them and do your best to keep them comfortable and safe. Your love will always be there but promising to keep them in their own home or to always care for them cannot always happen. This disease often needs professionals in controlled settings to keep your loved one safe and comfortable.
The disease often takes "happy" away and the caregiver needs to realize that this cannot be on their "to do" list.
Our loved ones do not regress to childhood. They simply have a greater tendency to pull up memories from an earlier time and to be unable tell that the memories are "old". They are still adults, with the memories of adults, and should be treated with the respect and consideration due to adults. They still do have recent memories. And the more an event carries strong emotions -- of joy, of fear, of sorrow -- the more likely our loved ones will retain the memory of it.
You will need to step into a parental role far sooner than you realize; intentions to "respect" your parents’ old role and decision making puts them at risk.
I feel I have learned to live in the moment...and not take one day for granted.
And, at the end of the day, when you are stressed out and exhausted, say a prayer for those Alzheimer patients in facilities that have nobody that visits or cares. It will make you grateful that you are who you are - one that cares.
Practical Take the time to find an AMAZING Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA), and a primary care geriatrician. We must delegate and pay for professional expertise for the well-being of our ALZ loved ones. We are nearing the end of our journey with this disease, and the one thing I would add looking back, is don't be afraid to jump in and take charge of the situation early. It’s hard, and we want to be mindful of our loved ones feelings, but when it comes to financial matters, wills, POA's, etc.(and even living arrangements), you simply have to take charge. It may be rough in the moment, but you will save yourself so much worry and grief down the road.
Start gathering information on resources and help before you actually need it. Get a notebook; it can be a small steno notebook. Keep it with you at all times and right down names, phone numbers of EVERYONE you speak with, the agency or group they are with. Take it to all medical appointments and note date, doc's name, take notes of what s/he says. Doctors, dentist, specialists, ALL of it. Need a repair to an appliance in the home (whether loved one's home or yours if loved one lives with you) put all the info in the notebook. This book will become your chronological list of everything that happens, and you will find it highly valuable when you need to go back and call someone to ask them about . . . whatever. Monitor your loved one closely, watch for things they are having difficulty with and make modifications where you can, i.e. difficulty with eating or remembering to eat, dressing, hygiene, driving, handling finances, difficulty with walking, using the phone. Looking around their environment and making safety modifications for them.
By far, the most serious danger posed in the earlier stages of the Alzheimer's disease is when the individual may decide they want to go for a walk, go searching for "home," or maybe just walk outside to get the paper. In a restaurant they may go to a rest-room. When they turn around, the place they expect to see is gone and they find themselves standing helplessly confused what they see is totally unfamiliar to them. Get to know your local police. Take them a picture of your loved one, explain his/her dementia. Even if they have a Safe Return bracelet, if your local police are aware of the issue, they are better prepared.
When visiting your local police, ask if you can add your loved one's dementia to your 9-1-1 record, in case something happens to YOU.
Be persistent and proactive in dealing with medical professionals, care facilities, anyone and any place that is providing care to your loved one. If you are not satisfied with the care, say something and insist on getting answers and getting concerns resolved. Don't be afraid to ask questions, don't be afraid or hesitant to ask for something you want done for your loved one. Go with your loved ones to doctor appointments always.
If you have concerns regarding your loved ones, fax or email the health professional a written list of your concerns days before the appointment, this helps give the health professional a heads-up, saves you from having to bring up sensitive issues in front of your loved one.
Get your loved one started in Adult Daycare while they are still "with it" enough to appreciate it. If you wait too long, the sensory stimulation will overload them. (This was a big mistake I made.)
Be very careful about Board & Care facilities, aka Adult Foster Homes. They usually cannot provide the medical care your loved one will need, and they are not held to the same standards as nursing homes or SNFs.
Support your loved one with memory crutches in the early and mid-stages. Label things, write down phone numbers and leave in multiple places. Assist with meds. Recognize that in later phases, those crutches will be useless. Avoid insisting that your loved one recognize the crutch; realize that they haven't got a clue what the crutch is supposed to mean.
Leave out plenty of paper and pens in your loved one’s room. You never know what sweet notes you will find once they have died. You will find that they probably have tried to create their own crutches, and those self-made crutches will move you to tears when they are no longer around.
Financial Get a file cabinet / drawer ready, and buy a box of file folders. The amount of paperwork that comes with loved one (unless you are dealing with Early Onset, then I don't know about that) is astounding. Medicare, Social Security, Pension, bank statements, credit accounts, VA benefits statements, reports from the lab, DMV notices for license, motor vehicle tax, if loved one has own home all the things that go with a house, real estate taxes, home owners insurance, electric and phone bills, cable bill, the paper alone will overwhelm you!!
And as time goes on, for Caregivers to come in while you go out for a once every 3 months night out, for Rehab stays, for ER visits, ambulance rides, hospital stays. Be very, very, very careful and watch for Medicare fraud. Read all those statements you receive, as dull and boring as they may be!
Support Join a support group.
Find a Caregiver Support Group near you, and GO, every meeting. Remember to take care of yourselves as well in the process. Do not be ashamed or hesitant to ask for help. And again, gather as much help as you can get in caring for your loved one, whether it's family, friends, or hired.
Seek information and support during all stages of caregiving. Try your best to cultivate good relationships with family and hold them close. Do all you can to engage them in the care of your loved one. That said, be prepared to lose siblings and other "close" family members over this awful disease.
I've learned, and I think all caregivers should learn, that you shouldn't count on family for help, especially other siblings. Even if they say they will help, remember that they won't. Always rely on yourself to make the decisions because nobody else will do it.
Also, a lot of friends and family will become scarce. You will hardly ever see anybody for a visit and when they do visit, it will be very short. It's kind of a lonely process. Lean heavily on the Alzconnected.org forum for advice, counsel, and a shoulder to cry on. And yet, don't rely solely on this forum. Caregivers tend to become too isolated and we all need real humans for real hugs and real shoulders to cry on.
Medical Make a list of all the medications your loved one is taking, the dosages, when they take it and the prescription number and carry that list with you at all times. You never know when you need to call for an ambulance or meet your loved one at the ER, this list comes in handy and the emergency personnel always appreciate it.
Prepare a Go-Bag for the days you have to take your loved one to the ER. In addition to a book for you to read, make sure you have the following: Current list of meds, and fifteen million jillion copies of the AHCD, DPOA, and the (red or hot pink) POLST. No matter how many times you give these documents to a hospital, they will ignore them or lose them or forget to consult them.
Never assume that any new symptom is "just" due to the dementia. It could be due to a medicine (either an acute or a chronic side effect), drug interactions, an infection, dehydration, an injury, undiagnosed and/or under-treated pain, sensory deprivation, sensory overload, etc. When in doubt, talk to the doctor.
Hundreds of different factors can cause symptoms that mimic Alzheimer's. Most of them can be treated if caught soon enough. It is essential to have our loved ones thoroughly evaluated by a knowledgeable team of doctors. Don't assume it's Alzheimer's just because someone is older and/or close relatives were diagnosed with AD.
Keep a journal of symptoms, of treatments (prescription and OTC drugs, natural supplements, etc), and of anything that could affect symptoms, especially anything that can cause stress. Symptoms and behaviors are affected by all sorts of different factors, and the only way to tell whether, e.g., a new drug is helping or causing a side effect is by keeping daily track of what's going on in our loved ones' lives.
Many doctors are unfamiliar with the disorders that cause dementia, don't know how to diagnose them, don't know how to treat them ... and often don't like working with dementia patients, which is understandable because there is so little that can be done for them.
Caregivers need to keep searching until they find qualified doctors who want to work with and are capable of helping their loved ones.
Buy a Physician's Desk Reference and learn what the meds do that your doctor prescribes. Don't be shy about challenging them on meds that are too dangerous or ineffective.
Watch for UTIs. If you live a good distance from a hospital, buy the self-test strips (Target carries them). Any sudden change in behavior, test for a UTI.
Planning Even if you plan to keep your loved one at home for as long as possible, start researching nursing homes, Skilled Nursing Facilities, and assisted living facilities *now*. The wait list for the good ones can be two years long.
Make sure to make arrangements for some kind of outside help as soon as you can, such as respite care or something similar. You may think you can do it alone, but I'm here to say that nobody can do it all by themselves. You will need someone else reliable to step in for you and it certainly won't be family. If your loved one relies on Medicaid other state equivalents, meet with someone (e.g. Area Council on Aging) who can explain the ins and outs of the system thoroughly, especially your rights.
Many hospitals and nursing homes ignore patients' rights unless you are armed with knowledge. Anticipate the needs of your loved one and put a plan together to meet those needs.
Understand that no matter how well-prepared you are for this disease, you will hit the inevitable brick wall where all your preparedness means absolutely, positively nothing. What works today is guaranteed not to work tomorrow.
Plan, but try and put your energy into "Now." Things can change on a dime, and your journey can be anywhere from a few months to decades.
Education It is never too early to gather information on adult daycare centers, different types of care facilities, caregiving agencies, etc., advance directives, power of attorney, eldercare attorneys, VA benefits.
I second the idea of gathering as much information as you can as soon as you can!!! For many of us we may not be the primary caregiver from the beginning. In our case my FIL took care of MIL and really hid as much as he could from everyone so when he got sick and all of a sudden DH and I were thrown into caring for both we had to get a very crash course indeed!!! Also make sure your loved one has their Will in order including a living Will so you know their wishes. Also, we were not able to find out exactly my MIL's wishes for funeral, burial, etc. So we are doing the best we know how. If you can have a conversation about this while your loved one is still able it takes pressure off worrying if you are doing right by them.
Learn all you can about the specific form of dementia your loved one has. Each type requires a unique strategy, tweaked to unique progression.
Emotional Try not to feel guilty. When your loved one loses independence or abilities, it is not YOUR fault -- it is the disease's fault.
You're trying to do your best to help keep that person safe, and they may not always like it. But they are past the point of understanding/comprehending your true intentions. If your loved one relies on Medicaid etc., be prepared for denigrating statements directed at you the caregiver or your loved one about lack of preparedness, laziness, blah blah blah. Develop a thick skin and anticipate this lack of caring. Those people are not worth the time of day.
Be prepared for disappointments in your circle of friends, people who say they will help who never do. One negative/positive aspect of being a caregiver for someone with dementia: You learn who your true friends are (and it isn't always the people you'd expect).
Be careful not to antagonize your immediate family (spouse, children, grandchildren) over care of your loved one. While your loved one's needs are important, the needs of the not-terminal living trump their needs.
Prepare yourself for the long haul. This is not a short terminal disease, twelve months and funeral. It can be painfully, excruciatingly long. That said, if you are NOT prepared for this disease, you will lose your mind.
Grow a backbone. (This is intended for those who are prone to accept everything a professional says, whether it’s a doctor, nurse, or professional caregiver. Only you know your loved one intimately, and you have to be the best advocate for them possible. This requires finding a new strength within yourself.)
End-of-life Decisions
For a dementia patient, quality of life can be far more important than quantity of life. Our loved ones can go on palliative care whenever they, or we, feel it is time to focus on quality of life.
Self-Care
The Primary Caregiver should not devote so much of their own time and energy to the demented patient that the Caregiver wakes up one day to realize that they have no life of their own.
For a Caregiver to give up their life in order to offer care and loyalty to the demented patient is destroying two people at once. The patient will progress in dementia anyway, no matter. The Caregiver should reserve part of their private life for their own tasks and savors. [ And by the way, I am most guilty of the latter by offering so much of my being to my wife's Dementia that I gave my life away, only to realize my mistake in my 8th year of Caregiving, then taking two years to retrieve even part of the life I had destroyed.]
Try and pace yourself as best you can, it's a long journey and by pacing, I mean using as many resources as possible that you can find to help care for your loved one. Take good care of yourself. You're no good to your loved one if they outlive you.
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Trust your gut! If you’re asking yourself “Is it time…?” …to take away the car keys, …to get more help, …to move loved one to memory care, It probably IS time. We tend to put off making these important decisions too long. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition to all these great comments, here is a wonderful list from a very experienced nurse that went through the dementia journey with her mother and then again with her step-dad. I feel I need to include it in its entirety, as it contains so many relevant subjects.
1. Try to remember, if your Loved One is driving you to absolute distraction; imagine what it must be like to live inside their heads, FEELING all that agitation, upset and fury and believing all those horrible delusions (rigid false beliefs) as truth. It is a hellish existence for them and unconscionable to let it continue when there is help to be had. Getting a dementia expert early in the course of the disease is a necessity on several fronts.
2. Always have a, "Plan B;" that is, a well-researched and well thought out plan of what you will do IF something unforeseen abruptly happens. This can happen and does happen. So; if you have researched local assisted living facilities as well as local nursing homes and Care Agencies prior to need, then if the abrupt unforeseen event arises, physical or dementia, you will be prepared and not have to run hither and thither under tremendous pressure and time constraints. It will also help you to know the quality of such facilities and that will benefit your loved one.
3. The person with dementia is MORE than their dementia. They, just like us, have multiple body systems. They, just like us, will develop illnesses and conditions totally unconnected to their dementia. Always honor this and ensure that the loved one is screened for other conditions outside the dementia when they begin to exhibit symptoms. Do not ascribe, or permit doctors to ascribe all changes and symptoms to dementia alone.
4. When our loved ones have delusions and confabulate making up so many stories; it can be exhausting and a bit unnerving; BUT always err on the side of caution and check things out that they tell you, because there will be times when what they are saying is not a delusion, but actual truth. Respect this and do your due diligence and check things out. I learned this the hard way.
5. If your loved one is alert, and their friends (and even relatives) no longer call or send cards; buy a stack of "thinking of you" cards and mail a couple now and then, and sign someone else's name to it. On birthdays, send six or eight birthday cards sent from other friends or relatives (who you know will not do this), and you will find your loved one so delighted and happy. If in the nursing home, put the cards on the bulletin board or tape them to the closet door, so your loved one can see the bright colors and if capable of doing it, can show others what they have.
6. Try to remember, that if your loved one who verbally abuses you was in her/his "right mind," they would be horrified to see how they were behaving and that they do love you; so try and forgive the dread behaviors and verbal abuse they may demonstrate toward you now that their brains are, "broken" and severely compromised. They cannot help what they do.
7. Therapeutic fibs, (fiblets) are indeed ethical. They are an honorable and respected tool in the caregiver's tool box. Using such fiblets is an actual kindness that permits us to provide care, get them to medical care, dispense medication and get things done without causing them to have meltdowns, upset and agitation.
8. ALWAYS go the doctor's office and into the exam room with your loved one; they will be poor historians, minimize their conditions and never accurately report what the doctor said. In order not to have to talk about your loved one in front of them about their behaviors, you can write a detailed memo outlining changes and concerns and either fax it to the doctor a couple days prior to the appointment, or bring it with you and have staff give it to the doctor and ask him/her to read it BEFORE he/she goes into the exam room.
9. And as others here have said, get those DPOAs for Healthcare and for Finance. Get a HIPAA Waiver signed so the doctor can share medical information with you, and most of all; get your name on all your loved ones bank and financial accounts. This will save you from severe problems as the disease moves forward. Banks do not always honor the Financial DPOA, and it is best to get this done as early as possible. You will then be a co-owner on the account and an make adjustments, etc. as the need arises without hours of difficulty.
10. Get organized with files. Make new files for each calendar year. File ALL loved one related receipts, bills, etc., that you have paid. Make a file for each item or category that you paid on behalf of your loved one including household items, doctors, hospital, ambulance, nursing home, medications, etc. Then each and every month, use the checkbook register and bank statements to put together a Financial Accounting Report. You will be able to then find everything at a moment's notice and if you are ever questioned, you will have the files and reports to back yourself up. I also sent a copy of each month's Financial Accounting Report to each adult sibling to keep everything transparent and for them to see the cost of living items.
1l. Learn to stand up to doctors and other healthcare professionals when they are either inappropriate or non-caring, ignoring or shirking. They are just people and if you feel their services are not in-line with your loved ones symptoms or needs, speak up . . . you are now the advocate and the voice of your loved one who can no longer speak for themselves.
12. If your loved one is developing a fixation on wearing certain clothing items, catch on early and from then on, buy two of everything. That way, you can sneak the dirty garment for the wash and leave the second clean matching garment. This will avoid many meltdowns in such a situation. AND do buy a spare pair of eyeglasses to keep on hand. I found this valuable as glasses get lost in the hospital and in the nursing homes. Better safe than sorry on that front.
13. Learn early, that it costs you absolutely nothing to bite your tongue and agree with your loved one or not challenge your loved one no matter how wrong they are about something. Learn to never, ever argue, never to try and explain their incorrectness, you cannot educate . . . just validate their FEELINGS and not their words and then refocus them . . . you will both be better for it.
14. When there is a sudden moment of clearing of dementia, or a sudden loving moment or a moment of re-connection; take this as a gift, because it IS a gift.
15. Incontinence is the primary reason most loved ones are placed in a facility. Try to get a handle on this issue early and set up the incontinence supplies, do the every two hours in the bathroom training and getting things set up to deal with this as easily as possible and it will benefit both of you.
16. Remember that medications can act alone or in concert with another to cause problems both physical or psychological. This can happen when first starting a drug or can happen after taking the drug for a long while. Drugs need to be screened by the doctors each visit and at each problem. Acquaint yourself with each and every prescription and all side effects by going to a valid site like, www.rxlist.com and reading the side effects.
17. If your loved one suddenly has profound behavioral issues and heightened irritability and even agitation, you may want to have her/him checked for a "silent" urinary tract infection. These UTIs are called, "silent," because they have no physical symptoms; what often happens, is a sudden ramping up of profoundly negative behaviors and they are really problematic. Once the infection is treated, the person usually returns to baseline function. This is a frequent issue for many caregivers loved ones and in some, happens often.
18. Take care of yourself. Develop a relationship with a "companion" person or aide who can come in either routinely or when you call so you can get some breaks for yourself. This is a necessity and will serve you well.
19. Keep a log on the computer or in writing. It is astonishing how often we must remember things that happened, outcomes of doctor's visits, onset of change in condition or behavioral issues, etc. and having a dated log will really help. This is another one of those things I learned to do the hard way. On financial:
When conducting financial business for your loved one, NEVER,EVER co-mingle you checking and savings with theirs.
Your loved one should have their own checking and savings, etc. and you can be co-owner on it; but you should never put their money in your account or yours in theirs.
Also, try not to use a credit card, but if you must such a for mail order prescriptions or online purchase of incontinent supplies, try and use your parent's credit card and never, ever use it for your own personal use.
Be sure and keep the credit card statements in that file system we have discussed.
If you co-mingle funds, and then you are being questioned, you will not be able to easily demonstrate or defend what you have been doing.
Oh yes; though it sounds rather odd, do run a credit check on your loved one at all three credit bureaus. I was amazed to find out my mother had SIXTEEN credit accounts open, plus some errors on the report.
You can "freeze" the accounts for a small fee in that no one can go in and open an account, etc.; so that is a good thing to do.
Also, when I closed the accounts, I was told by each account company, that I would need to send a full copy of my DPOA for Finance to each one of them and it would take two months or so to completely process the account - SO; what I did was to call the accounts back at a later time and used my mother's name and said I wanted to close the accounts . . . . of course I had her social security number, her mother's maiden name and the account number and they closed the accounts right on the spot; no fuss no muss.
I also requested of the bank and ALL account companies - Mom's credit card as well as the accounts I was closing NOT to send any applications for future accounts nor any advertising whatsoever. To my surprise, this was honored.
dj okay posted a What every caregiver needs to know.....
I have no special claim to this document, it is simply a compilation of many, many words of wisdom from many of our members here in this forum.
As long as no one else has any objections, I see no reason not to share it with anyone who can make use of it.
*************** Forums Team **********************************************
A Sense of Calm DVD
"A Sense of Calm" is being used in over 600 care homes and schools, as well as by family carers at home, to help relax adults and children with a range of conditions, including dementia, Alzheimer’s, strokes, autism, Down’s syndrome and other learning difficulties, where the nature of their condition can lead to frustration, agitation, anxiety and sometimes rage.
DVD is 60 minutes long and features 6 video tracks of specially-created, flowing images, set to specially-composed music, designed to promote relaxation through sensory stimulation. We also include a booklet on how to get the best from your DVD. A Sense of Calm DVD:
DVD is 60 minutes long and features 6 video tracks of specially-created, flowing images, set to specially-composed music, designed to promote relaxation through sensory stimulation. We also include a booklet on how to get the best from your DVD. A Sense of Calm DVD:
Caregiver Cards Cue Cards & Prompts for Alzheimers & Dementia Caregiver Cards
Caregiver Cards Cue Cards & Prompts for Alzheimers & Dementia Caregiver Cards:
<QUOTE>
Caregiver Cards provide essential visual picture cues that improve communication, promote independence and reduce anxiety for adults with memory, cognitive, or speech challenges due to dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, deaf or hard of hearing, and other disabilities. An essential aid for helping adults understand and engage in activities at home or in residential care or memory care settings.
This easy-to-use, compact set of 76 cards includes simple, clear illustrations that prompt your loved one to understand and participate more independently in self-care and social activities.
The deck includes 146 picture cues covering 6 subject categories:
tivities of Daily Living
Instrumental
Activities of Daily Living
Activities
Command and Prompts
Emotions and Feelings
Events, People and Places
Packaged as a deck of 76 cue cards, double sided, ring bound so it opens easily to the desired color-coded section. Cards are glossy, heavy card stock so they can be wiped clean. Blank cards are provided so you can > add other specific center or activity cues. Binder rings allow for versatility of Caregiver Cards, allowing you to add or subtract illustrations that are important for your caregiving needs
http://tinyurl.com/prbgcnq
Caregiver Cards - Communication Cue Cards | Visual Picture Cues That
Improve Communication, Promote Independence... by Caregiver Cards <END QUOTE>
<QUOTE>
Caregiver Cards provide essential visual picture cues that improve communication, promote independence and reduce anxiety for adults with memory, cognitive, or speech challenges due to dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, deaf or hard of hearing, and other disabilities. An essential aid for helping adults understand and engage in activities at home or in residential care or memory care settings.
This easy-to-use, compact set of 76 cards includes simple, clear illustrations that prompt your loved one to understand and participate more independently in self-care and social activities.
The deck includes 146 picture cues covering 6 subject categories:
tivities of Daily Living
Instrumental
Activities of Daily Living
Activities
Command and Prompts
Emotions and Feelings
Events, People and Places
Packaged as a deck of 76 cue cards, double sided, ring bound so it opens easily to the desired color-coded section. Cards are glossy, heavy card stock so they can be wiped clean. Blank cards are provided so you can > add other specific center or activity cues. Binder rings allow for versatility of Caregiver Cards, allowing you to add or subtract illustrations that are important for your caregiving needs
http://tinyurl.com/prbgcnq
Caregiver Cards - Communication Cue Cards | Visual Picture Cues That
Improve Communication, Promote Independence... by Caregiver Cards <END QUOTE>
AMERICA’S EMERGENCY CARE ENVIRONMENT
ACEP 2014 EM Report Card: AMERICA’S EMERGENCY
CARE ENVIRONMENT
About ACEP
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), founded in 1968, is the oldest and largest national medical specialty organization representing physicians who practice emergency medicine. With more than 32,000 members, ACEP continually monitors trends in the health care environment and analyzes issues affecting emergency physicians and their patients
CARE ENVIRONMENT
About ACEP
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), founded in 1968, is the oldest and largest national medical specialty organization representing physicians who practice emergency medicine. With more than 32,000 members, ACEP continually monitors trends in the health care environment and analyzes issues affecting emergency physicians and their patients
Alzheimer's/Dementia Hospitalization Wristband Project
Alzheimer's/Dementia Hospitalization Wristband: The wristband project does several things:
Upon admission, patients with a prior diagnosis have a Purple Angel affixed to their standard issue hospital wristband for identification purposes.
Purple Angel is placed on their door so that anyone entering knows they should approach with the patient’s special needs in mind.
Upon admission, patients with a prior diagnosis have a Purple Angel affixed to their standard issue hospital wristband for identification purposes.
Purple Angel is placed on their door so that anyone entering knows they should approach with the patient’s special needs in mind.
- Use of “sitters” will become standard practice, allowing families to take much needed breaks without worrying that their loved one will be left alone.
- A dementia screening will be added to the admission process in hopes of identifying cognitive impairment even if there is no prior diagnosis.
▶ The Difference Between EMR & EHR - YouTube
▶ The Difference Between EMR & EHR - YouTube
Quick Illustrated Video Differentiating EHR from EMR
shared by Matthew Smith on Wed, Jan 15, 2014 @ 01:28 PM
previous post on the differences between EMR (Electronic Medical Records) and EHR (Electronic Health Records) really resonated with our readers.
Thank you to several HD Insights blog readers for sending along this concise, illustrated video detailing the differences between an EMR and an EHR. We felt that this video is too good not to share with everyone.
Matthew Smith says Feel free to forward this post (and our previous post) as a simple explanation when someone in your department asks what the difference is between these two terms.
Quick Illustrated Video Differentiating EHR from EMR
shared by Matthew Smith on Wed, Jan 15, 2014 @ 01:28 PM
previous post on the differences between EMR (Electronic Medical Records) and EHR (Electronic Health Records) really resonated with our readers.
Thank you to several HD Insights blog readers for sending along this concise, illustrated video detailing the differences between an EMR and an EHR. We felt that this video is too good not to share with everyone.
Matthew Smith says Feel free to forward this post (and our previous post) as a simple explanation when someone in your department asks what the difference is between these two terms.
EMR vs. EHR – What is the Difference?
EMR vs. EHR – What is the Difference?: EMR vs. EHR – What is the Difference?
Posted by Matthew Smith on Tue, Jan 14, 2014 @ 12:21 PM
What’s in a word? Or, even one letter of an acronym?
Some people use the terms “electronic medical record” and “electronic health record” (or “EMR” and “EHR”) interchangeably. But at the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), you’ll notice they use electronic health record or EHR almost exclusively. While it may seem a little picky at first, the difference between the two terms is actually quite significant.The EMR term came along first, and indeed, early EMRs were “medical.” They were for use by clinicians mostly for diagnosis and treatment.
In contrast, “health” relates to “The condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit; especially…freedom from physical disease or pain…the general condition of the body.” The word “health” covers a lot more territory than the word “medical.” And EHRs go a lot further than EMRs.
Posted by Matthew Smith on Tue, Jan 14, 2014 @ 12:21 PM
What’s in a word? Or, even one letter of an acronym?
Some people use the terms “electronic medical record” and “electronic health record” (or “EMR” and “EHR”) interchangeably. But at the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), you’ll notice they use electronic health record or EHR almost exclusively. While it may seem a little picky at first, the difference between the two terms is actually quite significant.The EMR term came along first, and indeed, early EMRs were “medical.” They were for use by clinicians mostly for diagnosis and treatment.
In contrast, “health” relates to “The condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit; especially…freedom from physical disease or pain…the general condition of the body.” The word “health” covers a lot more territory than the word “medical.” And EHRs go a lot further than EMRs.
50 Best Senior Caregiving Tools Online | Minute Women Inc Home Care | Non-Medical Senior Care – Minute Women Inc
50 Best Senior Caregiving Tools Online
It can be very frustrating when trying to find caregiving tools on the internet. You know what you need is out there but can spend hours finding the right tool.
list of the best caregiving tools that we could find on the internet.
Resources For Caregivers | AssistedLiving.com
Resources For Caregivers | AssistedLiving.com: Government and Nonprofit Resources For Seniors
Assisted living: compassionate, competent care | Sally Michael , UTSanDiego.com
Assisted living: compassionate, competent care | UTSanDiego.com: ⌂
Assisted living: compassionate, competent care
The positive, everyday experiences taking place in thousands of senior communities across this country are the reality of Assisted Living. Like Marion, countless seniors and their families breathe a sigh of relief daily knowing they are well taken care of, safe, and living as independently as possible. Their caregivers are dedicated professionals who go the extra mile to make life more comfortable and easier to manage. While the truth about Assisted Living is not likely to be the focus of overblown media hype, it has taken hold. 94% of residents like what they have experienced and 99% feel safe. This is a model that works and preserves dignity and independence for our seniors.
Sally Michael is the president of the California Assisted Living Association, which represents over 460 Assisted Living communities in the state. Members range from providers that cater to an active lifestyle to those that specialize in caring for residents with memory impairment.
Assisted living: compassionate, competent care
The positive, everyday experiences taking place in thousands of senior communities across this country are the reality of Assisted Living. Like Marion, countless seniors and their families breathe a sigh of relief daily knowing they are well taken care of, safe, and living as independently as possible. Their caregivers are dedicated professionals who go the extra mile to make life more comfortable and easier to manage. While the truth about Assisted Living is not likely to be the focus of overblown media hype, it has taken hold. 94% of residents like what they have experienced and 99% feel safe. This is a model that works and preserves dignity and independence for our seniors.
Sally Michael is the president of the California Assisted Living Association, which represents over 460 Assisted Living communities in the state. Members range from providers that cater to an active lifestyle to those that specialize in caring for residents with memory impairment.
"SENIOR BULLYING ACROSS THE AGES: SENIORS BULLYING OTHER SENIORS" | LinkedIn
"SENIOR BULLYING ACROSS THE AGES: SENIORS BULLYING OTHER SENIORS" | LinkedIn:
Sandra Stimson National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, Founder
Seniors bullying other seniors in nursing homes, assisted facilities, Independent living, Hospice centers and seniors communities. Download this Staff Education Tool Kit in pdf or powerpoint presentation by registering free at www.nccdp.org now through March 15 2014
Sandra Stimson National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, Founder
Seniors bullying other seniors in nursing homes, assisted facilities, Independent living, Hospice centers and seniors communities. Download this Staff Education Tool Kit in pdf or powerpoint presentation by registering free at www.nccdp.org now through March 15 2014
How to Message LinkedIn Group Members | @StacyZapar's Blog
How to Message LinkedIn Group Members | @StacyZapar's Blog
You used to be able to message fellow group members via a link right on their profile. That went away many years ago and it's now much more convoluted and you really have to know what you’re doing to figure it out. It’s not intuitive in the least (in my opinion) and it even took me a while to find the feature after this latest change to the functionality and user interface. (Note: This could be a sign that the feature is in the process of being phased out… Much easier to do away with something that no one could find recently anyway.)
Stacy Donovan Zapar is a 16-year recruiting veteran for Fortune 500 tech companies and CEO of Tenfold Social Training, a B2B Social Recruiting training company for talent acquisition and staffing teams around the world. She is also the Most Connected Woman on LinkedIn with more than 40,000 1st-level connections, making her the #5 most connected person out of 259 million users worldwide. She is a monthly contributor to LinkedIn's Talent Blog and served as Technical Editor for Wiley's LinkedIn Marketing: An Hour a Day. Stacy speaks regularly at HR / Recruiting conferences globally, including #truLondon, LinkedIn Talent Connect and Sourcing Summit Australia. She is #6 on Huffington Post's Top 100 Most Social HR Experts on Twitter and #7 on ERE.net's 50 People Most Retweeted by Recruiters on Twitter. Feel free to connect with Stacy on LinkedIn and Twitter (@StacyZapar).
You used to be able to message fellow group members via a link right on their profile. That went away many years ago and it's now much more convoluted and you really have to know what you’re doing to figure it out. It’s not intuitive in the least (in my opinion) and it even took me a while to find the feature after this latest change to the functionality and user interface. (Note: This could be a sign that the feature is in the process of being phased out… Much easier to do away with something that no one could find recently anyway.)
Stacy Donovan Zapar is a 16-year recruiting veteran for Fortune 500 tech companies and CEO of Tenfold Social Training, a B2B Social Recruiting training company for talent acquisition and staffing teams around the world. She is also the Most Connected Woman on LinkedIn with more than 40,000 1st-level connections, making her the #5 most connected person out of 259 million users worldwide. She is a monthly contributor to LinkedIn's Talent Blog and served as Technical Editor for Wiley's LinkedIn Marketing: An Hour a Day. Stacy speaks regularly at HR / Recruiting conferences globally, including #truLondon, LinkedIn Talent Connect and Sourcing Summit Australia. She is #6 on Huffington Post's Top 100 Most Social HR Experts on Twitter and #7 on ERE.net's 50 People Most Retweeted by Recruiters on Twitter. Feel free to connect with Stacy on LinkedIn and Twitter (@StacyZapar).
Caregiver needing newcomer information
Here is a link to newcomer information:
http://www.alzconnected.org/discussion.aspx?tid=2147499781&g=posts&t=2147499795
http://www.alzconnected.org/discussion.aspx?tid=2147499781&g=posts&t=2147499795
HOME STAIR LIFTS, PORTABLE AND CUSTOM MODULAR WHEELCHAIR RAMPS
HOME STAIR LIFTS, PORTABLE AND CUSTOM MODULAR WHEELCHAIR RAMPS: Living Free Home, a division of Homecare America, is a leading provider of high quality accessibility solutions and products manufactured in the USA. We proudly serve customers throughout the tri-state area with our core commitment to 5 star service.
We specialize in a wide variety of accessibility solutions, from stairlifts, portable wheelchair ramps, modular wheelchair ramps, vertical and vehicle lifts, to Elegance, Heritage, Classic and Specialty lift chairs, wheelchair lifts and handicapped lifts.
We specialize in a wide variety of accessibility solutions, from stairlifts, portable wheelchair ramps, modular wheelchair ramps, vertical and vehicle lifts, to Elegance, Heritage, Classic and Specialty lift chairs, wheelchair lifts and handicapped lifts.
Medicare to Cover More Mental Health Costs - NYTimes.com
Medicare to Cover More Mental Health Costs - NYTimes.com: The Medicare change follows new regulations issued last month by the administration for the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which expanded the principle of equal treatment for psychological illnesses to all forms health insurance. But that law does not apply to Medicare.
“Hopefully, older adults who previously were unable to afford to see a therapist will now be more likely to do so,” said Andrea Callow, a policy lawyer with the Center for Medicare Advocacy.
“Hopefully, older adults who previously were unable to afford to see a therapist will now be more likely to do so,” said Andrea Callow, a policy lawyer with the Center for Medicare Advocacy.
2014 Caregiver Overtime Law - Effective January 1st in California | LinkedIn
2014 Caregiver Overtime Law - Effective January 1st in California | LinkedIn: 2014 Caregiver Overtime Law - Effective January 1st in California
Jeromy Meyer Community Liaison at Raya's Paradise Board & Care and CARE Homecare - West Hollywood
I wanted to share some news about the new law regarding caregiver overtime. As you are well aware I'm sure, on January 1, 2014 the state of California will be requiring ALL licensed, insured & bonded in-home caregiver/companion providers to pay Caregivers overtime. As a provider also of Caregivers in the home, Raya's Paradise/CARE Homecare have come up with a way to fairly accommodate those clients and families who's rates will become impossible to maintain.
Jeromy Meyer, Community Liaison
CARE Homecare and Raya's Paradise Board & Care
cell: 323-599-6056
www.carehomecare.net
www.rayasparadise.com
Jeromy Meyer Community Liaison at Raya's Paradise Board & Care and CARE Homecare - West Hollywood
I wanted to share some news about the new law regarding caregiver overtime. As you are well aware I'm sure, on January 1, 2014 the state of California will be requiring ALL licensed, insured & bonded in-home caregiver/companion providers to pay Caregivers overtime. As a provider also of Caregivers in the home, Raya's Paradise/CARE Homecare have come up with a way to fairly accommodate those clients and families who's rates will become impossible to maintain.
Jeromy Meyer, Community Liaison
CARE Homecare and Raya's Paradise Board & Care
cell: 323-599-6056
www.carehomecare.net
www.rayasparadise.com
Wound Care Basics Today's Caregiver magazine November/December Issue
Nov_Dec_Digital.pdf
Wound Care Basics
Studies have shown that more than one-third of caregivers believe wound care is a challenging task and want better education on treatment.
Whether your loved one is living with diabetes, skin tears or pressure ulcers, wound care is an important topic for family caregivers to learn more about.
Wound Care Basics
Studies have shown that more than one-third of caregivers believe wound care is a challenging task and want better education on treatment.
Whether your loved one is living with diabetes, skin tears or pressure ulcers, wound care is an important topic for family caregivers to learn more about.
Smoothe Foods - Links
Smoothe Foods - Links
http://www.caring.com
Dysphagia:
http://www.nfosd.com
http://www.Asha.org
http://www.NIH.gov
http://www.webmd.com
http://www.alsa.org
http://www.cancer.org
http://www.cancer.org
http://www.ninds.nih.gov
http://www.stroke.org
http://www.alz.org
http://www.swallowingdisorderfoundation.com
http://www.americandysphagianetwork.org
http://www.nmsss.org
http://www.parkinson.org
Gastrointestinal:
http://www.gastro.org/patient-center
http://www.IFFGD.org
http://www.NIH.gov
http://www.webmd.com
Smoothe Foods Goals: Our goal is to provide so many positive outcomes.
Educate individuals, caregivers, and professionals - How to realize when someone can benefit from Smoothe foods due to swallowing issues thus avoiding malnutrition, dehydration and even pain. Also determine when Smoothe Foods can provide nutrition when someone experiences poor digestive functions or chewing sensitivity due to dental issues.
Nutritious, All Natural & Delicious High Quality Meals for better health - An alternative to sugar laden shakes, baby food and powdered or canned food. Just because you cannot eat regular food doesn’t mean you can't have good, healthy meals.
Convenience - The meals are convenient to prepare – just heat & eat!
Peace of mind - Offering great meals for nutritional and emotio
They love to provide you with tools to help keep you informed on progress and resources for various conditions. See links below. These organizations do not endorse products.
Caregivershttp://www.caring.com
Dysphagia:
http://www.nfosd.com
http://www.Asha.org
http://www.NIH.gov
http://www.webmd.com
http://www.alsa.org
http://www.cancer.org
http://www.cancer.org
http://www.ninds.nih.gov
http://www.stroke.org
http://www.alz.org
http://www.swallowingdisorderfoundation.com
http://www.americandysphagianetwork.org
http://www.nmsss.org
http://www.parkinson.org
Gastrointestinal:
http://www.gastro.org/patient-center
http://www.IFFGD.org
http://www.NIH.gov
http://www.webmd.com
Smoothe Foods Goals: Our goal is to provide so many positive outcomes.
Caregiver Daily Log
Caregiver Daily Log
If you've hired your caregiver privately, unless you provide an easy-to-use form the chances that your caregiver will consistently make note of what you need and want to know is slim. Some families ask their caregivers to record notes in a loose-leaf or spiral notebook, but without guidance about what to record, these notes tend to become shorter and shorter as time goes by.
The Caregiver Daily Log form is available for you to download and use. Remember to save it to your computer in a place you can remember. Print one two-sided sheet per caregiver per day. The easiest way to keep them organized for your caregiver(s) is to use a three-hole punch and keep them in a three-ring binder.
If you've hired your caregiver privately, unless you provide an easy-to-use form the chances that your caregiver will consistently make note of what you need and want to know is slim. Some families ask their caregivers to record notes in a loose-leaf or spiral notebook, but without guidance about what to record, these notes tend to become shorter and shorter as time goes by.
The Caregiver Daily Log form is available for you to download and use. Remember to save it to your computer in a place you can remember. Print one two-sided sheet per caregiver per day. The easiest way to keep them organized for your caregiver(s) is to use a three-hole punch and keep them in a three-ring binder.
"Advocates for Patient Friendly Hospitals"
"Advocates for Patient Friendly Hospitals"
"Patient Freindly Hospitals"
All-inclusive discussion of patient focused practices. Conversations concerning the many needs of patients who are strangers to hospitals, emergency departments, emergency rooms and the mind boggling array of inpatient and outpatient orginization.
Healthcare professionals can't respond with patient focused care unless they are trained and their organization has a common guidelines how to manage patient confusion, fear, cognitive issues and finding their way around the hospital.
"Patient Freindly Hospitals"
All-inclusive discussion of patient focused practices. Conversations concerning the many needs of patients who are strangers to hospitals, emergency departments, emergency rooms and the mind boggling array of inpatient and outpatient orginization.
Healthcare professionals can't respond with patient focused care unless they are trained and their organization has a common guidelines how to manage patient confusion, fear, cognitive issues and finding their way around the hospital.
Create A Better Day Café will be held the 4th Sunday of each month from 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Create A Better Day Café
Are
you caring for someone with Alzheimer's or other dementia? Create A
Better Day Café encourages socialization with other caregivers and loved
ones where you can just be yourself. This is a wonderful opportunity to
get out with your loved one and have an enjoyable afternoon. It's a
time to step out of the daily routine, leave the disease at the door,
and enjoy a positive experience in a supportive environment. The
afternoon will consist of conversation, music, arts, games,
refreshments, and most importantly, laughter. There is no cost. It is
open to anyone at any stage of the disease process accompanied by
friends, family, and loved ones.
Our Next Café is
Sunday
November 24th, 2013
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Create A Better Day Café will be held the 4th Sunday of each month from 1:00pm to 3:00pm
at Pleasantries Adult Day Services 195 Reservoir Street
Marlborough, MA.
at Pleasantries Adult Day Services 195 Reservoir Street
Marlborough, MA.
Call Tammy for more information at 508-481-0809
Due to possible cancellation from inclement weather or illness, please call prior to attending and listen to voice message
How to Widen a Doorway • Ron Hazelton Online
How to Widen a Doorway • Ron Hazelton Online • DIY Ideas & Projects: Learn how widen a doorway; includes details on inspection holes, removing wall coverings and installing new framing.
Related Project
In the course of widening this doorway, some damaged flooring was exposed. view a video that shows how that situation was handled.
.
Related Project
In the course of widening this doorway, some damaged flooring was exposed. view a video that shows how that situation was handled.
.
Palliative Care Services: Support For the Entire Family | Griswold
Palliative Care Services: Support For the Entire Family | Griswold: Caring For More Than Just the Patient
Palliative care services are also not focused solely on the patient. The palliative care team understands the important role that family members and friends play in the recovery and comfort of the patient. Part of the services offered include dealing with the emotional and spiritual needs of the patient and family. A chronic or life threatening illness can take a heavy emotional toll. The palliative care team will help reduce the stress of the family caretakers.
Costs are always a concern when it comes to medical issues. As most palliative care takes place in a hospital or nursing home, for the most part it is typically covered by insurance including Medicare and Medicaid. If payment is an issue, a palliative care team member can help determine which payment options are best for you.
Palliative care teams understand the stresses that you and your family face. The anxiety, fatigue, depression, and pain that can become part of coping with a chronic illness do not have to become the center of everyone’s attention and the focus of their energy. For an older adult with a serious or chronic disease, palliative care can add an additional layer of support and care for the patient and family members.
Palliative care services are also not focused solely on the patient. The palliative care team understands the important role that family members and friends play in the recovery and comfort of the patient. Part of the services offered include dealing with the emotional and spiritual needs of the patient and family. A chronic or life threatening illness can take a heavy emotional toll. The palliative care team will help reduce the stress of the family caretakers.
Costs are always a concern when it comes to medical issues. As most palliative care takes place in a hospital or nursing home, for the most part it is typically covered by insurance including Medicare and Medicaid. If payment is an issue, a palliative care team member can help determine which payment options are best for you.
Palliative care teams understand the stresses that you and your family face. The anxiety, fatigue, depression, and pain that can become part of coping with a chronic illness do not have to become the center of everyone’s attention and the focus of their energy. For an older adult with a serious or chronic disease, palliative care can add an additional layer of support and care for the patient and family members.
Dementia: How to Protect Your Family Member in a Nursing Home | Alzheimer's Speaks Blog
Dementia: How to Protect Your Family Member in a Nursing Home | Alzheimer's Speaks Blog: Key Points When Choosing a Home
When you’re looking at different nursing homes, there are different things to look at and consider. By taking a look at these points, you’ll know exactly what kind of a home that your loved one is living at.
· You should start by checking out the Nursing Home Compare program provided by the Medicare website. This online programs allow you to view if they have any recent penalties, what they scored on their last inspection, and how they rate in comparison to other nursing homes in the area.
· Look at the staffing. Especially if your loved one is diagnosed with dementia—they are going to be in need of constant care. Look at the ratio of aid to patients on the nursing home compare website. Ask the employees how often they switch patients. You can also find this information on the Nursing Home Compare website. You’re paying the money—make sure you are getting what you ask for.
When you’re looking at different nursing homes, there are different things to look at and consider. By taking a look at these points, you’ll know exactly what kind of a home that your loved one is living at.
· You should start by checking out the Nursing Home Compare program provided by the Medicare website. This online programs allow you to view if they have any recent penalties, what they scored on their last inspection, and how they rate in comparison to other nursing homes in the area.
· Look at the staffing. Especially if your loved one is diagnosed with dementia—they are going to be in need of constant care. Look at the ratio of aid to patients on the nursing home compare website. Ask the employees how often they switch patients. You can also find this information on the Nursing Home Compare website. You’re paying the money—make sure you are getting what you ask for.
Training & Workshop Schedule | SBDC | Clark University
Training & Workshop Schedule | SBDC | Clark University: Your First Business Plan
Thursday, November 21, 2013
8:45 – 12 noon
Grace Conference Room, Higgins University Center
This next program covers a topic that is critically important with the start-up process of a small business and can also be beneficial to existing businesses that may be ready to expand. After you have proven the feasibility of your concept, limited your risk, analyzed your financials, and developed a marketing plan – how do you package all of this information together so you can really get your business started?
Our team of expert advisors enjoy working with people who are ready to get their businesses started. Developing a winning business plan can be invaluable as a management planning tool and or as a loan proposal. The business plan becomes the blueprint that an entrepreneur can follow to avoid the pitfalls that await every small business owner. This program is designed to guide the participants on a step by step journey to develop a thorough and comprehensive Business Plan.
Topics that will be included are:
• What a banker looks for in a business plan
• Defining the business
• Describing the target markets
• The marketing/advertising program
• Projected balance sheets
• Projected income statements
• Projected cash flow projections
Thursday, November 21, 2013
8:45 – 12 noon
Grace Conference Room, Higgins University Center
This next program covers a topic that is critically important with the start-up process of a small business and can also be beneficial to existing businesses that may be ready to expand. After you have proven the feasibility of your concept, limited your risk, analyzed your financials, and developed a marketing plan – how do you package all of this information together so you can really get your business started?
Our team of expert advisors enjoy working with people who are ready to get their businesses started. Developing a winning business plan can be invaluable as a management planning tool and or as a loan proposal. The business plan becomes the blueprint that an entrepreneur can follow to avoid the pitfalls that await every small business owner. This program is designed to guide the participants on a step by step journey to develop a thorough and comprehensive Business Plan.
Topics that will be included are:
• What a banker looks for in a business plan
• Defining the business
• Describing the target markets
• The marketing/advertising program
• Projected balance sheets
• Projected income statements
• Projected cash flow projections
When Cognition & Hearing Loss Collide
When Cognition & Hearing Loss Collide: When Cognition & Hearing Loss Collide
By Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer
(Page 1 of 2)
While it’s not “new” news, study results reported in the January 2013 Journal of the Medical Association Internal Medicine are confirming what many professionals have believed: that cognitive loss and hearing loss collide on a large scale.
The study, from the John Hopkins University School of Medicine, is the first of its kind and is viewing long-term brain function impacted by hearing loss. When the study began in 2001, the 1,984 participants (in the age range of 75 to 84) were in good health and had no cognitive impairment. Over a period of six years, hearing and brain cognition tests were administered. Study researchers determined that brain ability was in direct correlation to hearing loss. Those who did have hearing loss suffered more substantial cognitive impairment more than three years sooner than others with normal hearing levels.
By Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer
(Page 1 of 2)
If you find a loved one asking repetitive questions, becoming more confused and forgetful, you may assume they have dementia, but the cause could be hearing loss.
While it’s not “new” news, study results reported in the January 2013 Journal of the Medical Association Internal Medicine are confirming what many professionals have believed: that cognitive loss and hearing loss collide on a large scale.
The study, from the John Hopkins University School of Medicine, is the first of its kind and is viewing long-term brain function impacted by hearing loss. When the study began in 2001, the 1,984 participants (in the age range of 75 to 84) were in good health and had no cognitive impairment. Over a period of six years, hearing and brain cognition tests were administered. Study researchers determined that brain ability was in direct correlation to hearing loss. Those who did have hearing loss suffered more substantial cognitive impairment more than three years sooner than others with normal hearing levels.
Links | GeriPal - Geriatrics and Palliative Care Blog
Links | GeriPal - Geriatrics and Palliative Care Blog: Home
Links
We are populating a new list of links for national geriatrics and palliative care organizations (in addition to the blog role that is on our main page). Let us know if you have other sites that you think should be on this list!
Welcome to GeriPal
GeriPal (Geriatrics and Palliative care) is a forum for discourse, recent news and research, and freethinking commentary. Our objectives are: 1) to create an online community of interdisciplinary providers interested in geriatrics or palliative care; 2) to provide an open forum for the exchange of ideas and disruptive commentary that changes clinical practice and health care policy; and 3) to change the world.
Who is GeriPal
GeriPal was founded by Eric Widera and Alex Smith.
Contributors include Theresa Allison, Bob Arnold, Shaida Talebreza Brandon, Helen Chen, Amy Corcoran, Ken Covinsky, Anne Johnson, Bree Johnston, Helen Kao, Chrissy Kistler, Leslie Kernisan, Sei Lee, Hillary Lum, Susan Lysaght, Dan Matlock, Brad Miller, Aanand Naik, Carla Perissinotto, VJ Periyakoil, Mike Steinman, Rebecca Sudore, Tanya Lugliani Stewart, Brad Stuart, Paul Tatum, Julie Thai, Ori Tzvieli, Patrice Villars, Lindsey Yourman, and Ron Walent.
Links
We are populating a new list of links for national geriatrics and palliative care organizations (in addition to the blog role that is on our main page). Let us know if you have other sites that you think should be on this list!
Welcome to GeriPal
GeriPal (Geriatrics and Palliative care) is a forum for discourse, recent news and research, and freethinking commentary. Our objectives are: 1) to create an online community of interdisciplinary providers interested in geriatrics or palliative care; 2) to provide an open forum for the exchange of ideas and disruptive commentary that changes clinical practice and health care policy; and 3) to change the world.
Who is GeriPal
GeriPal was founded by Eric Widera and Alex Smith.
Contributors include Theresa Allison, Bob Arnold, Shaida Talebreza Brandon, Helen Chen, Amy Corcoran, Ken Covinsky, Anne Johnson, Bree Johnston, Helen Kao, Chrissy Kistler, Leslie Kernisan, Sei Lee, Hillary Lum, Susan Lysaght, Dan Matlock, Brad Miller, Aanand Naik, Carla Perissinotto, VJ Periyakoil, Mike Steinman, Rebecca Sudore, Tanya Lugliani Stewart, Brad Stuart, Paul Tatum, Julie Thai, Ori Tzvieli, Patrice Villars, Lindsey Yourman, and Ron Walent.
Alzheimer's Navigator an Alzheimer's Association service
Alzheimer's Navigator: Map out a plan to approach Alzheimer's
When facing Alzheimer's disease, there are a lot of things to consider. Alzheimer's Navigator helps guide you to answers by creating a personalized action plan and linking you to information, support and local resources.
You can move at your own pace
Create your private profile and complete the Welcome Survey.
Take short surveys pertaining to your needs with:
Planning for the Future
Working with Doctor/Healthcare Professionals
Caregiver Support
Activities of Daily Living
Home Safety
Driving
Knowledge of Alzheimer's
Review your action plan to get more information, support and local resources.
When facing Alzheimer's disease, there are a lot of things to consider. Alzheimer's Navigator helps guide you to answers by creating a personalized action plan and linking you to information, support and local resources.
You can move at your own pace
Create your private profile and complete the Welcome Survey.
Take short surveys pertaining to your needs with:
Planning for the Future
Working with Doctor/Healthcare Professionals
Caregiver Support
Activities of Daily Living
Home Safety
Driving
Knowledge of Alzheimer's
Review your action plan to get more information, support and local resources.
How to help if someone you care for has a fall | Stroke4Carers
How to help if someone you care for has a fall | Stroke4Carers: How to help if someone you care for has a fall
Video running time: 07.13 minutes. The film may take time to download depending on your broadband speed.
To enlarge to full screen click on the arrows at the bottom right of the frame.
If you are having problems playing the video, download the clip here [.mp4, 28.6 MB] (Right click this link, and “Save As”). http://www.stroke4carers.org/wp-content/uploads/GETTING_UP_AFTER_A_FALL.mp4
Video running time: 07.13 minutes. The film may take time to download depending on your broadband speed.
To enlarge to full screen click on the arrows at the bottom right of the frame.
If you are having problems playing the video, download the clip here [.mp4, 28.6 MB] (Right click this link, and “Save As”). http://www.stroke4carers.org/wp-content/uploads/GETTING_UP_AFTER_A_FALL.mp4
Carers Chill4us | Support Care and Friendship
Carers Chill4us | Support Care and Friendship: Elderly and disabled people who need care in their own homes have been hit with rises of up to 160 per cent in their bills in just five years, new research shows.
By John Bingham, Social Affairs Editor
7:00AM BST 19 Sep 2013
New care measure 'sets bar too high' for elderly and disabled, say charities Home care fees rise by up to 160pc as rationing takes hold Photo: IAN JONES
The number of areas in which the state support for care is available to anyone other than the most frail has also halved in the same period, it discloses.
A study by Which?, the consumer rights group, exposes the full extent to which councils are rationing care as they attempt to absorb major cuts to their budgets.
Based on information obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, it discloses that there are now only 12 local authorities in England and Wales still offering care to people whose needs are officially assessed as “moderate”. Five years ago it was able to identify 26 areas where this was still available
By John Bingham, Social Affairs Editor
7:00AM BST 19 Sep 2013
New care measure 'sets bar too high' for elderly and disabled, say charities Home care fees rise by up to 160pc as rationing takes hold Photo: IAN JONES
The number of areas in which the state support for care is available to anyone other than the most frail has also halved in the same period, it discloses.
A study by Which?, the consumer rights group, exposes the full extent to which councils are rationing care as they attempt to absorb major cuts to their budgets.
Based on information obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, it discloses that there are now only 12 local authorities in England and Wales still offering care to people whose needs are officially assessed as “moderate”. Five years ago it was able to identify 26 areas where this was still available
Questions to Ask When Your Aging Parent is Discharged from the Hospital - eCaring Forum
Questions to Ask When Your Aging Parent is Discharged from the Hospital
Posted on September 9, 2013 by Melody Wilding
If your parent is returning home after discharge, be prepared with this comprehensive list of questions to ask the discharge planner.
About your loved one’s health condition:
eCaring.com | Better Lives through Better Care | About Us: eCaring was started by family members responsible for coordinating and planning 24 hour home care for their elderly parents.
Responding to the difficulties and challenges of providing such care, they reached out to find the best professional and practical expertise of health care-industry professionals.
In doing so, they created eCaring:
a complete, Web-based system
for recording, monitoring, and managing
health at home
==
Questions to Ask When Your Aging Parent is Discharged from the Hospital - eCaring Forum:
Posted on September 9, 2013 by Melody Wilding
If your parent is returning home after discharge, be prepared with this comprehensive list of questions to ask the discharge planner.
About your loved one’s health condition:
- Please explain the diagnosis at discharge.
- What milestones and setbacks can we expect during recovery?
- What follow-up appointments are needed and with whom? Who is scheduling them?
- Where will these appointments take place? At home? In the office?
- Who can I call with questions?
- What types of health care services have been prescribed? (physical therapy, home health service)
- How long are these services needed for?
- Who is paying for them?
- What date and time will my loved one be discharged?
- How do you suggest the transfer to the home be made (car, taxi, ambulance)? Is an escort necessary?
- What equipment will we need in the home? (hospital bed, oxygen tank, wheelchair, bedside commode)
- Can you demonstrate how to use equipment we are unfamiliar with?
- Who pays for this equipment?
- How do reorder supplies and who do we call with problems?
- What type of supervision and level of personal care will my loved one need?
- Can you or the appropriate person teach me techniques for skills I need to perform such as giving injections or changing dressings?
- What, if any, special dietary restrictions does my loved one have?
- What medication has been prescribed?
- What side effects are associated with these medications? (falls, confusion, nausea)
eCaring.com | Better Lives through Better Care | About Us: eCaring was started by family members responsible for coordinating and planning 24 hour home care for their elderly parents.
Responding to the difficulties and challenges of providing such care, they reached out to find the best professional and practical expertise of health care-industry professionals.
In doing so, they created eCaring:
a complete, Web-based system
for recording, monitoring, and managing
health at home
==
eCaring Payroll Module http://ecaring.com/payroll-module
For families paying for home health care, and agencies providing it, eCaring provides the best possible report for time worked and wages, up-to-date and easily accessibleQuestions to Ask When Your Aging Parent is Discharged from the Hospital - eCaring Forum:
Choosing a Care Facility: Evaluate the Financial Issues
Choosing a Care Facility: Evaluate the Financial Issues: Choosing a Care Facility: Evaluate the Financial Issues
The final factor you need to address when evaluating a care facility is finances. A stay in a care facility is not inexpensive, and you should make sure that you understand exactly what fees will be charged, and what services your loved one will receive in return.
Any contract between the resident and facility should clearly state the costs, dates of admission, services provided, and discharge and transfer conditions. You should also ask to see a list of fees for any services that aren't included in the basic rate. Finally, be sure to compare the costs of the different facilities that you are considering.
The final factor you need to address when evaluating a care facility is finances. A stay in a care facility is not inexpensive, and you should make sure that you understand exactly what fees will be charged, and what services your loved one will receive in return.
Any contract between the resident and facility should clearly state the costs, dates of admission, services provided, and discharge and transfer conditions. You should also ask to see a list of fees for any services that aren't included in the basic rate. Finally, be sure to compare the costs of the different facilities that you are considering.
Improve the care of people with in hospitals
New innovative training to improve the care of people with dementia in general hospitals: Pat Graham, Senior Nurse for Older People at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It’s so important for the care of people with dementia that all staff understand them and how best to meet their needs. The programme can be delivered in a very flexible way which means it can be accessed easily. Our staff have benefited greatly from the training and therefore so have our patients.”
The “Getting to Know Me” training materials can be downloaded free of charge from http://www.gmhiec.org.uk.
The project was funded by Greater Manchester Health, Innovation and Education Cluster (GM-HIEC).
The “Getting to Know Me” training materials can be downloaded free of charge from http://www.gmhiec.org.uk.
The project was funded by Greater Manchester Health, Innovation and Education Cluster (GM-HIEC).
Alzheimer's Caregiver Center | caregiving advice sorted by the stage of Alzheimer's progress.
Alzheimer's Association offers caregiving advice sorted by the stage you face as Alzheimer's progresses.
You are not alone. The Alzheimer's Association is here to help.
http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-early-mild-stage-caregiving.asp
http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-mid-moderate-stage-caregiving.asp
http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-late-end-stage-caregiving.asp
Caregiver's Discussion Group:
"ALZConnected is a place where I can safely share my concerns and get advice."
State Medicaid Hospice Services - Hospice Patients Alliance
State Medicaid Hospice Services - Hospice Patients Alliance: Hospice Patients Alliance: Consumer Advocates
Medicaid Reimbursed Hospice Services
Health Care Financing Administration website's public information on state Medicaid hospice services.
www.hcfa.gov/medicaid/ltc2.htm but HCFA is now Centers for Medicare Services.
See Hospice Medicaid regulation information at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CFCsAndCoPs/05_Hospice.asp
or http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_04/42cfr418_04.html
Permission was granted to share these articles with others, to print them, or post them on other websites so long as credit is given to the author and Hospice Patients Alliance with a link to this original page.
Back to Articles by Ron Panzer
Medicaid Reimbursed Hospice Services
Health Care Financing Administration website's public information on state Medicaid hospice services.
www.hcfa.gov/medicaid/ltc2.htm but HCFA is now Centers for Medicare Services.
See Hospice Medicaid regulation information at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CFCsAndCoPs/05_Hospice.asp
or http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_04/42cfr418_04.html
Permission was granted to share these articles with others, to print them, or post them on other websites so long as credit is given to the author and Hospice Patients Alliance with a link to this original page.
Back to Articles by Ron Panzer
Welcome to the I CAN! I WILL! Library | Alzheimer's Disease International
Welcome to the I CAN! I WILL! Library | Alzheimer's Disease International
Welcome to the I CAN! I WILL! Library
I CAN! I WILL! is a library of ideas to help people around the world stand up and speak out about Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.
These ideas, which raise awareness about dementia and help to erase the stigma, have been contributed by people just like you - people with dementia, care partners, medical professionals, volunteers and advocates - so that you can learn from their experiences and they can learn from you.
The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) UK
The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS): Welcome
Welcome to the ADASS Website - the home of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, and the voice of adult social care. The site contains the whole range of policy initiatives, press releases and consultation responses that constitute so much of the daily activity of the Association's members, and is regularly updated.
The main contact details of the Association can be found at the foot of every page. Please post comments about this site - we value your views.
Welcome to the ADASS Website - the home of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, and the voice of adult social care. The site contains the whole range of policy initiatives, press releases and consultation responses that constitute so much of the daily activity of the Association's members, and is regularly updated.
The main contact details of the Association can be found at the foot of every page. Please post comments about this site - we value your views.
Retrofitting or Assisted Living | The BMA Blog
Retrofitting or Assisted Living | The BMA Blog: Retrofitting or Assisted Living
By Rick Banas of senior living and assisted living provider BMA Management, Ltd.
Neighborhood houses
Which might better? Retrofitting the house to accommodate aging in place or moving into a senior living or assisted living community?
Here are things to consider.
By Rick Banas of senior living and assisted living provider BMA Management, Ltd.
Neighborhood houses
Which might better? Retrofitting the house to accommodate aging in place or moving into a senior living or assisted living community?
Here are things to consider.
Please read: Talking Point updates
Please read: Talking Point updates
The main changes are outlined in the following posts, but if you have any questions or there is anything you’re not sure about, please post below or email talkingpoint@alzheimers.org.uk, and a member of the Talking Point team will get back to you as soon as possible.
1. New sub-forums
2. New drop-down menus and links to Alzheimer's Society resources
3. Members' personal menu options have moved
4. Moved buttons
5. Re-worded commands
The main changes are outlined in the following posts, but if you have any questions or there is anything you’re not sure about, please post below or email talkingpoint@alzheimers.org.uk, and a member of the Talking Point team will get back to you as soon as possible.
1. New sub-forums
2. New drop-down menus and links to Alzheimer's Society resources
3. Members' personal menu options have moved
4. Moved buttons
5. Re-worded commands
Grief for Spouse with Dementia | Lesley Postle Sydney Area, Australia
Grief for Spouse with Dementia or Alzheimer's
Lesley Postle wrote:
"Grief and loss can occur when the loved one is still alive, yet their personality and individuality has gone. Your spouse with dementia or Alzheimer's is gradually changing before your eyes and is becoming more and more dependent. You grieve for the loved one you had, whilst caring for the totally dependent person they have become."
"This long, slow loss of a loved one is a painful, difficult time for those coping with their home care. The husband who used to do all the DIY, gardening and deal with the household finances becomes like a child who has to be told what to wear and when to eat. The wife who used to be a great cook and homemaker becomes the child again. She has to be given food to eat, she can’t shop anymore as she comes home with pounds of tomatoes and nothing else. They are still with you, they have the same smile, they may appear outwardly normal, but the ability to cope alone is gone and they become totally dependent. Grief for Spouse with Dementia:"
Websites include www.pumpkinlicious.com - Owner
Lesley Postle wrote:
"Grief and loss can occur when the loved one is still alive, yet their personality and individuality has gone. Your spouse with dementia or Alzheimer's is gradually changing before your eyes and is becoming more and more dependent. You grieve for the loved one you had, whilst caring for the totally dependent person they have become."
"This long, slow loss of a loved one is a painful, difficult time for those coping with their home care. The husband who used to do all the DIY, gardening and deal with the household finances becomes like a child who has to be told what to wear and when to eat. The wife who used to be a great cook and homemaker becomes the child again. She has to be given food to eat, she can’t shop anymore as she comes home with pounds of tomatoes and nothing else. They are still with you, they have the same smile, they may appear outwardly normal, but the ability to cope alone is gone and they become totally dependent. Grief for Spouse with Dementia:"
Lesley Postle
Sydney Area, Australia
Websites include www.pumpkinlicious.com - Owner
www.griefandsympathy.com - Owner
www.sarahkeyphysiotherapy.com - builder
www.simplebackpain.com - builder
Her contact page on www.decolish.com
This Caring Home
This Caring Home
Rosemary Bakker is the creator and director of ThisCaringHome.org. She is also an interior designer, gerontologist, keynote speaker, and former caregiver to a mother with Alzheimer’s disease. She understands first-hand how difficult and rewarding caregiving can be. Most importantly, she learned how a dementia-friendly environment can make caregiving less difficult and more fulfilling. Rosemary is the recipient of many awards for her innovative education and has authored two books on interior design and aging, including Lark Books: The AARP Guide to Revitalizing Your Home: Beautiful Living for the Second Half of Life (2010). Rosemary is available for 1) Training and Speaking Engagements and 2) Design Consultations.
1) Training and Speaking Engagements
Rosemary brings a fresh innovative approach to dementia care training. Her lively presentations give professional and family caregivers the tips and tools they need to transform an ordinary dwelling into a dementia-friendly home. Learn about inspiring and practical solutions to everyday caregiving problems that enhance safety and well-being and help the person with dementia live a fuller, more meaningful life.
Keynote speeches, workshops, and lunchtime presentations can be customized to fit the needs of the audience, including healthcare providers, human resources, and family caregivers. Training on how to use ThisCaringHome as a vital resource can also be provided for service professionals.
Presentation Topics
Presentations cover a wide array of home safety and caregiving topics, including:
Rosemary Bakker is the creator and director of ThisCaringHome.org. She is also an interior designer, gerontologist, keynote speaker, and former caregiver to a mother with Alzheimer’s disease. She understands first-hand how difficult and rewarding caregiving can be. Most importantly, she learned how a dementia-friendly environment can make caregiving less difficult and more fulfilling. Rosemary is the recipient of many awards for her innovative education and has authored two books on interior design and aging, including Lark Books: The AARP Guide to Revitalizing Your Home: Beautiful Living for the Second Half of Life (2010). Rosemary is available for 1) Training and Speaking Engagements and 2) Design Consultations.
Rosemary brings a fresh innovative approach to dementia care training. Her lively presentations give professional and family caregivers the tips and tools they need to transform an ordinary dwelling into a dementia-friendly home. Learn about inspiring and practical solutions to everyday caregiving problems that enhance safety and well-being and help the person with dementia live a fuller, more meaningful life.
Keynote speeches, workshops, and lunchtime presentations can be customized to fit the needs of the audience, including healthcare providers, human resources, and family caregivers. Training on how to use ThisCaringHome as a vital resource can also be provided for service professionals.
Presentations cover a wide array of home safety and caregiving topics, including:
- Memory Aides
- 7 Steps to Better Bathing
- Cooking Safety
- Better Mealtimes
- Smart Home Devices
- Wandering Technologies
- Therapeutic & Fun Activities
- Dementia-Friendly Interior Design
- A Calmer Day: Reducing Agitation
Senior Housing Forum exists to address issues and ideas that directly relate to the senior housing industry. It is published by Steve Moran a 30+ year senior housing veteran.
The following article was authored by Karen Austin
While teaching college English for 30 years, I thought I knew a great deal about the human mind. After all, I was teaching critical thinking. Entering the field of gerontology has brought me to a greater awareness of how the brain works. As people experience changes based on trauma, disease or even just the passing of time, we can see brain functions that we take for granted.
Because of my area of research and my blog, I frequently have friends and acquaintances ask me if a parent’s changing cognition is a sign of dementia, specifically Alzheimer’s disease. I am not a neurologist, so I am not qualified to assess. I ask them to schedule an appointment with their parent’s general practitioner.
Nevertheless, I provide an overview of some of the many reasons why an aging parent might demonstrate a change in cognition.
Age-related Cognitive Changes. By the time people reach their 40s, they usually notice it’s harder to retrieve names with ease. As we age, we experience cognitive slowing. This makes it harder to multi-task, and it takes longer to retrieve information. We also think better with fewer distractions.
Mild Cognitive Impairment. This diagnosis emerged in the 1990s as a midpoint between normal age-related changes and dementia. People with MCI experience cognitive changes greater than their age and educational level; however, they can still perform day-to-day functions. Only 30% will progress to dementia over 10 years. The rest hold steady or return to former cognitive levels.
Delirium. Often rapid change in cognition is due to delirium, brought on by dehydration, infection, sleep deprivation or incorrect use of prescription medication. It’s important to get immediate medical attention to treat the underlying problem causing the mental confusion.
Hospital-induced psychosis. Many people suffering from the shock of a medical problem will have a dramatic change in cognition affecting memory. Infection or pain medication can cause or contribute to an altered mental state. The effects sometimes extend beyond the hospital stay, morphing into post-traumatic stress disorder.
Psychological Disorders. Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder are just a few of the psychological disorders that can affect a person’s attention, concentration, executive function and memory. Depression is particularly under diagnosed and under-treated among older adults.
Drug or Alcohol Abuse. If a younger person behaves oddly, people will too often assume drug or alcohol abuse when it could be something else. Too often older people are pronounced “senile” when the cause for their cognitive disorder could be substance abuse.
Strokes or TIAs. If the cognitive change is sudden, the underlying cause could be a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA). The person needs immediate medical attention.
Concussion or Traumatic Brain Injury. If a person has suffered a blow to the head from a fall or another type of accident, they might have a concussion. Or the injury could result in a traumatic brain injury, which is more serious.
Dementia. Yes, sometimes cognitive changes to signal the early stages of dementia from Alzheimer’s Disease, vascular dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington Disease or another disease. It’s vital to get an assessment with a cognitive tool such as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). A doctor might first administer a shorter test in the office before referring to a neurologist or another specialist for more extensive testing.
Most often, cognitive changes are age-related, and the adult child is overly concerned. Nevertheless, sometimes a more serious problem causes the change in mental functioning, which requires attention from a medical professional. Learn more about the causes listed above by consulting qualified sources on the Internet, in print or in person.
When you are dealing with family members of residents who have cognitive changes, how do you help them with this painful reality?
Karen Austin blogs about aging at The Generation Above Me
Presented with permission from Steve Moran -
Steve's Bio
I am the publisher of Senior Housing Forum. In the early 80's shortly after graduating from college I stumbled into the senior housing industry. I started by operating and later developing a number of small 15 bed buildings (I was young, foolish and not terribly successful). For the next 20 or so years I worked in and around the senior housing developing and operating CCRC's and freestanding single level of care communities.
I took a 10 year detour into high tech but found that senior housing was my first love.
I am currently an account manager for Vigil Health Solutions where we provide the finest emergency call systems for independent living, assisted living, skilled living and dementia units. (www.vigil.com)
Steve
smoran@seniorhousingforum.net
Better Day Café Next Café is Sunday, July 28th, 2013 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Better Day Café
Next Café is
Sunday, July 28th, 2013
1:00pm to 3:00pm
Create A Better Day Café will be held the 4th Sunday of each month from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at Pleasantries Adult Day Services 195 Reservoir Street Marlborough, MA.
Call Tammy for more information at 508-335-1968
---
http://alzheimercafes.blogspot.com/
Alzheimer's Cafes Worldwide
Cafes come by a number of names, Memory Cafes, Alzheimer's Cafes, Dementia Cafes. In the UK many have been in existence for several years. Currently the concept is gaining momentum and hundreds of memory cafes sprouting up everywhere. The concept is to provide a social occasion, a meetup, for anyone with dementia / Alzheimer's, their care givers and family. They are informal and generally free. Activities vary. Support and funding depends on the host-provider and contributions. Ish's, Ishmael's, Knowledge Network blogs, web sites, groups
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