Pain matters. The discomfort of it directly affects quality of life, while pain is also a natural signal that something is wrong. New or unexpected pain might even suggest an unrecognized infection or illness that is putting the senior at risk. As such, it’s crucial to recognize pain and respond to it promptly. Doing so […]
Dementia
Do Dementia Patients Know They Are Dying?
Dementia is often seen as one of the most terrifying health issues one can face. Much of the reason is that people with dementia don’t just lose physical function, their mental function decreases as well. People with dementia often become shadows of their former selves, with losses in their ability to understand and engage with […]
Do People With Dementia Know They Have It?
Family caregivers often have questions about dementia and awareness. Do people with dementia know they have it? Are they aware of the changes that are happening in their behavior and mind? There are two big reasons why you might ask this. The first relates to how much the senior is suffering. Seniors who are aware […]
Understanding Sundowning Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Strategies for Care
One of the challenging parts of dementia care is responding to new and often stressful behaviors. These may make little sense, especially to caregivers who are figuring things out as they go, without the benefit of much caregiver education. One such phenomenon is sundowning syndrome, which is often associated with dementia, where individuals experience heightened […]
How Facilities Can Promote the Best Outcomes for Seniors with Dementia
Nursing homes, memory care facilities, and other environments are powerful sources of care for seniors with dementia. They become crucial when the senior can no longer safely live on their own or with loved ones. Yet, the care provided can vary dramatically between facilities. Some places focus on person-centered dementia care, which includes an emphasis […]
How Caregivers Can Protect Seniors from Dementia Medication Abuse
Medication abuse is a grave issue for seniors diagnosed with dementia. Far too often, nursing homes and other facilities use powerful antipsychotics and related medication, not to help residents, but rather in an attempt to control their behavior. These medications aren’t just ineffective. They can also be dangerous, as they can raise the risk of […]