“I go to Nature to be soothed and healed,” said naturalist and author John Burroughs. There’s much wisdom in those words as there is more and more evidence that the outdoors is good for us, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It not only helps reduce symptoms of these conditions, but also lifts the […]
What is Dining Like In Memory Care?
Good food, proper nutrition, and a comfortable and satisfying mealtime experience are things every senior should have the opportunity to enjoy. And today’s modern senior living communities recognize that dining is key for health, vitality, and quality of life in every level of care, including memory care. Poor nutrition may increase behavioral symptoms and cause […]
10 Questions to Ask a Memory Care Community
Visiting a memory care community—whether in-person or online—is not only an excellent way to get the information you and your family need to make a decision about your loved one, it also gives you a “feel” for what life would be like for them. If possible, visit several communities. Schedule your first visit in-person, but […]
How to Decorate a Memory Care Room
Alzheimer’s and dementia may rob individuals of memories, but the desire for a relaxing, comfortable, and familiar home space never fades. As you prepare to move your loved one into a memory care setting, give some thought as to how you will decorate their space. For safety, for enjoyment, for overall ambiance and stimulation, the […]
What Happens in Memory Care
Considering memory care for a spouse or loved one can be confusing. You want to make the decision that feels right. It’s only natural to wrestle with feelings of guilt over whether you should try home care instead. But once you understand what is unique about memory care, and how it can benefit both your […]
Understanding the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
If you’ve been seeing lots of purple, here’s why: June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. The Alzheimer’s Association reminds us that worldwide, 50 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Now is a good time to educate yourself on the symptoms and stages of these diseases so that you can be better […]
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is Bittersweet
June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and as a care provider of the past 25 years, I find it to be very bittersweet. Yes of course, I am grateful to the Alzheimer’s Association for their efforts in education and compassion, but for most of us, the seeming prolonged morbidity for our loved ones takes a devastating […]
The Benefits of Music in Memory Care
Music and the brain have a unique relationship, and music therapy has proven to be highly effective in working with seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Music is an all-natural form of therapy, appealing to all five senses. Affecting mood, communication, and memory, music is a unique therapy technique for memory care in […]
The Benefits of Memory Care and What to Look For
Aging is part of life and for some it involves changes to their health and ability to care for themselves. Those struggling with memory issues especially require close supervision and a structured routine that family members are hard-pressed to provide. Still, it can be difficult to consider that their needs can best be met in […]
What Is It Like to Have Dementia?
Dementia is an overall term for diseases and conditions that are characterized by a decline in memory, language and other thinking skills that interfere with a person’s ability to take part in everyday activities. Someone that has dementia feels confused most of the time and may not be able to make sense of the world […]