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We often forget to take care of ourselves when we are trying to take care of our loved ones who seem to need it more. Caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s can be extremely time consuming, but you have to make time for you. One of the most important parts of your health is making sure that you are

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Take care of yourself first Taking care of yourself, as a caregiver, should be your number one priority. The better you’re taken care of, the more effective you can be in your caretaking role. Unfortunately, this seems to be the most forgotten on the to-do list. The Effects on Your Health When you are in a caregiver role, it is

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We tend to think of our homes as safe places. Everything has its place and its purpose so that we are out of harm’s way for ourselves and our children. Unfortunately, we tend to forget seniors and the possible hazards that a come can create. As seniors get older, the things that were once safe can now cause them harm.

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Among the many struggles of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is communication.  It can be extremely frustrating, for both parties.  The first concern that caregivers and family members bring up during a consultation or support group is usually a problem with communication.  This can range from hyper-repetitive questions, usage of incorrect words and even cursing or offensive language.  There are

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Sundowning is a term given to those with Alzheimer’s who exhibit an increase in agitation and restlessness in the afternoon.  It has something to do with our circadian rhythm and everything to do with increased confusion.  My responsibility after school was to start the dinner that my mother had usually prepared in advance.  In addition, I was to set the

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Written by: Nancy McCaffrey,  Director of Operations, Terra Vista of Oakbrook Terrace & Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Ambassador I’m often asked how I got involved with Alzheimer’s care, both professionally and politically.  The reason is personal.  My Grandmother developed dementia when I was still a teenager.  My mother, her only child, was in her 40’s.  Our family lived on the East

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March is “Women’s History Month” and with that have come numerous online posts and articles about famous women in history, from Rosa Parks to Christa McAulliffe.   Although women have been making history since the existence of mankind, often their stories are given little recognition or not even told.   Currently, there is a large group of women whose stories need

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One of the most frustrating issues a dementia caregiver faces is the word “no”.   It seems to be the go-to answer for those with Alzheimer’s; “Do you need to go to the bathroom?” No.  “Are you hungry?” No.  “Let’s get you a shower?” No.   Even the most persistent caregiver can be worn down by the constant negative responses.

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A huge part of the holiday season is giving gifts.  Whether you like to give or receive, or both, it is an integral part of most celebrations regardless of beliefs.  Many of us struggle each year to find the “perfect” gifts for those in our lives.  If you have a loved one with dementia, then that perfect gift might be

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Traveling, in and of itself, can be daunting on its own.  I’m sure we have all experienced one or more of the pitfalls that can occur during a trip, such as delayed or canceled flights, lost reservations, etc…  These pitfalls can quickly multiply if you are traveling during the holiday season.  Its easy to imagine scenes from “Planes, Trains &

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