Caregiver Corner

Sundowning refers to a group of symptoms where individuals with dementia experience increased confusion, agitation, anxiety and other behavioral changes during the late afternoon, evening, and night. Sundowning is not a disease itself but rather a common pattern of behavior linked to the progression of dementia, particularly in the middle to later stages.  ...

Brushing teeth can easily fall to the wayside for many individuals with dementia. And for many caregivers, it takes everything they have just to get through the day, so oral hygiene may not be a priority. But skipping this daily maintenance can result in compromised overall health. ...

Spending time outdoors, even in the cold, misting rain and warm sunshine, was something my mom — and now research — both encourage and support. Everyone can benefit from going outdoors at least 10 minutes a day. Building a sun or outdoor break into our daily routines can be critical to better health. ...

If your goal is to stay at home as you age, it's time to reexamine your current health and home. Are you willing to adapt, modify and change to meet your changing needs as they evolve? ...

Is your older loved one in denial about their increasing forgetfulness and weaknesses? The lack of self-awareness or the inability to realize one’s limitations is known as “anosognosia dementia.” This isn't willful denial. Rooted in neurological changes, 98% of those with dementia also have anosognosia. ...

For those with dementia, anger is often a secondary emotion in response to something like shame, humiliation or embarrassment. As caregivers, we should try to understand the emotion behind the emotion. Are we coming across as condescending or patronizing? This will trigger anger in our loved ones. Individuals with dementia need support and patience. ...

Always stopped up? Or too loose? Our bowel habits are something no one really wants to talk about, but we need to. Over 60% of older adults have issues with their bowels at some point. Our bowels greatly affect every aspect of our bodies and overall quality of life. Better balance is achievable. ...

Accepting the effects of aging can be a tough pill to swallow. We think we must hold on tightly to our lifelong identities, or else who will we be? Some people are more willing to accept the hands of time. Others are never going to accept the changing realities of their lifespan. What can we do when a loved one cannnot admit they need help, support and assistance?   ...