Are dementia patients aware of their condition? Many people struggle with a parent in denial about dementia or a spouse in denial of dementia. Dementia-impaired judgment can cause distorted perceptions of reality. However, it’s important to note that being in denial about dementia is different from anosognosia, which means simply not knowing you have dementia. … Continued
Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, is the narrowing of arteries due to fatty deposits. This results in reduced blood flow from the heart to arteries in other body parts. This most often occurs in the legs but it can also affect the arms, stomach, head, and kidneys. PAD most often occurs in people over 65, … Continued
Cognitive diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are debilitating and demoralizing, both for those who suffer from the disease as well as their caregivers. Because these diseases are so dreadful, research is almost constantly being done to find treatments and therapies to cure the diseases, and if not cure them, at least effectively treat some … Continued
Toileting is a task we all want to be able to manage on our own, but what if we have an illness that prohibits us from doing so? Is your loved one confined to bed after surgery, an accident, or a fall? When someone is incapacitated and cannot get out of bed assistance with toileting … Continued
Restlessness in elderly patients is often misunderstood. Older adults who experience nighttime sleep disturbances have difficulty functioning in the daytime. Lack of sleep can lead to agitation, increased confusion, depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. So, what are some causes of restlessness in elderly people and what can caregivers do to help alleviate it? … Continued
Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure or a staycation, we all want a happy, memorable trip! Now that travel restrictions are lifting, everyone is itching to get back out and travel again, especially older adults. According to AARP’s 2022 Travel Trends Report, 67% of people over 50 are planning to travel this year. After the isolation … Continued
Hoarding is a difficult situation that affects around 4% of the population – although recent research suggests that the number is rising and is closer to 6% overall. Hoarding has a disproportionately negative effect on the elderly population, particularly impacting mobility and safety in the home. Understanding Hoarding in Older Adults There are many different … Continued
Seeing a loved one with dementia perform sexually inappropriate behaviors can be quite distressing. They could act inappropriately toward their spouse, children, or caregivers due to confusion and a number of other factors. But what causes these behaviors? And how can we deal with them? In this post, we will review everything you need to … Continued
There have been a lot of changes since the Covid-19 virus swept across our nation and the world. One of these changes is the way business is conducted in our doctor’s offices and hospitals. Mandates and restrictions have been in place to enhance the safety of patients and staff members. Those mandates and restrictions have … Continued
If you live with an elderly person, you may notice they are constantly clearing their throat. It is probably worse after meals, and it usually isn’t a gentle “ahem” either. It could be a lengthy and frankly disgusting sound. Turns out throat clearing is more than just an obnoxious sound, it can be an indicator … Continued