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Internet Provides Resources for Caregivers

09/112 Comments

The Internet Offers Resources for Caregivers

Sharing Forums, Videos, Conversation and Knowledge

Most Caregivers work alone with little help and fewer resources to help them. As many of us know a caregiver’s life can be lonely and toiled. Beth Kelly writes about this issue and how the Internet offers much needed Resources for Caregivers.

Resource for CaregiversCaring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia presents a myriad of everyday challenges that few understand. Beyond the purely physical scope of care, the emotional wear-and-tear on one’s psychological well-being is a very real and very under-reported aspect of this disease.

As the U.S. population continues to age at an increasingly rapid pace, even more seniors (and their caregivers) could use the help of resources both online and off.

However, for those charged with the responsibility of providing round-the-clock care, the Internet is often the easiest place to turn in times of need. It’s a place where people who understand the truly daunting task of standing witness to Alzheimer’s and offer Resources for Caregivers of Alzheimer’s folks. They can connect, compare notes, and engage in all kinds of mutually supportive activities with listening.

talk-to-parentsWe are each aware of the fact that it can be very stressful to be a caregiver. The sensation of “ambiguous loss” that comes from spending so much time assisting someone with a debilitating condition without the ability to properly grieve, can feel like a purgatory.

Caregivers report more health problems than members of the general public, and they have less time to pursue their own interests and for social interaction. Many spend over 10 percent of their personal income towards maintaining the health of their loved one with little or no help or Resources for the family Caregivers.

It’s often very difficult to discuss these and other problems with friends, family members or confidantes without these responsibilities because they can’t really understand what the experience is like. Many people are loathe to burden others with their problems, lest they become known as someone who dwells on negativity. Hence, the Caregiver Silence begins.

Yet a failure to get adequate support has many potential consequences. A lot of caregivers report depression, weight change, a lack of sleep, even alcohol or drug abuse. 

While there is still much that needs to be done for everyone currently watching over a loved one with Alzheimer’s, the connective potential of the global web helps individuals far and wide feel less alone in their personal battle.

support-caregivers
New digital devices and stronger high-speed internet connections are helping more people than ever, bringing some people in rural communities into the fold for the first time. These resources are highly important – after all, an estimated one third of the population in the United States plays the role of caregiver in some capacity.

There are live support groups, but with a busy schedule, it’s hard to find the time to attend local meetings and form meaningful bonds with others. Many people have therefore turned to the online communities, because their support and resources for Caregivers is always there, and often as simple as pressing a button.

Internet-based caregiver support has been found to improve self-confidence, lower stress levels, and reduce the risk of depression. While websites that contain information about proper caregiving can be helpful, the greatest benefit seems to come from online communities that allow for personal interactions. The online resources available include a caregiver support group operated by AARP, the Caregiver SOS website, and the National Institute of Health page, which contains links to many other helpful organizations.

Besides getting emotional support, the Internet can be used to find someone to help with actual caregiving tasks as well. CareBooker and Care.com allow regular individuals to take advantage of the services of professional caregivers who are available to work in their local areas. And other services that can be booked online, like pet sitting and housekeeping, allow caregivers to take advantage of some much-needed free “me” time.

Caregivers are selfless individuals who have dedicated themselves to ensuring the well-being of others. It’s critical that they get the support they need from our culture — a place where it is currently lacking. While there are plenty of websites and online-based services available, it’s important we share these communities and make everyone aware of the opportunities that exist online for caretakers of Alzheimer’s patients.

When the going gets tough, it feels much better to know that you’ve got someone on your side who is always ready to listen and offer resources that you need.

Author: Beth Kelly is a technology and security blogger, who primarily covers topics pertaining to healthcare tech, energy efficiency, and home security. You can follow her on Twitter at @bkelly_88


Filed Under: Caring for the Caregiver, Guest Post, News, The Caregiver Tagged With: Resources for Caregivers, Resources for Caregivers of dementia, Resources for family Caregivers

Gifts and Activities for Seniors

08/30Leave a Comment

Gifts and Activities for Seniors and those with  dementia

Alzheimer's-Gifts-by-Stages

It can be difficult to know the Best Gifts and Activities for Seniors with dementia

If you buy an electronic gift for someone with Alzheimer’s, you may want to keep their stage of dementia in mind.

Folks with Alzheimer’s love gifts as much as anyone though the Stage of their disease may influence the choice of gift.

==>> A brand new Cell phone might not be a good idea for someone with Alzheimer’s in Stage 6 or 7 <<==

If a loved one is in the later stages of Alzheimer’s, they may no longer understand the idea of holiday gift-giving at all. Though everyone appreciates the thoughtfulness that goes into choosing a special gift, there are times in life when a simple kiss on the cheek may be the best gift a person can receive. And who doesn’t like those?

Stages 1 and 2: Most folks with Alzheimer’s in stages 1 or 2 are seldom aware that they have an issue at all.  During this stage you may suspect that your memory is failing, but it’s doubtful that you’ve mentioned it to either friend, family or physician and it’a very unlikely to have been diagnosed at this stage. Any gift purchases for this group would not require consideration as far as memory loss is concerned.

 Samsung Galaxy [Prime] Black Bluetooth Android Xbox One Halo: The Master Chief Buxton RFID Identity Safe Wallet Panasonic Close Curves Amopé Pedi Perfect Nails Salon Manicure Peticure

Stages 3 and 4: During this stage you may find that you aren’t performing as well at work or have little retention for names of people that you’ve recently met. It also becomes a little more difficult to learn new things or ideas, or to retain new information that you may have learned during Stages 3-4.

During Stages 3-4 you may still be able to Read the hands on a clock, but may have difficulty recollecting things you learn more recently, especially any sort of new electronic gadget with many functions.

I say: “Thank goodness for grandchildren.” So far, my grandchildren never complain about my constant text messages and questions about any new electronic gadget that I’ve acquired.

Gadgets that help you stay in-touch are vital. Fitbit for health, Big Button Controller for the TV. A digital watch because you may be having issues with the hands on a regular clock. They are generally difficult to read fairly early-on. A journal is a must-have!

True, you will have notes all over the house but you still need a journal to store things away that you know you will forget later. A special Notebook. Only ONE special notebook or your special writings will get lost in the shuffle.

 Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity LIGHTED BIG BUTTON TV Digital Watch A Journal

I recently purchased a new Electronic Tablet and I love the darn thing. And, for the most part, the grandkiddos  know exactly what I’m talking about when I say “thing-a-mig-jig,” or “doo-dad“ because I’ve forgotten the real name for the Electronic tool I’m trying to use.

Example: “I couldn’t figure out why the camera didn’t work on my brand new tablet and  felt slightly foolish when my granddaughter reminded me that it wouldn’t work if the lens was hidden inside the case.”

 Samsung Galaxy Smartab Kids Tablet LG Electronics 10″ Tablet VTech Max Kids Tablet, Pink

I’m totally comfortable with my Kindle, probably because I’ve had it for a long time and there is nothing new to learn or remember. So the Tablet has been a little more difficult.

In the beginning, I intended to move all my books on the Kindle to the brand new Tablet, but seeing the slight difficulties I have with the Tablet, I decided to keep my books on the Kindle and have two devices rather than just one.

My older Sony Camera is simple and easy to use, so despite my desire for a new and fancier one, I’ll be keeping the easier one that I already know how to use. Most older folks love their camera. With traveling and grandchildren, a nice camera is a Must-Have. And it does fill an inner need to document things, at least for me.

 Sony Digital Camera Canon Digital Rebel Canon EOS Rebel Canon PowerShot

The issue with Electronic Gifts is the difficulty your loved one may have with learning something new. In later stages of Alzheimer’s it’s difficult, if not impossible to learn and remember new things. If your loved one has an electronic tool that they are familiar with, try upgrading what they already have rather than buying a brand new electronic tool. New information does not stick easily when someone has Alzheimer’s dementia. So the less information they need to retain to enjoy their new Electronic Gift– The Better.

Stages 5 and 6: During the later stages of Alzheimer’s, most appreciated electronics are the ones that help to make their life easier but do NOT require complicated instructions nor learning or remembering new things.

==>> These are a few Electronic Gifts that Are Awesome for almost any Stage of Alzheimer’s dementia! ==>> 

Photos are some of the best Christmas gifts for the elderly. I know, myself, that there is not a better gift than to receive photos from our children, adult children or our grandkids. I especially love these animated photos. If the photos are family members who don’t visit often, all the better. Watching the lively photo keeps the person constant in their memory.

 Micca M808z 8-Inch Pink smooth faux leather Pix-Star 10.4 Inch Micca 10.1-Inch Wide

Despite the fact that we’re talking Electronics, I can tell you that all the women and men I’ve known with Alzheimer’s love chocolate candy as much as I do. In later stages, when Mom lived in the Group Home, she would hide her candy and sweet treats because she was quite certain the ladies at the nursing home would steal them. By the time Mom finished-off a large package of M & M’s, she was certain someone else stole them.

M&M’s PeanutGolden State FruitWhitman’s Giant SamplerHealthy Snacks In-a-box

Some electronics are a necessity during the later stages, especially if your loved one still takes walks alone. There are many types of Electronic bracelets, or telephones, or other electronic devices that store valuable personal information including: Name, age, medical reference and phone number to contact if they become lost.

 The Medical ID Alert Bracelet Medical Alert USB Flash Drive Music Primo Voice Activated Alarm Clock Multimedia Monitor

There are many Electronic Gifts available for those with Alzheimer’s. Taking your loved ones level of Alzheimer’s in-mind, You will always make the Best Choice for Electronic Gifts.
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During the very late stages, most folks love seeing and hearing familiar things from their far distant past. As most of you know, my Mom’s favorite character was Bob Barker. She never failed to recognize him even after she forgot me. And these are some fun gifts for elderly folks since they are humorous but following a story line is not required.

Legends of CountrI Love Lucy ComicsLucille Ball RKOClassic WesternsThe Best of Tex RitterTo Hell and Back

 

 Women love the soft feel of Lifelike Baby dolls While the men are content with a lifelike breathing Puppy There are breathing Kitties for the Cat lover too

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Filed Under: Activities, Care Tips, Holidays Tagged With: Alzheimer's Gifts by Stages, Best Gifts for Alzheimer's, Best gifts for someone with dementia

Best Gifts for those with Alzheimer’s Dementia

08/179 Comments

Best Gifts for those with Alzheimer’s dementia

==> This article was written a couple years ago, but it is always in-demand this time of year. So I’ve spruced it up a little and here we have our favorite Holiday List <==

price-is-right

 

There are many gifts that make a person with Alzheimer’s dementia smile. But the Best gifts for those with Alzheimer’s dementia often depend on the individual personality.

My mom was easy to please when it came to gifts. If I gave her a stack of Oreo Cookies and a glass of milk, her eyes lit up like Christmas.

I don’t know about all folks who have dementia, but most that I’ve known are very affectionate, thankful and easy to please.

My Mom had many inhibitions about affection while my brothers and I were growing up. Hence, ours was not a very affectionate home. I knew my mother loved me, but she wasn’t a person to do a lot of hugging. Something that went far back into her own family roots, I suppose. Still, we always knew she loved us.

But some time during mid-stage Alzheimer’s Mom started hugging. It was almost like some buried inhibition had finally been forgotten and she was free to show the affection that she’d always felt. She did enough hugging and cheek-kissing during those last few years to make up for any lack of affection during the previous 60 years.

So buying gifts for my Mom was easy. She was a pleasant, happy person who loved to stay active. I think personality plays a big part in buying gifts for others, and that includes those with Alzheimer’s dementia.

Mom loved watching TV. She couldn’t follow the story-line of a movie, soap opera, or even half-hour drama. But she loved game shows. She would watch Television game shows all day long if I allowed it.

Some might think that is a lazy way to tend to someone with dementia, having them idly watch television for an hour or two.  I’ve heard others say that Movie and TV shows, etc., might be too sedentary for the person with dementia. But–you didn’t know my Mom. 

Bob Barker was Mom’s favorite. While she watched Bob Barker and (The Price is Right.) Mom giggled and laughed and clapped her hands. She popped up and down like a “jack in the box.” And Mom was on her feet as much as sitting while she applauded, hooted and squealed for every winner. Television game shows were no sedate activity for my MOM!

 Jeopardy! What’s My Line?: T Family Feud The Price Is Right

Other folks may not care for Television and have much more fun with Puzzles and Beads and Blocks. Almost everyone I’ve known with dementia enjoys keeping their hands busy since the fingers have a tendency to “fidget” when not active.

Exactly the name for the quilt in their honor. Here, you can read more about  The Fidget Quilt.

 Crayola 64 Ct Crayons Secret Garden Adult Coloring Book Ravensburger Ravensburger Fun Fusion Fuse Beads Glass European Beads FlexiBlox Fidget

When Mom finally went into a Group Home with 9 other ladies, I’m telling you, those women would fight over laundry. I’m not kidding. The Group Home was a regular style home renovated to serve the needs of all these sweet ladies. It was located in a residential neighborhood near my own home. So I was able to visit whenever I liked.

In the afternoons, the staff would do laundry and bring the heaping baskets filled with towels and sheets and other linens to the Television room. An uproar ensued at this time every day. “You got towels yesterday, it’s my turn.” “No, it’s my turn.” “I don’t want those fitted sheets, I want the flat ones!” and on it would go as they argued about folding towels or anything else those baskets offered. The ladies loved folding! sheets, blankets, clothes– they loved folding.

 Apple iPod touch G.G.Martinsen Sleep Soundly Effortless Relaxation

All the older folks I’ve known have a love of music. They especially like music that was popular from their own generation. Truthfully, I can understand that. I still enjoy the 50’s rock and roll myself. Music brings happiness and joy and memories of youth.

In later stages comfort is often the most necessary item. Soft house-shoes, a fluffy warm robe, soft music, a gentle foot rub. When that time comes, comfort is every bit as important as any activity or pleasure they found in earlier times.

 Tamarac Isotoner Ameta Men’s Isaac Mizrahi Troooper America Comfortable TractionSocks® Salk SureGrip

I hope you and your loved ones enjoy Fall and all the Holiday Season ahead. After a little forethought, you’ll know exactly what gift your loved one will enjoy most!

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Filed Under: Activities, Holidays, Nursing Homes Tagged With: Best Gifts for Alzheimer's dementia, Best Gifts for dementia, Good Gifts for Seniors

How would you cope with Alzheimer’s?

08/12Leave a Comment

How would you cope with Alzheimer’s?

mirror-imageIf you have a family member or you are a caregiver of someone who has Alzheimer’s dementia, you may find it difficult to cope with their odd behavior?

When I first began to care for my Mom with Alzheimer’s, on most days I was ready to pull my hair out.

Why couldn’t she just behave? Why did she ask me the same question three million times or pretend that she didn’t know how to put her clothes away after I washed them.

Finally, as our situation progressed, I began a search for answers. I read books, searched the internet, joined caregiver groups and haunted the Alzheimer’s message boards online.

Over time, I began to understand what was happening to Mom, to recognize the symptoms and consequences. Yet still, I wondered what it was like to be in her skin. Does she know what’s happening? How does she feel?

Recently, I watched this video  on YouTube made by ABC to show what it really feels like to have Alzheimer’s. It gives the best interpretation I’ve seen. Memories of Mom’s behavior came back to me like it was yesterday. Fears! she had so many fears. This video describes so many of the things that we encountered together, Mom and me.

I recognized the symptoms and thoughts of my Mother when she was still alive. The things she said, and the questions she asked. This video helped me understand so many of Mom’s puzzling behaviors.

If you are a caregiver or loved one for someone with Alzheimer’s dementia, this video will help you to understand their world in only 12 short minutes.

How would you Cope with Alzheimer’s Dementia

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Filed Under: Care Tips, communication, The Caregiver Tagged With: How would you cope with Alzheimer's

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s

04/232 Comments

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s in your home

It can be a difficult and potentially over-whelming task

It is surprisingly common and understandable to want to care for a parent or loved one with Alzheimer’s at home. The comfort of a known environment and the love that can be given are decisive factors.

Dealing with someone with Alzheimer’s means adapting daily to changing needs and abilities.
What was once second nature can either gradually or instantly be forgotten and assistance can be required with regular activities such as dressing or eating.

This can place the caregiver under a large amount of stress which is increased when the person with Alzheimer’s begins to display abnormal personality traits. Previously contented people can become agitated easily and often wander away or experience hallucinations. Caring for people with Alzheimer’s is a full time job in itself.

babydoll-dementia

The best way to cope

A plan is essential. Every day should involve a pre-determined routine and a plan for the various activities that will be necessary – whether a trip to the shops or the doctors. It is also important to think ahead and plan for things that might happen ahead of time, what to do when things go wrong and to create a back-up plan.

Another useful approach is to consider in advance the best way of dealing with any particularly difficult traits or behavioral patterns which are developing. It is a certainty that each day will hold a certain level of stress and a caregiver needs to know how to both handle these situations and to de-stress themselves.

It is also important to remember that the patient is still a person and that there are no specific rules for dealing with that person. Everyone is different and the disease reacts different in every case. The only way of dealing with it is to take each day as it comes and cope the best way you can. There are several things which can assist with this:

Developing traits
It is common for a person with Alzheimer’s to be much more coherent and more co-operative at roughly the same time each day. If this is the case then this can be the best opportunity to talk to them or to do chores which distract you from the pressure of constantly watching over them. As the disease progresses it is likely that their traits will change and you will need to rethink your approach many times. Be patient and try not to lose your temper if you notice that your loved one can’t understand what you’re trying to say.

Communicating with your loved one
As the persons illness progresses it can become more difficult for them to understand you as well technology-elderlyas you to understand what they are trying to tell you.

• The best method to minimize the stress of this is to keep your sentences short and simple – always using a calm voice. The patient is still a person and it is never advisable to talk down to them, no matter how frustrating the situation may be.
• It is also essential to turn off the TV or radio when trying to talk. A lack of distractions will maximize your chances of understanding each other.
• Just as before they were ill be certain to call them by name and make eye contact – the emphasis is on obtaining their attention and focus before starting a conversation.
• A person with Alzheimer’s may take longer to gather their thoughts and words when talking. It may be frustrating but it is important to allow them the opportunity to reply to your question and not to interrupt them while they are doing so.
• Tact is essential. Some words may elude the person with Alzheimer’s and this will be a source of frustration to them. Gently encourage them or prompt them with the right word to allow them the dignity of finishing their sentence.
• All questions and concerns should be phrased in a positive way. Someone with memory loss can feel trapped and negative questions and responses will increase their chance of depression.

Your parent is still a person even if you can only see a hint of who they once were. Always try to listen and address their concerns, no matter how hard they are to understand. Caring for an aging parent with Alzheimer’s is an overwhelming task; but it’s not something impossible to do provided that you get to know the illness and understand the manifestation of its side effects.

Author : Edward Francis and Foresthc.com!

Filed Under: Care Tips, Caring for the Caregiver, LATE STAGE Tagged With: Caring for loved one at home

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