Dishonesty in people with dementia is a frequent and often troubling behavior that poses challenges for both the individual and their family members. By recognizing the different reasons behind this behavior—such as difficulty coping with what’s happening to them, or the inability to process what is going on in and around them—you can respond with increased empathy and patience. Your loved one is not deliberately trying to mislead you; they are navigating a debilitating and progressive condition. You both will need understanding and compassion.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementitia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/delusions

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/how-offer-help-someone-dementia-who-doesnt-want-it

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

The decline in both physical and cognitive abilities that comes with your loved one’s dementia will significantly impact their safety, well being and quality of life. Occupational therapy, Physical therapy and Speech Language Pathologists play crucial roles in a holistic care plan for your loved one. They provide essential interventions that tackle the various challenges both your loved one and the family will face. These therapeutic methods are vital for maintaining and enhancing the physical, cognitive, and emotional health of those navigating the intricate journey of dementia.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Resources:

https://foxrehab.org/physical-therapy-impact-on-dementia-article/

https://optoceutics.com/dementia-occupational-therapy-ot-interventions-goals-activities/?srsltid=AfmBOor0ZEMnT_rq1qm52f-s3nCSIsS0FuCFkGM_mSXBpudf_kvy9Pc0

https://www.neurospeechsolutions.com/client-blog/speech-therapy-and-dementia

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Enjoy this Encore sharing of our most listened-too episode!

Family members may frequently find themselves locking horns with a loved one affected by cognitive decline. Arguments arise from even the simplest of things. Our loved one seems unable to see reason or another way of doing things. We offer listeners a way to understand what is happening, why it is happening, and how they can lower a loved one’s temperature, as well as your own.

For more about today's topic, check these out:

https://www.healthline.com/health/anosognosia

https://www.alzsd.org/anosognosia/#:~:text=When%20we%20experience%20denial%2C%20our,when%20told%20over%20and%20over.

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast

Hallucinations can often be terrifying, eliciting strong feelings of fear. For individuals experiencing them, these perceptions feel extremely real. Not only can hallucinations be distressing for the person affected, but they can also impact those who care for them. Understanding how to respond can help make a hallucinatory episode less overwhelming for both you and your loved one.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Our You Tube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ABalancingActNavigatingMem-d9h

Resources:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/responding-to-and-treating-hallucinations-in-dementia-98567

https://www.dementiauk.org/news/coping-with-hallucinations-in-a-person-with-dementia/

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/hallucinations

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Deciding when to transition a loved one into an assisted living facility is a deeply personal choice that demands thoughtful reflection. By identifying the signs, assembling a team of supportive professionals, and beginning your preparations now, you can make certain that your loved one receives the care and assistance they deserve.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ABalancingActNavigatingMem-d9h

Resources:

https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/how-to-move-a-parent-to-assisted-living/

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/signs-its-time-for-assisted-living

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Welcome back, listeners! Thank you for your patience while I have been away. It's good to be back at the microphone, and with a new Facebook page! And, I have an important question for you: If you could ask one question about Memory Loss or Dementia, what would it be? Let's get the conversations started!

NEW FACEBOOK PAGE:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Behavioral changes can complicate the caregiving process for individuals with dementia. Grasping the underlying reasons for these behaviors can assist caregivers in coping and responding in a suitable manner. It is common for those with dementia to experience shifts in personality and behavior. By understanding the triggers behind these behaviors, caregivers can work towards preventing their recurrence and enhance their own ability to respond effectively.

Our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ABalancingActNavigatingMem-d9h

Resources:

Early Stage

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/early-stage

Middle Stage:

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/middle-stage

Types of Triggers

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-three-behavioural-triggers-nicole-yeates/

Every day, we hear reports about seniors being scammed out of billions of dollars through their phones and computers. With the rapid pace of technological change, it's challenging for anyone to keep up, especially for a loved one experiencing memory loss. In this episode, we discuss strategies to manage technology in a way that keeps your loved one connected while safeguarding them from potential scammers.

**** Due to family emergency, new episodes will be uploaded on a bi-weekly schedule for the foreseeable future. Thank you for your patience.

References:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/10/10/parent-senior-phone/

https://alzfdn.org/identity-theft-alzheimers-steps-caregivers-take-protect-loved-ones/

https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/elder-fraud-abuse/national-elder-fraud-hotline#:~:text=If%20you%20or%20someone%20you,%2C%20Spanish%2C%20and%20other%20languages.

https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/elder-fraud

We are all aware of the advantages that our social connections provide. Our relationships and social engagements contribute significantly to our health and happiness. However, when a loved one is diagnosed with memory loss, navigating social situations can become challenging. This creates a genuine risk of isolation and depression. In this episode, we delve into the gradual changes your loved one may undergo and discuss how to adjust expectations and activities to effectively maintain these vital social connections.

Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/behaviour-changes

https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/caregiverinfo/handsoncare/socialization

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2023/01/new-studies-suggest-social-isolation-is-a-risk-factor-for-dementia-in-older-adults-point-to-ways-to-reduce-risk

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Aside from cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease is often regarded as one of the greatest fears for many individuals. In fact, when people begin to experience memory lapses, they often jump to the conclusion that it might be Alzheimer’s. However, the disease encompasses much more than just memory problems. In this episode, we aim to replace fear with facts and offer steps you can take now to clear up any misconceptions.

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

Early Signs of Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

Stages of Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages

Assessments for Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/medical_tests

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.