It's amazing how resilient the human spirit can be. I've spoken to folks living alone with dementia who find ingenious ways to adapt. One gentleman, a former engineer, rigged up his whole house with reminders – lights that flashed when it was time to take his medication, a talking clock that announced mealtimes... it was incredible! Of course, not everyone has that knack for invention, but there are simpler things that can make a world of difference. Things like..."

Safety First...making sure the home is safe. You'd be surprised how a simple rug or a poorly lit hallway can become a hazard. One woman I spoke to, bless her heart, tripped over a phone cord and ended up with a broken hip. It's heartbreaking, but preventable!"

Memory Reminders...little things to jog the memory. Like, labeling drawers with pictures of what's inside, or using a whiteboard calendar for appointments. I remember this lovely lady who used to lay out her clothes for the next day every evening, just like she did for her kids when they were small. It gave her a sense of control, you know?"

Simplicity Makes it Happen...sticking to a routine. It's comforting, like a familiar path in the woods. This one fellow, a retired teacher, swore by his morning walk. Rain or shine, he'd be out there, getting his exercise and saying hello to his neighbors. It kept him connected to the world.”

Our Guest:

Michael Splaine is owner and principal in Splaine Consulting, a small advocacy and government affairs consulting firm based in Washington DC. Immediately prior to starting this company, Mike was Director of State Government Affairs in the Public Policy Division of the US Alzheimer’s Association with whom he enjoyed a 23-year career, during which time he and his business partner Kate Gordon were the architects of the state AD plan strategy that started in 2007.

He is the managing partner of a related company Recruitment Partners LLC focused on improving the pace, quality and diversity of recruitment into dementia clinical trials.

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Related Episodes:

Can Technology & Innovation Change Aging at Home?

Caring for Elderly Parents Who Live Alone

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