Let's Talk Dementia

 

 

 

As Alzheimer's progresses, the ability to make complete sentences is often lost. A listener wrote in asking about this, and I am happy to respond. Let's talk about that!

A listener in Canada wrote regarding the sadness and guilt she is experiencing due to the inability to visit her loved one who is quarantined in a memory care community. I understand, but guilt is something we accept. Let's talk about that.

As a dementia caregiver, you are experiencing stress. That stress is increasing your cortisol level. Your cortisol level is keeping your body in a stress mode called "fight or flight". This can cause a long-term negative effect on your body. Let's talk about that today.

Our world is full of talk about COVID-19/Coronavirus, but it should not be part of the world of your loved one with dementia. They do NOT need to know anything about it. Let's talk about that today!

If your loved one has a tendency to take all their clothes off and walk around naked, there is a reason for that. How should you respond? Let's talk about that.

When our loved ones are dressing with multiple layers, what should our response be? When they are turning the heat to 104, what should we do about that? Let's learn together!

Uncle Ernie thinks Porter Wagoner came for lunch. Of course, we know this isn't true (especially since Porter died in 2007), but arguing with Ernie about this story is not a good idea. His story is called "confabulation". Let's learn about how to deal with confabulations.

If you think your gas doesn't smell bad, I've got news for you. In fact, your loved ones with dementia are not smelling lots of things. Why is that a problem? Tune in to learn!

He sat his daughters down and demanded his car keys be returned. Words were used that broke their hearts, and feelings were hurt. The daughters were already exhausted from 24/7 care for Daddy. What steps should they take next in this stressful time of their life?

 

Should you have a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order on file for your loved one? Should you have one for yourself? Let's talk about that today on "Let's Talk Dementia."