When an aging loved one starts to forget names, misplace keys, or seem confused, it’s natural to worry and wonder: Is it Alzheimer’s or dementia? These terms are often used interchangeably, leading to widespread confusion at a time when clarity matters most. While deeply connected, understanding the crucial difference between them is the essential first step in navigating diagnosis, care, and future…
Deciding to move a loved one with Alzheimer’s into assisted living is one of the most difficult and loving decisions a family can make. But what happens when the environment meant to provide safety and support begins to show signs of strain? From increased agitation to unexplained injuries, problems in assisted living can surface, leaving you wracked with doubt and a heartbreaking…
So many families ask, “How is dementia diagnosed?” If you’re concerned that your loved one might have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, it’s essential to know how to get an accurate diagnosis. This is essential because other reversible health conditions could cause dementia-like symptoms. A correct diagnosis is necessary for appropriate treatment. Knowing what a doctor should evaluate helps you protect your loved one in case their…
When an older loved one starts forgetting recent conversations or struggling with familiar tasks, it’s natural to worry and wonder what’s really going on. Is it just normal aging, or could it be Alzheimer’s disease? Understanding the difference is the first step toward getting the right help. Alzheimer’s isn’t a simple case of memory loss; it’s a specific, progressive disease that physically…
A look at the 10 most common chronic diseases in older adults, offering practical prevention tips and management strategies to help your loved ones stay healthier longer.
Helping a loved one with Alzheimer’s maintain good oral hygiene can be challenging, but it’s essential for their overall health and comfort.
Many families struggle to stay in touch, and seniors may feel isolated or abandoned. This can be devastating for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia who aren’t able to use popular video calling apps and may not understand the situation. Let’s examine this issue and discuss some available solutions. Michael Cottam cares for his father-in-law, who has dementia and lives in a nursing…
Navigating the financial reality of Alzheimer’s or dementia care can feel like one of the most overwhelming parts of the caregiving journey. With costs for memory care, assisted living, and in-home support reaching thousands of dollars per month, families often assume that Medicare will provide a safety net. However, this crucial government health insurance program has significant and often surprising gaps in…
If you suspect that your loved one may be showing signs of cognitive impairment rather than just occasional forgetfulness, the first step is to visit their primary doctor for a complete check-up. If there aren’t any obvious causes of dementia-like symptoms, the doctor might use a test called the Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMSE) to screen for possible cognitive issues. A more sensitive screening test…
Sponsored by Gleam in Your Eye Regularly participating in stimulating activities can help maintain existing cognitive and physical abilities. These activities will also bring joy and encourage social connection. At Gleam in Your Eye, our mission is to encourage positive cognitive stimulation for people with Alzheimer’s. While developing our specialized dementia activity boxes, we found that there are four key considerations when…
