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.
Alzheimer’s wandering is dangerous Getting lost or accidentally wandering away is a serious issue for people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and a major worry for families. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 out of 10 people with dementia will wander. It can happen at any point in the disease, even if they’ve never done it before. It might seem unbelievable that…
Helping a loved one with Alzheimer’s maintain good oral hygiene can be challenging, but it’s essential for their overall health and comfort.
Frontotemporal dementia tends to start at younger ages Frontotemporal dementia is the 5th most common cause of dementia. It’s also referred to as FTD or frontal lobe dementia. It’s estimated that there are 50,000 to 60,000 people living with FTD in the United States. It often occurs between the ages of 45 and 65, but can also start as early as age 20…
When a loved one is living with dementia, communication can become a daily source of frustration and heartache for everyone involved. The “right” words often get lost, conversations can circle endlessly, and you might feel like you’re no longer able to connect in a meaningful way. But what if you could learn a new set of simple, powerful techniques that could help…
Many families may have difficulty keeping in touch, and seniors may sometimes 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…
