Monthly Archives: March 2019

A Warning to Dementia Caregivers

“No one else can provide the same quality of care to my loved one that I can give them myself.” Many dementia caregivers genuinely feel that they are the only ones who can care for their loved one. There are almost 15 million people in this country providing unpaid care to a person with dementia. The majority of them will have difficulty coping with the changes that occur as the disease progresses. Caring for a person with a physical disability is challenging enough. Few people are prepared for the challenges they will face when their loved one begins to lose their identity. During the first stages of dementia, the symptoms may be limited to forgetfulness and an inability to concentrate. They may not be able to complete tasks as efficiently as they used to. Caring for…

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Hip Surgery Do’s and Don’ts

Hip fractures in the elderly are a significant healthcare problem. Hip surgery is often recommended by doctors depending on the patient’s mental and physical capacity. With more than 90% of hip fractures occurring in people over the age of 65 years, conditions like osteoporosis and dementia often enter into the equation. People with dementia are three times as likely to sustain a hip fracture than those who are cognitively intact. This may be due to related risk factors such as osteoporosis, falls, and dementia treatments that increase the risk of hip fractures. Providing the appropriate care for dementia could help prevent the need for hip replacement surgery.  These patients require care and guidance to help them recover and get the full value of joint replacement surgery. Those who are younger and whose conditions haven’t progressed tend…

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Fall Prevention Tips for the Elderly

Each year, thousands of elderly people experience falls with more than half resulting in injuries. The high risk of serious injury and even death make teaching fall prevention vital to their well-being.  Mobility problems, along with vision and balance issues, are often blamed for the high statistics. While these all contribute to the overall numbers, there are some overlooked risks that often add to the problem. Below are some tips to help you avoid a life-altering fall when you least expect it. 1. Look Out for the Grandkids’ Toys Little ones love to play in the floor and they often leave their toys behind when they’re finished. Even a small toy that you don’t see can get underfoot and cause you to fall. The same is true of pets and their toys. An enthused pet doesn’t…

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Dementia and Sleep: A Sleep Aid for the Elderly

People with dementia often have problems getting a good night’s sleep. Scientists don’t really know the connection between dementia and sleep problems. They can only assume it has to do with the changes these diseases cause to the brain. Like many other symptoms of dementia, those affecting sleep vary from one person to the next. Some experience more intense feelings of confusion and anxiety during the latter part of the day. Feelings of agitation prevent them from being able to sleep. Sometimes they get up and wander during the night. Others start to feel sleepy during the day and become restless at night. These symptoms of late-day confusion are called “Sundowning” in Alzheimer’s patients. Changes in sleep patterns often lead to an increase in behavioral issues as well. Both factors add to the challenges family caregivers…

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