Dementia Time-Shifting: When the Past Becomes the Present

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A woman places her hand on her mother’s shoulder, comforting her as she experiences dementia time-shifting.

Dementia time-shifting can feel confusing, but it’s a chance to understand a loved one’s world and create meaningful moments together.

The way a person with dementia experiences the world is not always grounded in our current reality. One of the more heart-wrenching yet powerful experiences you may encounter is a phenomenon called dementia time-shifting. This isn’t just failing to remember what day it is; it’s a total immersion in a different period of their life. For example, you might be sitting together at the dining room table, and abruptly, your older loved one believes they are a young adult waiting for their parents to come home. It’s confusing for them and may be equally baffling for you. But understanding time-shifting can help make those moments more manageable—and even meaningful.

What Is Dementia Time-Shifting?

Time-shifting occurs when someone with dementia perceives themselves as living in a different moment from their past. Beyond reminiscing, it’s a profound, genuine belief that they’re currently in that particular period of time. For them, the present moment fades, substituted by intense memories that feel as real as today. They may call out for individuals who passed away years ago or speak about events that took place decades earlier as if they were happening now.

The Best Ways to Cope With Time-Shifting

When time-shifting happens, it’s normal to want to correct the person’s perception, to gently remind them that they’re here, with you, in the present. However, we know that this method often results in confusion, frustration, or even distress. As an alternative, try stepping into their reality. Validate their feelings, understand what they are expressing, and respond with empathy. If they’re anxious about an appointment with their parents, for instance, you might say, “It sounds like you really care about being on time. They must have meant a lot to you.” This reaction can provide comfort without the jarring reminder that their parents aren’t around anymore.

Creating Connection Through Their World

Time-shifting may be a chance to create moments of connection with the individual you love. Make inquiries about the time they are absorbed in, such as, “What is something you’re excited to do when your parents get home?” Questions like this can inspire storytelling that engages them while giving you a richer comprehension of their past. You may hear stories you’ve never heard before or learn things that bring you closer.

Taking Care of Yourself

It is essential to recognize that time-shifting could be emotionally exhausting. Seeing a loved one drift into another time and place can leave you feeling lost. Ensure that you have support, whether from friends, family, or professional resources. Joining a caregiver support group can also provide you with worthwhile tips and camaraderie from other individuals who know what you’re going through. Remember, you do not have to do this alone.

Our Dementia Caregivers Can Help

Though we understand how hard it may be, time-shifting moments offer a window into the life experiences that have shaped the person you love. And we are here to assist you every step of the way in taking care of a person you love with dementia. Our professional caregivers are fully trained and experienced in the unique nuances of dementia and are available to assist in Fort Lauderdale, Parkland, Weston, and throughout Broward County. Reach out to us at 954-486-6440 for a complimentary in-home meeting to find out more.

Are You at Risk for Inheriting Alzheimer’s?

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A woman hugs her aging mother, wondering if she is at risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s.

Find out your risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s, and the other factors in addition to genetics that come into play.

While you watch Mom having difficulty remembering your name or losing track of her daily routine, an unsettling thought might sneak into your mind: “Will I face this at some point too? Am I at risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s?” It’s normal to battle with the fear of facing similar issues as a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. We invite you to take a breath and consider the following risk factors, facts, and causes of Alzheimer’s and dementia to help empower you to work through these fears in order to find some peace of mind.

Genetic Factors and Family History

One of the initial items to consider is the role of inherited genes. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, has a hereditary component. In accordance with the National Institute on Aging (NIA), people who have a family history of Alzheimer’s have a higher risk of developing the illness themselves. Still, it is important to remember that having a parent with Alzheimer’s doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll get it as well.

Types of Alzheimer’s Disease

There are two kinds of Alzheimer’s: early-onset and late-onset. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which appears between the ages of 30 and 60, can occasionally be associated with specific genetic mutations. These mutations are fairly rare and are usually passed directly from one generation to the next.

Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which arises after 60 years of age, is more common and also has a less clear genetic link. While genetics do play a role, other factors including environment and lifestyle are also noteworthy factors. Researchers are still examining the complicated interplay of these factors, however it’s believed that having a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s slightly raises your risk.

Lifestyle and Environmental Issues

Although you can’t transform your genetics, you are able to change your lifestyle and environment. The same healthy practices that are best for your heart are also great for your brain. Participating in regular physical exercise, eating a healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and not smoking can all lower your risk.

Also, staying socially and mentally active is also fundamental. Activities that challenge your brain, like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, helps build cognitive reserve. Maintaining strong relationships and social interactions help with brain health, so keeping your mind engaged and active can perhaps delay the start of dementia symptoms.

Monitoring and Preventive Measures

Being proactive regarding your health also can provide peace of mind. Routine check-ups with your physician can help keep track of your cognitive health. If you have questions about your memory or other cognitive functions, discussing these with your doctor can lead to early detection and treatment.

You might also want to consider genetic testing to ascertain your risk. Although this can offer some information, it’s essential to approach it with caution. Learning about your genetic predisposition may be a double-edged sword, as it can cause unnecessary anxiety. It’s important to talk about the possible positives and negatives with a genetic counselor or your health care provider before proceeding.

Resources and Support

If you are taking care of a loved one with dementia, understand that you’re not alone. Counseling and support groups can offer valuable information and emotional support. Taking care of your own mental and emotional health is equally as important as caring for your loved one.

Responsive Home Care is here to assist as well with an in depth library of resources to educate you and your family about Alzheimer’s as well as other forms of dementia. We also provide specialized dementia care services by highly trained, experienced, and skilled care professionals. Reach out to us at 954-486-6400 any time for more information on how we can help both you and your family member with dementia in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and throughout Broward County.

 

Effective Dementia Care Tips: Using Routines and Reminders

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A woman utilizes one of many effective dementia care tips by posting reminder notes on her refrigerator, pointing them out to an older man.

These effective dementia care tips will help someone you love gain self-confidence and independence.

When it comes to Alzheimer’s, it’s the little things that can make a big difference. Simple, thoughtful routines and reminders can transform daily life for the individual, bringing moments of calm and clarity. They help the person maintain their independence while creating a comforting rhythm that both of you can rely on. Here are some effective dementia care tips to enhance the well-being of someone with Alzheimer’s.

  • Consistent Daily Routines: A consistent daily routine provides a sense of stability and predictability, which is extremely comforting for someone with Alzheimer’s. Try to schedule activities like meals, bathing, and bedtime at the same times each day. This regularity helps to reinforce memory and create a calming environment. Keep the routine simple and avoid making too many changes, as this can be confusing and unsettling.
  • Visual Reminders: Visual reminders are effective tools for helping someone with Alzheimer’s navigate their day. Use large, easy-to-read calendars and clocks to display the date and time. Label drawers, cabinets, and rooms with pictures or words to assist with locating items and moving around the home. Place reminder notes in key locations, such as on the bathroom mirror or next to the coffee maker, to prompt daily activities.
  • Digital Aids: Technology can play a crucial role in supporting someone with Alzheimer’s. Digital devices, like smartphones and tablets, offer a range of applications designed to set reminders and alarms. Use these tools to schedule medication times, appointments, and daily tasks. Tech tools can also be used to provide verbal reminders and answer questions, offering additional support throughout the day.
  • Simplified Tasks: Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help your family member feel more accomplished and self-confident. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s get dressed,” guide them through each step: “Pick out your shirt,” “Put your arms through the sleeves,” and so on. Offering clear, simple instructions reduces confusion and promotes independence.
  • Engaging Activities: Incorporate activities that the person enjoys into their daily routine. Engaging in familiar hobbies, such as gardening, cooking, or listening to music, can provide a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Ensure these activities are safe and suitable for their current abilities.
  • Patience and Flexibility: While routines and reminders are beneficial, it’s essential to remain patient and flexible. Alzheimer’s can be unpredictable, and the person will have good and bad days. Adjust the routine as needed, and always approach each situation with understanding and compassion.

Know that caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is never something you should tackle alone. Our dementia care team is fully trained, experienced, and here to help you make life the best it can be for someone you love. Contact us any time at (954) 486-6440 to learn more about our skilled dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, and throughout Broward County.

When Someone With Dementia Is Hiding Things: Tips to Help

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An older man peers into a cabinet with a confused look on his face, a common occurrence when someone with dementia is hiding things.

When someone with dementia is hiding things, you need to determine the root cause and implement these strategies to help.

We’ve all experienced that moment of utter panic when we cannot find our keys or wallet. It’s disorienting and frustrating. Now, picture this happening multiple times every day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a common part of life for people with dementia. To make things even more unsettling, it could be that someone with dementia is hiding things themselves, usually in places you’re not likely to look.

Why might a person with dementia hide items? There are several key factors that might be at play.

  • Loss of organizational skills: It might become challenging for someone with dementia to understand the purpose of everyday objects or recall where they go. Hiding items can be a misdirected attempt at organization, a way to manage the daunting task of keeping tabs on their environment.
  • Suspicion and paranoia: Dementia often brings about a heightened sense of suspicion and paranoia. Your loved one may become suspicious of those around them, fearing that others might steal their possessions. This increased sense of mistrust can prompt them to hide their belongings in an attempt to protect them.
  • Memory issues and confusion: Hiding items can be a manifestation of the confusion and loss of memory that accompanies dementia. As memory fades, a person with dementia may no longer recall where they put their belongings, leading them to hide items in what seems like a secure spot. This action can give them a sense of security and help reduce their anxiety about losing things.
  • Need for engagement: Rummaging and hiding is often a form of engagement or activity for someone with dementia. As they lose the ability to take part in more complex activities, these simpler actions can provide a feeling of purpose and occupation. These activities can fill their time and trigger a sense of accomplishment.

Understanding the causes of this behavior can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience. Try:

  • Creating a secure and structured environment: Make sure that their living space is organized and free of hazards. Consistency in how furniture and personal items are arranged can minimize confusion and make it easier for them to find the things they need.
  • Providing engaging, meaningful activities: Keep their minds and hands busy with activities that are right for their abilities and interests. Simple tasks like sorting, folding, or working with sensory objects can be both calming and fulfilling.
  • Labeling common hiding spots: Clearly label storage areas, drawers, and cupboards. This can act as a helpful reminder of where things belong and can minimize the likelihood of items being hidden in unusual places.
  • Maintaining a routine: A predictable daily routine can offer a sense of security and reduce anxiety. Regularly scheduled activities, meals, and rest times can help create a structured environment that feels safe and familiar.

We’re also here to partner with you to ease the root causes behind hiding items as well as other challenging effects of dementia. Get in touch with us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our highly creative and specialized in-home dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas in Broward County.

Beyond Aduhelm: New Alzheimer’s Treatment Options on the Horizon

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An image of a human brain shows a missing puzzle piece that new Alzheimer’s treatment options aim to fill.

Encouraging new research around Alzheimer’s treatment options offer hope for families.

One positive thing about Alzheimer’s disease is it has captured the attention of researchers everywhere who are motivated to discover new treatment options. When an individual you love is diagnosed with the disease, however, the urgency to find help is all the greater. If this is you, be encouraged! Though Aduhelm, the controversial treatment approved by the FDA in 2021, stirred debate and raised questions relating to its safety and effectiveness, researchers have been diligently working on alternative solutions that offer renewed hope.

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5 Things to Avoid Saying to a Loved One With Dementia

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A young woman hugs a loved one with dementia.

Try these tips to improve communication with a loved one with dementia.

Have you ever said the wrong thing? Maybe your objective was to compliment a friend on her new haircut, but you came across sounding like you were criticizing her previous hairstyle. Selecting our words carefully is always important, but even more so when speaking with a loved one with dementia. The words we say as well as the way we say them can significantly impact the person’s emotional well-being and quality of life.

Here are five things never to say to a person with dementia, along with alternative approaches to foster understanding and connection:

  1. “Do you remember…?” Asking someone with dementia to remember specific details can lead to embarrassment or anxiety if they cannot remember. Instead, provide gentle prompts or share your own memories to spark conversation without putting pressure on them to remember. For example, say, “I remember when we went to that restaurant together. It was such a lovely evening,” allowing them to engage in the conversation without feeling pressured to recall specific details.
  2. “You’re wrong.” Invalidating a person’s thoughts or memories may cause frustration and distress. Rather than dismissing their reality, validate their feelings and experiences. For instance, say, “I understand that you see it that way,” or redirect the conversation to a different topic. By acknowledging their perspective, you validate their emotions and maintain a sense of connection.
  3. “You just told me that.” Continuously pointing out their forgetfulness can be counterproductive and hurtful. Instead, practice patience and respond as if it’s the first time you have heard the information. This approach preserves their dignity and reduces feelings of frustration. You can say, “Thank you for sharing that with me,” and continue the conversation without dwelling on their forgetfulness.
  4. “You don’t have dementia.” Minimizing or denying their condition can lead to feelings of confusion and isolation. It’s essential to acknowledge their reality while offering support and reassurance. Express empathy and assure them that you are there to help navigate any challenges they might face. You could say, “I’m here to support you through this journey, no matter what comes our way.”
  5. “You’re being difficult.” Labeling their behavior as difficult or challenging can escalate tension and hinder effective communication. Instead, approach them with kindness and understanding. Identify the underlying needs or emotions driving their behavior and respond with patience and empathy. For example, say, “I can see that you are feeling frustrated. Let’s take a moment to figure out how we can make things better together.”

Communication can become very challenging as dementia progresses. Let our highly trained, knowledgeable dementia care specialists help. Contact us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our specialized care for people who have dementia in Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, and the surrounding areas. We understand the unique needs of individuals living with dementia and are dedicated to providing thoughtful care that promotes dignity and quality of life.

Why Meal Prep Is a Great Activity for Someone With Alzheimer’s

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A young woman smiles over the shoulder of an older loved one as she rolls out biscuit dough, a great activity for someone with Alzheimer’s.

Working together on the tasks related to preparing meals can be an incredibly beneficial activity for someone with Alzheimer’s.

There is something so special about the kitchen. It’s the first stop kids make once they arrive home from school, in search of a snack as well as the chance to share about their day. It is the spot family members gather to cook holiday meals together. It’s also a place to heat up a cup of milk and find some quiet, reflective solace when sleep is elusive. And, it’s a great place to engage in a meaningful activity for someone with Alzheimer’s.

For a person with dementia, the kitchen can bring to mind cherished memories. Cooking engages all of the senses, making it an excellent activity to unlock the doors of reminiscence. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the sizzle of ingredients in a pan, and the tantalizing smell of a well-seasoned dish can stir happy memories, sparking joy and connection.

If you’d like to add culinary techniques to your dementia care toolbox, these suggestions will help.

  • Keep it simple. Use uncomplicated recipes with familiar ingredients to build a sense of accomplishment. If the person has a box of recipes or favorite cookbook, this is a fantastic place to begin. Pull out several recipe options that would be easy to prepare, and then see which ones may spark interest. Or, you can search on the internet for simple recipes according to the person’s particular tastes.
  • Make it personal. Think about the preferences and capabilities of the individual. Activities such as kneading dough, rolling out cookies, or tossing a salad can be empowering, confidence-boosting, and reinforce a sense of purpose while triggering memories.
  • Organize in advance. A structured approach, with ingredients lined up and ready and step-by-step instructions provided, will help ensure a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
  • Stay social. The idea should be to make the activity a time of togetherness, transforming the kitchen into a warm space where stories are exchanged, laughter is shared, and bonds are strengthened.

The end goal should never be to create a Pinterest-worthy culinary production. Rather, focus on all the senses being used and draw on any memories that may come to the surface.

Perhaps, for example, you are making an apple pie. You can talk about how smooth the crust feels while you roll it out and the powdery flour that puffs into the air while you sprinkle it on the dough. Point out the sound of the apples being chopped, the delicious cinnamon butter aroma as the pie bakes. And of course, enjoy a piece of the finished product together, encouraging any stories along the way that the individual would like to share.

At Responsive Home Care, our experienced dementia caregivers are on hand to implement a culinary activity for someone with Alzheimer’s, or a wide variety of other creative and meaningful pastimes. Contact us at 954-486-6440 for more information on our dementia care services in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.

Reality Orientation in Dementia: The Pro and the Cons

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A caregiver helps guide a senior with dementia through reality orientation.

Reality orientation can help loved ones with dementia through confusion.

Did you ever wake up in the middle of a dream and wonder, just for a moment, if what you were dreaming about was real? It can feel very disorienting until you open your eyes and take in your familiar surroundings. An experience like this can give you just a brief glimpse into the ongoing disorientation for a person with dementia. When confusion about time, place, and even identity settle in for a person you love, you’re faced with two options for responding: either stepping into their reality with them, or practicing reality orientation for someone with dementia.

Which Reality Is Best?

In a nutshell, each approach has its place in dementia care. However, there are specific cautions to understand when using reality orientation for someone with dementia. It is important to first understand what is involved with both options and when they could be most appropriate.

Accepting Their Reality

Living in an alternate reality is quite typical for a person in the mid to later stages of dementia. The individual may believe they are a young adult engaged in their previous career (or a different one altogether), with a spouse and young children to look after. Going along with their perception of reality helps them maintain a feeling of self-worth and purpose. It instills comfort and peace, and it is often the recommended approach.

Orienting Them to Your Reality

On the other hand, reality orientation involves providing cues and prompts about the current time, date, and place. Studies have shown that it can improve cognitive functioning, especially when combined with donepezil, and help with some of the more difficult aspects of dementia.

However, reality orientation should be handled gently with compassion, skill, and awareness of the person’s emotional state. For example, if the person asks where their mother is, it could be extremely harmful to respond, “Why, she died 40 years ago! You are 95 years old, so there is no way your mother could still be alive.” In contrast, reality orientation may be effective in ordinary conversations. For instance, if the individual wakes up and asks what day it is, you might respond, “Today is Friday, the day you have your exercise class and then dinner with Steve.”

If the person seems to become agitated or anxious with reality, it’s always best to join them in the perceived reality that feels comfortable to them.

Our specially trained caregivers are pros at knowing how to effectively engage someone with dementia and make each day the best it can be. We utilize imaginative, customized approaches that help with memory, communication, safety, and comfort, while encouraging independence and a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Reach out to us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.

 

Boredom and Alzheimer’s: How to Avoid This Dangerous Combination

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A woman experiencing both boredom and Alzheimer’s stares blankly into the distance.

Avoid the dangerous combination of boredom and Alzheimer’s with these tips.

Salt and pepper. Macaroni and cheese. Peanut butter and jelly. Some things are just meant to go together. One combination you want to avoid, however, is boredom and Alzheimer’s. Studies have revealed that boredom in dementia contributes to an increase in:

  • Anxiety
  • Aggression
  • Agitation
  • Hallucinations
  • Delirium
  • Wandering
  • Depression
  • And more

Not only that but, boredom in family members providing care for a person with dementia is also troubling, resulting in a heightened risk for burnout and depression.

Tips on How to Prevent Someone With Dementia From Becoming Bored

Clearly, preventing boredom is essential. These tried and tested strategies are a good place to begin.

  • Since boredom and loneliness often occur together, make certain there are regular opportunities for socializing in accordance with the individual’s comfort level. If large groups of visitors are overwhelming, for instance, ask family members and friends to visit one or two at a time.
  • Maintain a journal of which activities were most well received, as well as the ones that seemed to be of less interest.
  • Take lots of time for reminiscing. Use photo albums, scrapbooks, and home movies. Browse the internet for top news articles from a particular timeframe to talk about together.
  • Play the individual’s favorite music through a variety of means: the radio, a playlist, videos of concerts, outings to local school musical programs or the person’s religious organization to enjoy spiritual songs. Perhaps even plan a karaoke night with friends and family, or a guitar or piano singalong.
  • Provide plenty of meaningful activities that build a feeling of purpose and self-worth. This could include helping with folding laundry, preparing meals, sorting nuts and bolts in a toolbox, or whatever provides a connection to the person’s past occupation or passions.
  • Know what sparks interest, and seek out opportunities for engagement accordingly. For example, if the individual’s face lights up whenever they see a dog, explore pet therapy or arrange for regular visits with family and friends who have dogs.

A companion from Responsive Home Care is an excellent way to bring a breath of fresh air into the day of someone with dementia. Our caregivers are experienced and highly skilled in creative techniques to boost engagement and contentment for someone with dementia. A caregiver from Responsive Home Care will add much-needed socialization for your family member, while providing you with the opportunity to step away and take some time for yourself.

Some of the many ways we are able to help include:

  • Providing transportation and accompaniment for fun outings
  • Planning and preparing nutritious meals and snacks
  • Engagement in ability-appropriate activities that provide purpose and help boost memory
  • Reminiscing and conversations
  • Assistance with personal care and hygiene
  • And so much more

Call us at 954-486-6440 for more information on our customized care solutions in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.

Dementia and Conversation Looping: How to Break the Cycle

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A young man smiles as he implements techniques to effectively respond to his father, who is experiencing dementia and conversation looping.

Dementia and conversation looping often go hand in hand, which can lead to frustration without knowing how to effectively respond.

If you have ever played music on vinyl records, you know that the needle does not always track properly. Occasionally, a small piece of debris or dust may cause it to get stuck or skip, leaving you hearing only a few words of the song over and over again until the problem is addressed.

In Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, memory blips can result in a similar effect described as conversation looping. Typically occurring in mild and moderate stages of the disease, dementia and conversation looping may look like this:

  • You’re having an engaging conversation about your favorite football team’s latest victory.
  • The individual with dementia suddenly changes gears and asks you if you’ve finished your homework.
  • Knowing it is important to step into an alternate reality or timeframe with the person, you respond that all of your homework is finished.
  • You then resume the conversation about the unbelievable touchdown that clinched the win.
  • The other person asks again if you have finished your homework.

What Is the Appropriate Way to Handle Issues With Dementia and Conversation Looping?

It is beneficial to first understand why the behavior is occurring. We all experience repetition to varying degrees. We may forget that we have told someone a particular memory or story and tell them again. We also may repeat a question we have in mind, unsure whether we actually asked the question or simply just thought about it. These types of situations occur when we are not fully focused or paying close enough attention to the environment around us.

In contrast, conversation loops in dementia can happen as frequently as every couple of minutes. Professor of Psychology at Western Washington University Ira E. Hyman, Jr., Ph.D., explains that with cognitive impairment, “…the work of binding the elements of an experience into a personal memory is disrupted.”

It is important to recognize that correcting someone with Alzheimer’s is not a successful tactic. Understanding that, it’s advisable to continue to respond to the person’s repetitive question or story, keeping your reply brief. You can then try changing the topic to something you know is of particular interest to them now or was important to them during their younger years, as long-term memories stay intact considerably longer than more recent ones.

How a Specialized Alzheimer’s Caregiver Can Help

With many challenging behaviors and symptoms to manage, caring for a person with Alzheimer’s on your own can be daunting. Our caregivers are especially trained in effective approaches to managing the challenges experienced in dementia. Let us partner with you to ensure the highest quality care for someone you love.

Whether you are struggling with wandering, sundowning, hallucinations, aggression, or any other complications a family member is experiencing from Alzheimer’s, we can help. Contact us any time at (954) 486-6440 to learn more about our expert dementia care, available throughout Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.

Why Are Your Loved One’s Dementia Symptoms Suddenly Getting Worse?

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A daughter holds hands with her elderly father who is experiencing dementia symptoms.

Have a loved one’s dementia symptoms gotten worse all of a sudden? Find out what it might mean here.

Wouldn’t it be helpful if there was an Alzheimer’s care manual, with step-by-step information on what to expect at each stage of the disease? While there are a few general commonalities during the progression of dementia, each person’s experience is different. This makes it difficult to know what to anticipate on any given day.

Even with the unpredictability of Alzheimer’s disease, there are particular situations that are beyond the typical range of expectations to watch for. Perhaps one of the most concerning is a sudden worsening of dementia symptoms. This could occur for many different reasons:

  • Delirium, caused by an infection, surgery or a hospital stay, medication side effects, insufficient sleep, dehydration, or even constipation
  • Brain injury from a fall or a stroke
  • An underlying illness such as cancer or prion disease
  • Sundowning
  • Disruption to normal routine from a move, change in caregivers, hospitalization, etc.

What Are the Typical Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, and as of now, incurable. Therefore, a decline in condition is to be expected. A sudden shift in the person’s condition, however, is atypical. Generally speaking, the disease progresses through the following stages:

  • Early: The first detectable signs of Alzheimer’s are typically very mild, including short-term memory lapses, forgetting a word, or getting lost.
  • Middle:In the middle stage of the disease, cognitive challenges progress to the point that the individual struggles with independently performing activities of daily living.
  • Late:The final stage of Alzheimer’s, which may take years to reach, involves a lack of response and recognition of both people and environment, as the body starts to shut down.

If You Observe Sudden Worsening of Dementia Symptoms…

Seek medical help right away if a sudden decline is noted so that the cause can be pinpointed and addressed.

A dementia care journal can be a very helpful tool, before, during, and after worsening symptoms. Daily journaling can help you keep track of:

  • What works and what does not work in helping the person manage challenges
  • The person’s overall demeanor on any particular day
  • Any difficult behaviors noted, with particulars on time of day and potential triggers or contributing circumstances
  • Medications taken and any side effects detected
  • Sleeping and eating habits

These kinds of details will be invaluable in helping to piece together what may have caused a rapid change in condition and just how to remedy it.

Responsive Home Care’s caregivers in Plantation, Lighthouse Point, Hollywood, and nearby areas are highly skilled and trained in caring for those diagnosed with dementia and detecting any changes in condition. Contact us online or call us at (954) 486-6440 and let us walk beside you in your dementia care journey.

Alzheimer’s Care Update – Is Alzheimer’s Disease an Autoimmune Disorder?

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Family caregiver comforting senior with Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s Care Update: Researchers are exploring if Alzheimer’s could be an autoimmune disorder.

Pinning down a cure for Alzheimer’s has become just as complex as the tau threads long considered to be the core cause of the disease. But now, researchers may be drawing one step closer to untangling the puzzle of Alzheimer’s disease, through another train of thought. New findings are leaning towards the hypothesis of an inflammatory response in the brain, which poses the question: could Alzheimer’s disease actually be an autoimmune disorder?

People living with diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis know all too well the effects of an overactive immune system. In a perfect world, our immunity shields us from bacteria, viruses, and other infections that need to be eliminated. However, with an autoimmune disorder, antibodies attack non-invasive, healthy cells, triggering inflammation and other undesirable effects.

In earlier Alzheimer’s disease studies, those infamous amyloid plaques have been the focus. Yet we also understand that even in healthy brains, those plaques are present and are suspected to perform some form of helpful function. The immune system targets these plaques, destroying them along with potentially healthy cells in the process: suggestive of a possible autoimmune response.

This alternative new strategy to studying and formulating treatment possibilities for Alzheimer’s has earned lead author of the research, Don Weaver, MD, PhD, of the Krembil Brain Institute, the 2022 Oskar Fischer Prize, which “recognizes innovative ideas in Alzheimer’s research that look beyond prevailing theories.”

As for everyone else, it’s a hopeful sign that a cure for such a devastating condition could be on the way. Until then, turn to Responsive Home Care for creative, skilled, and compassionate dementia care services that help people with Alzheimer’s disease continue to live to their fullest potential in the homes they love. We’re experienced in supporting those with dementia and the families who love them to better deal with some of the more distressing aspects of the disease, including:

  • Growing discomfort in the late afternoon and overnight hours (sundowning)
  • Wandering and asking to go “home”
  • Repetitive behaviors and conversations
  • Memory loss
  • Agitation, aggression, and other difficult and strong emotions
  • And more

Our expert caregivers work together with your family to provide as much or as little care as needed to provide you with the breaks from caregiving you need for your own health and wellbeing. After all, providing care for a person with dementia is never a single-person undertaking, especially as the disease progresses. Taking time away for self-care and to recharge is extremely important for you and your family as well as for the senior with dementia. A well-rested family caregiver is more patient and better prepared to supply the level of care a senior with dementia needs and deserves.

Contact us online or at (954) 486-6440 for further helpful dementia care resources, and to schedule a free in-home meeting to learn more about how our home health services in Fort Lauderdale, FL and the nearby areas can help maximize quality of life for somebody you love.