Family Caregiver

Telling another family member when a loved one passes away is always difficult, but dementia can make the task even more challenging.

For individuals living with dementia, music has a powerful effect. Music has the incredible ability to transport us back in time, reduce stress, help us escape the present and make us more mindful of our emotions.

Sometimes simple discussions about fears and hopes for the remainder of one’s life can prove to be far more healing than surgeries and medication.

Understanding a dementia patient’s unique perspective can help ensure you are doing all you can to address their needs. These eight simple requests are what I want my family, friends and the public to know about me and other people living with dementia.

As the population ages and dementia becomes more prevalent, it is crucial for businesses to train their staff in dementia awareness and make small adaptations to their spaces.

Life happens. Be sure you have a backup plan (or two or three) in case you are not able to care for your loved one, whether it’s for just a day, a week, or however long. Read more from the perspective of living with dementia...

Even though Mum’s childhood toy, Edward Bear, had been stored away for years, it turns out he is still able to provide her with the security and comfort she needs in difficult times.

Experienced caregivers share the most efficient and innovative aspects of the care plans they have created for their loved ones. Use these examples to see if you could incorporate some of their tips into your own caregiving routine.

Most elders want to feel useful and do something to contribute to what is happening around them. Finding ways to utilize their strengths and incorporate them in activities can be challenging, but it is worth the effort.

Individuals who have chronic conditions and live in states where marijuana is legal for medical use may benefit from this alternative treatment.

Charlie has been having some more health issues lately, which landed him in the hospital. We still aren't sure what's wrong, but the VA medical team has been proactive and thorough with administering tests and potential treatments.

A dementia patient's idiosyncrasies can be rather puzzling. As caregivers, we must learn to go with the flow and pick our battles carefully.

My husband’s dementia keeps convincing him to turn down the thermostat, even though I tell him not to. He means well and I try to keep my patience, but troublesome dementia behaviors like these are still frustrating to deal with.

Whether you're taking care of an aging parent with Alzheimer's, or looking after your spouse who's just suffered stroke, the most important revelation you will have as a caregiver is the epiphany that you are not alone.

Charlie used to be a gadget guru, capable of fixing anything. Now, because of his dementia, I have to explain to him how to turn off the TV every night.

Caregivers, be aware of how and where you store medications in your home and around those with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. My husband Charlie recently gave me a fright when he found a bottle of my Advil PM.

The combination of Charlie's war injuries and dementia mean he can't explore the outdoors like he used to, but there are ways he's been able to maintain his connection with the wildlife in our community.

I used to be a healthy eater, then dad got sick. His eating habits changed, and so did mine.

I never know what to expect when I visit Mom. We have good days and bad. It is an emotional roller coaster with many ups and downs. Today was a ride to remember.

Once my father got sick, I quickly learned when to accept physicians’ suggestions and when to stand up for what I felt was best for him. The pressure to make medical decisions can be intense, but in the end, nobody knows your loved one better than you do.