Dementia and Depression
Dementia and Depression. A better way to care for our loved ones with dementia.
The Problem With Driving and Dementia
Most families are concerned that if their loved one with dementia drives, they might get lost. They know that their loved one’s memory is changing, and are concerned that they will forget where they are going and/or forget how to get home. Those are legitimate concerns because we know that one of the primary cognitive skills that change in dementia…
The Passing of A Friend
we focus on relating in a dementia-supportive way, on meeting their emotional needs using the tools of the DAWN Method, which means that folks get the real help they need, but in a way that does not undermine their dignity, autonomy, or self-respect.
Getting The Water In…Hydration in Dementia Care
It can be a challenge to help our folks with dementia drink enough water. They may forget to drink, may believe they have taken in plenty of water and may refuse to drink when we encourage it. Most people would prefer to enjoy a drink of water, or a favorite beverage, with a companion. This, then, is the first and…
To Dementia Caregivers
I recently had the privilege of teaching a few classes for the University of Nebraska Lifelong Learning Program. One class was about dementia, and how to get it right with dementia care, using the tools of the DAWN Method. My goal with the class was to bring hope, ideas, and real practical tools. And I did that. But I also…
Older Folks And Classic Cars
I think this blog is more of a question than anything else. More of an invitation for readers, people, and society to ponder with me. When a car shows wear and tear, we repair what needs repairing, replace parts, and give it what it needs to keep working. When a car gets really old, we call it a classic; we…
“Oh Versus No”
There are many times in conversation when we say the word “no.” We are a fact-based, reality-oriented society, after all, so it is natural to say “no” when we need to correct someone or bring pure facts into our conversation. But the word “no” can become a barrier to a peaceable relationship when one of us has dementia. You see,…
A Dementia Epiphany
We are not full-time caregivers. We acknowledge that at the end of our designated time with our companions with dementia, we go to our homes. We are for sure mindful of the demands, fatigue, grief, uncertainty, and mix of emotions that come with being a caregiver. We do our best to support caregivers equally as much as we support the…
When Anticipation Is Not A Gift
For those of us with healthy brains, it is fun to anticipate having time with those we love. It is exciting to plan and organize and prepare for an upcoming vacation. Sometimes the excitement of anticipation ends up being every bit as thrilling as the actual event itself. We watch the world narrow for our loved ones with dementia, and…
What Is Strength-Based Dementia Care?
When we understand that not all cognitive skills are lost with dementia, we can provide strength-based care. People with dementia retain three useful cognitive skills, their intuitive, learning by experience, and mindlessness skills. When we learn how to use them to their advantage, we can provide strength-based care. When we provide strength-based care, we are able to provide care that…