Why is it so hard to get access in New Jersey? In states where marijuana is legal, the elderly are the fastest growing demographic of marijuana users. And with good reason. Marijuana helps with the typical problems of aging: chronic pain (think arthritis), degenerative disc disease, pain associated with other conditions and side effects of other treatments. "In my … [Read more...]
What is Dementia? What is Alzheimer’s?
Are Dementia and Alzheimer's the same? Dementia and Alzheimer's are not the same even though many people use the terms interchangeably. Dementia is not a disease. Dementia is the category of symptoms that shows a decline in cognitive ability severe enough to interfere with activities of daily living. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease. If a loved one is having … [Read more...]
“BIG and LOUD” Rehabilitation Model for Parkinson’s Disease
Adapts for Patient Fatigue. Controlling Parkinson’s Disease (PD) symptoms is primarily achieved with medication timing and rehabilitation therapy. The link between these two treatments is undeniable. Once dopamine replacement medication has been given, there is a short window when the PD patient has optimal energy and will get the most physical and emotional benefit from … [Read more...]
Parkinson’s Disease: Finding the Right Doctor and Medication Regime
And the importance of rehabilitation. Parkinson’s has not affected our family, but one of my favorite septuagenarians is battling this disease. I want to understand her struggle, so I was intrigued when I learned about a rehabilitation program called “Big and Loud.” Big and Loud is specifically designed for Parkinson’s patients and next week’s article will explain how it works. … [Read more...]
How Do You Determine Which Assisted Living Facility Is For You?
What questions should you ask? Monthly room and board is by far your largest assisted living expense. Private rooms (Studio's) come in different sizes, the larger the studio the higher the cost. Typically, all rooms have kitchenettes and handicap accessible bathrooms with shower benches. (Jump to Lessons Learned) Here are some examples of typical monthly room and board … [Read more...]