I recently met someone who became a horticulture therapist after leaving the field of education. I was intrigued by our discussion and the therapeutic power of gardening for our elders. The practice of horticulture for therapy and rehabilitation gained traction in the 1940s and 1950s as part of the rehabilitative care for hospitalized war veterans. Today, you will find … [Read more...]
Incontinence: One of the last taboo subjects.
The medical implications of incontinence are the worst part of this condition. When I sneeze, I sneeze at least eight times in a row. I can remember my Aunt Mary Ellen saying to me, “Oh good, you sneeze just like me, get ready, cause when you get older, you’re gonna start peeing when you sneeze.” She was right. Why is incontinence still such a taboo subject, despite all … [Read more...]
Why is Occupational and Physical Therapy in Assisted Living Communities a Standard Practice?
One of the things I did not expect when Mom moved into her AL community was that she would start physical therapy and occupational therapy almost immediately. At first, I thought it was ‘event based’ and the change in her living situation was the event. I learned, however, the reason is for the safety and comfort of new residents as well as to serve as a baseline for the … [Read more...]
Part 2: Music Has Superpowers That Can Help Caregivers.
In last week’s post, I introduced you to Tara Jenkins, co-author of the book, Music, Memory, and Meaning and how music can help in caregiving tasks. This week Tara gives us more tips on how to use her book in your life as a caregiver. Let me assure you, the authors of Music, Memory, and Meaning are not expecting you to sing or create the music on your own, something I … [Read more...]
Music Has Superpowers! Here Are Some Great Suggestions For Caregivers: Part 1
The book Music, Memory, and Meaning by co-authors Meredith Hamons, Tara Jenkins and Cathy Befi-Hensel is my new obsession. Just an FYI, this article will be published in two parts. There was so much great information, I didn’t want to overwhelm you. Music, Memory, and Meaning is designed for everyday people to incorporate music into their caregiving day. It is written for … [Read more...]