Ingrid and Pete. I’ve known Ingrid for three years. We met through the United Way of Northern NJ Caregiver Coalition. Initially I knew Ingrid as caregiver to her beloved husband, a person living with dementia. Over the years, I’ve gotten to know Ingrid – a smart, funny, compassionate woman who is a terrific poet and doesn’t suffer fools gladly. Despite caring for her … [Read more...]
Caregiving includes responsibility for moms finances. And it’s tax time.
The right resource can be a free tax preparation service. If your parents need help filing taxes or you are now responsible, here are some great tips from the United Way of Northern New Jersey. Free Tax Preparation Services The IRS has supplemental tax programs offered by non-profit organizations. These programs, Volunteer Income Tax Assessment (VITA) and Tax Counseling … [Read more...]
“Art knows no barriers, no boundaries. Art doesn’t know or care if you are disabled or a person living with dementia.”
Art is the pure expression of who you are at this moment in time, free from any illness. This pure expression is why ARTZ Philadelphia exits. It’s why Sylvia, when asked about working on a piece in one of their programs, could say: “It feels like freedom: I can do whatever I want.” “It Feels Like Freedom…” When Creativity Transends a Diagnosis, is an art exhibit I had the … [Read more...]
How Would You Respond In An Emergency If You Knew Someone Had Dementia?
How Emergency Medical Technicians Responded. I recently had the privilege of helping to put first responders from the Magnolia Ambulance Corps through the Virtual Dementia Tour® (VDT®). The VDT® is a scientifically proven, experiential learning experience that uses patented sensory tools which alter your senses. You are then given instructions to complete common everyday … [Read more...]
Anticipatory Grief: It’s real.
Don’t let it steal your joy in today. I’m a big believer in lessons. Even from the most unexpected places. Last week my dog got sick. He has Cushing’s, but this was different. He was lethargic, wobbly, uninterested in walks, uninterested in barking at every leaf that flies by. I took him to the vet and the short-term prognosis is good, antibiotics for his bladder infection, … [Read more...]