Why? The census directly impacts funding for key programs that affect your loved one. The census is a headcount that occurs by law every 10 years, beginning in 1790. The census law is found in Article 1 Section 2 of the constitution. This law goes beyond any hidden agenda of any administration, despite what you may hear in the media. On December 31, 2020 the President of the … [Read more...]
Our Caregiving Youth: A Hidden Epidemic
Do you know a young caregiver? The only national survey of young caregivers conducted in the United States was completed in 2004. Conducted by the National Alliance for Caregiving and the United Hospital Fund, they found there were about 1.3 – 1.4 million young caregivers. Divided into age groups of 8-11, 12-15 and 16-18, we are talking about children in elementary school, … [Read more...]
Need a Safe Social Outlet For You and Your Loved One Living with Dementia?
Look for a Memory Cafe like Friends Circle. “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.” One soft voice coming out of the corner of the room turned into an impromptu chorus of more than 30 people singing along. Anna (name changed), a regular at Friends Circle, loves music. Seated in her chair, she claps and sings along with the musical entertainment every time we gather. On days … [Read more...]
Dad should be using an automated pill dispenser. How can I get him to agree to this technology?
Technology can increase quality of life and independence. Let’s face it, finding the right technology solution for an aging loved one is often confusing and overwhelming. Whether you are worried about medications being taken correctly or are concerned about a fall, simply googling these topics can turn up 100’s of products to evaluate. Then there is the problem of getting … [Read more...]
“Mom is Living With Dementia, Not Suffering From It.”
Words Matter. One of the biggest and best caregiving lessons I’ve learned over the last five years is words matter. Starting a discussion with “You must”, “You should” get’s me nowhere with my mother. The concept is so central to how mom and I interact, that I devote an entire chapter on having hard conversations in my book "Your Caregiver Relationship Contract.” But the … [Read more...]