What is “healthy selfishness”?
As a rule, family caregivers are generous. They tend to be empathetic and to want to help. But it is possible to be too generous, with a tendency to sacrifice one’s own needs for the benefit of others. Sound familiar? This is called “pathologic altruism.” People who feel compelled to give despite risks to themselves […]
Dementia: Packing for a trip
A trip. Sounds like fun! And, it’s more challenging when you travel with a companion who has dementia. But with forethought and planning, you can avoid or readily address common problems. Things to do a few weeks ahead Get an ID bracelet for you and your loved one. In the confusion of crowds, it’s […]
Bringing the hospital home
Suppose you bring your frail loved one or a relative with dementia to the ER because of trouble breathing. The doctors determine it is pneumonia caused by bits of food being swallowed into the lungs. Rather than stay in the hospital, they suggest your relative use the Hospital at Home (HAH) program. With […]
Senior bullying and exclusion
About 20% of seniors living in communal settings experience bullying in one form or another. Cliques and power hierarchies seem to be a human tendency. If your loved one is the focus of bullying, you might notice withdrawal from others or depressed mood. Or you might hear them say that a particular person is “mean” […]
Meaningful end of life conversations
Hollywood would have us believe that profound deathbed conversations occur just before the last breath is drawn. Not so! The last few weeks of a person’s life are often marked by extreme fatigue, long hours of sleep, and sometimes distracting levels of pain. Conversations require too much energy. If someone you care about has […]
Preparing for a heat wave
Make sure your loved one is ready to “take the heat” this summer. Older bodies are less able to cope with excessive heat, so it’s important to ensure safeguards are in place. Check in with your relative’s doctor. Certain chronic conditions and medications increase an older adult’s risk of heat stroke. Get advice […]
Dementia: Is travel realistic?
If you are considering a trip with your loved one this summer, do yourself a favor and reflect on the realities of travel when a person has dementia. The disease is likely to be a prominent third guest in your plans, requiring consideration every step of the way. The disruption may make this less of […]
What is “elder abuse”?
Exploitation of older adults is an issue none of us likes to think about. But it’s a growing problem. One in 10 Americans age 60 or older has experienced some form of elder abuse. It is estimated that up to 5 million elders are abused each year. Elder abuse includes intentional acts of malice. […]
Tips for vacationing without Mom
We all need time away from constant responsibility. Sometimes the best way to care for your loved one is to take an extended break and recharge your batteries. If your relative is fairly independent, consider these other services that may be helpful: A daily check-in call from a friend or nearby relative. Or from […]
Cancer screenings covered by Medicare
If found early enough, many cancers can be kept in check. Some even eradicated. To encourage early detection, Medicare pays 100% (in most cases) for screening tests. Your loved one may have a copay and/or Medicare percentage for the doctor’s exam to administer a test. Or a facility fee for a colonoscopy. To get the […]