Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears
Tinnitus is often described as a ringing in the ears. But it can also be more of a clicking sound, a humming sound, or buzzing, hissing, or roaring. Ninety percent of people with the condition also have hearing loss. Tinnitus is not a disease. Instead, it is thought to be the brain’s response to […]
Moving to memory care
Once you decide memory care is the wisest path, the next step is choosing a facility and creating a smooth moving day. Many memory care communities have a “move-in coordinator” or other family liaison. Rely on this professional for guidance. Ease the change with these tips: Involve your loved one in the choice of […]
Lessons from the seriously ill
A long-time hospice nurse—someone deeply committed to caring for the seriously ill—created this list of the top five deathbed regrets she frequently observed in her patients. She vowed to take these lessons to heart. Do any of these ring true for you? I wish I had lived MY life, not the life others expected […]
The care plan and meeting
If your loved one is admitted to a skilled nursing facility, Medicare requires the staff develop an initial, personalized care plan within the first 48 hours. This describes who should be doing what. Then, within the first 14 days, the staff must assemble a comprehensive assessment, which must include your loved one’s needs and strengths. […]
Do you strive for perfection?
It’s important to do the best you can when caring for a loved one. But aiming for perfection can bring on problems. For yourself, in terms of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. And for your relative and other family members, who may feel burdened by living under the stress of constant measurement and judgment. […]
Pillbox 2.0
For many people, a pillbox is just the ticket. But as we age, we may take more medicines. Filling the box requires more concentration. Remembering to take the meds can become more challenging. Many families turn to technology to help an aging loved one. There are two tech strategies: Reminders issued by a phone, […]
Gather important documents
If you are the person most likely to step in if your loved one is unable to get to the bills—a hospitalization, dementia—you need to get oriented. And organized! It’s easy to lose track of paperwork, especially someone else’s. Professionals recommend gathering important documents in a file or binder for safekeeping. Put that in […]
Calling a family meeting
Family meetings won’t cure old hurts or solve every current problem. But if they nurture teamwork, they can provide a solid foundation for the continued well-being of the person in need of care. Creative solutions often emerge at family meetings, and the burdens of caregiving get redistributed in a more balanced fashion. Tips […]
Early-onset Alzheimer’s
If your spouse is younger than 65 and has received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, you may feel in a world all your own. You probably don’t know anyone else in this situation and may sense a social stigma. It can be scary. Lonely. And feel just not fair! Look for a support group. You are […]
Denture care
Dentures need the same level of care and attention as natural teeth do. Bacteria and fungi that grow on teeth can also infect a dental appliance. Pressure spots on the gums can lead to pain and potential infection. Also to problems eating and then weight loss. In addition, poor denture care can result in stains […]