Winter can be a challenging season for people living with dementia. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and fewer opportunities to go outdoors can increase restlessness, isolation, and changes in mood.
A painful reality with most forms of dementia is that sufferers progressively lose the ability to accurately recall autobiographical memories. This absence of reliable memories leads to frustrating moments for the person living with the disease and can have damaging effects to the person’s sense of self-worth as recall begins to fade.
As dementia progresses, one of the more disorienting and sometimes heartbreaking symptoms caregivers face is their loved one’s loss of understanding of time.
Providing mentally enriching daily activities for loved ones with dementia is just as important as ensuring their best physical health. Sensory activities are commonly used in promoting cognitive function and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia in skilled care communities, homes, and at day programs like the one at St.
Dementia affects the brain in ways that can make eating less appealing. According to the Alzheimer's Association, "poor nutrition may increase behavioral symptoms and cause weight loss." Some common reasons for appetite loss include:
Sensory changes – Taste and smell may diminish, making food less enjoyable
Medication side effects – Some prescriptions can alter appetite or cause nausea.
With the holiday season comes family gatherings, time-honored traditions, and usually, lots of baking. While many holiday activities may seem unobtainable as a caregiver for a loved one living with dementia, there are ways to adapt to the new reality.
Book Review, Caregiver Perspective, Emotional, Engagement, Joy Plan
Stepping into the role of a caregiver brings with it a unique set of challenges and responsibilities. While caring for someone else is rewarding, it's easy to overlook your own needs in the process.
