News & Articles

A Bright New Focus and an Important Review

This month’s article comes to you from BrightFocus.org, which funds exceptional scientific research worldwide to defeat Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, and provides expert information on these heartbreaking diseases.

While the Alzheimer’s Association offers comprehensive information on the latest developments, BrightFocus is another wonderful resource with its own cadre of brilliant researchers, offering even more for us to explore and learn from. What follows is an excellent review of the signs, symptoms, and stages of Alzheimer’s Disease taken directly from the BrightFocus website.

Alzheimer’s Disease usually progresses gradually, lasting 2 – 20 years, with an average of 7 years in the U.S. … The stages of clinical diagnosis and their symptoms include:

Mild (Stage 1): Early in their illness, people with Alzheimer’s disease may:

• Be slow in their speech and understanding
• Experience minor memory loss and mood swings
• Have difficulty learning new things
• Lose energy and spontaneity, although others may not notice
• Lose their train of thought mid-sentence
• Still perform basic activities but need assistance with more complicated tasks

Moderate (Stage 2): At this stage, a person with Alzheimer’s begins to be disabled by the disease.

• Although individuals with Alzheimer’s can recall the distant past, recent events are difficult for them to remember.
• They may have difficulty comprehending day, time, and location.
• They may invent new words as they lose old ones.
• They may not recognize formerly familiar faces.

Severe (Stage 3): In this final stage, Alzheimer’s patients:

• Are unable to chew and swallow
• Become bedridden and vulnerable to pneumonia and other illnesses
• Become more and more unresponsive
• Lose bodily control and need constant care
• Recognize no one

The importance of a Physician Evaluation

If you suspect that you or a loved one has a memory problem, you want to seek advice and a thorough evaluation by a physician with extensive knowledge, experience, and interest in dementia and memory problems. It’s important to get early medical attention for two reasons:

1. The physician can rule out other possible causes of memory loss that warrant their own treatment, such as Parkinson’s Disease, drug interactions, head injury, infections, or nutritional or metabolic disorders
2. A doctor may prescribe certain medications to help slow the progression or alleviate some of the symptoms of the disease. Treatments are most effective in the earlier stages, so early screening and diagnosis are important!

Please visit brightfocus.org for more breakthrough information and compassionate advice. # # #

In the Good Old Summertime … ideas for sharing summer days with your loved one who has dementia

The California Caregiver Resource Centers are a network of eleven independent non-profit organizations across California. They were created with you in both mind and heart to be a free resource as you navigate the challenging role you’re in. The following ideas were lifted right from their website: caregivercalifornia.org.

Whether you are caring for someone at home or in a memory care community, these are wonderful ideas for sharing quality time this summer.

• Put together a summer activities package, including things like a picnic blanket, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, a hat, and their favorite snacks.
• Go for a walk in the park together. Make sure to point out any interesting sights, smells, and sounds along the way.
• Take a trip to the beach. Notice the feel of the sand between your toes, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, and the smell of the salt in the air. These can be calming and invigorating.
• Head to a nearby museum or art gallery. Take your time … stop at each exhibit. If your loved one is feeling chatty, strike up a conversation about what you are seeing.
• Plan a picnic in your backyard or at a nearby park. Be sure to include their favorite foods and drinks.
• If you have an ice cream-maker (you can get ‘em pretty cheap these days), whip up some homemade ice cream together.
• Go for a drive and take in the scenery. If your loved one is up for it, make some stops along the way to explore a new place or two.
• Play tourist in your own town or city. Visit some of the local landmarks and attractions you might take for granted. They might trigger old memories or make you appreciate the things you haven’t given a second thought to in a while.

Of course, it’s important to tailor these activities to your loved one’s abilities and interests. But dementia doesn’t mean you can’t do things together. Summertime might just be the perfect season to enjoy these warm sweet days together. # # #

Three Good Reasons to be Optimistic

This summer, the Alzheimer’s Association is just full of good news about the strides being made toward treatment, support, and ultimately, a cure for a disease that currently affects more than 6 million people in the U.S. alone. Alzheimer’s Disease is a leading cause of death in this country, and there are more than 11 million friends and family members providing unpaid care for those living with it.

In June, an Advisory Committee to the Food and Drug Administration unanimously endorsed the efficacy and clinical benefit of lecanemab (Leqembi™), as part of the approval process for this new drug treatment. “With this action, we are one step closer to more people living with Alzheimer’s having more time with more of their capabilities intact,” said Joanne Pike, DrPH, Alzheimer’s Association president and CEO.

Leqembi, an anti-amyloid treatment, changes the course of the illness and delivers clear benefit for people in the early stages of their illness. By slowing the progression, this treatment will give people more time to participate fully in daily life, participate in important decisions, and live independently.

“While the thought of a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease is certainly part of my optimism,” said Myra Garcia, member of the Advisory Group, “I’d like you to know that for me, more time is enough for now.”

The next step toward approval of the treatment is the FDA review. The FDA has granted Priority Review to Leqembi with required action on July 6, 2023.

A second announcement declared that the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions passed two bipartisan bills that will strengthen the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease and all other dementias, as well as laws designed to support the people who care for those afflicted. One is the NAPA Reauthorization Act, which extends the landmark National Alzheimer’s Project Act from 2011. The other is the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act, which builds on a law passed in 2014 to ensure that Congress continues to hear directly from scientists on what resources are needed to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s Disease.

And thirdly, on July 1, NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney gave $50,000 to the Alzheimer’s Association to advance research and enhance care and support services. The donation was part of the Race to #ENDALZ Match Challenge that ran throughout the month of June. Blaney founded the Ryan Blaney Family Foundation in 2018 as a tribute to his late grandfather, race car driver Lou Blaney. “Our ongoing partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association is a way for me to continue to honor my grandfather’s legacy,” said Blaney, ”while helping millions of Americans across the country who are directly impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia.”

New drugs, new laws, and generous donations … all good reasons to believe that the light of a cure at the end of this long dark tunnel might truly be in view. # # #

How Do I Celebrate Father’s Day if my Dad has Dementia?

June 18^th is Father’s Day, a day when fathers are honored and celebrated with special dinners and gifts. If Dad has dementia, it could be challenging to decide how best to spend the day. You know it’s important to continue the lifelong traditions you’ve always held dear, and the gift of your time is the most important thing you can give him. But if you’d like to give him something tangible to open, here are some unique and creative ideas you might not know about – to make your day together a bit more festive.

1. Nature DVDs are a great gift for people with memory loss because they don’t have complicated plots to keep track of. You could even find one that’s set in a place he has visited in the past. Maybe he went to Africa, China, or perhaps he was a national park buff.
2. Have you ever heard of a “fidget sleeve?” It’s an arm-cuff with an endless variety of textures and attachments that you can find on Amazon or specialty stores. The Fidget Blanket is a more elaborate version of the same concept. A proven way to reduce anxiety, restlessness, and agitation, you can customize them with your Dad’s favorite colors or patterns.
3. How about a comfy, colorful sweatsuit? Sweats are everyone’s favorite relaxing clothes, and now there are dementia-friendly ones that have adaptable fasteners. A quick Google search will reveal lots of choices so you can select just the right color and size.
4. Board games and puzzles make great gifts. Board games offer your Dad ways to stay socially connected while keeping his mind active. And you can work the puzzles together for a fun way to spend time. Just be sure you choose from dementia-friendly products that are appropriate for where he is in the progression of his illness.
5. Large-faced clocks are a nice idea … and there are even ones that speak. I’m amazed at the quantity and quality of dementia-friendly gifts out there.
6. Other ideas include digital photo frames that rotate dozens of photos, saving space that big photo albums take up. Weighted blankets provide a calming effect for Dads who have trouble sleeping. And sun lamps, or Seasonal Affective Disorder lamps can help reduce the symptoms of sundowning.
7. And last, but certainly not least, is that special meal (one that his community is not likely to serve). A favorite soup or casserole from his childhood, or something from his favorite “guilty pleasure” fast-food place. Like music, good food can also trigger fond, long-buried memories in a way that few other things can.

Visit www.alzstore.com for dozens of other inventive gift ideas. And while you’re there, make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association. Supporting the organization working to prevent and cure his illness is one of the best ways to honor your father. Happy Father’s Day. # # #

Celebrating Mother’s Day … when your mother has dementia                                                                                

As you think about the many Mother’s Days you celebrated growing up, maybe you remember the burnt pancakes and spilled orange juice you served her in bed, the bouquets of wildflowers you picked, or the elaborate, lacey cards you made her. If your mother has dementia, it might be hard to imagine how to celebrate this Mother’s Day, when things have changed so much.

It’s important—as much for you as for her—to keep these traditions alive. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has some ideas that can help you honor her in a way that respects her condition, brings her comfort, and makes her happy.

Reminisce together. Familiar faces and old photos can bring joy and comfort to someone living with dementia, even if she can’t remember the names. Look at old photos together and describe them for as you go through them—who the people are, what the occasion was, etc. Avoid asking questions like, “do you remember?” as that can make her feel embarrassed or ashamed.

Adapt old favorites. Dementia-related illnesses can impact your mother’s ability to do things as she previously did, so it’s important to be adaptable. If she loved going to a certain restaurant but no longer can, order in food from that place instead. If she enjoyed playing a musical instrument but can’t anymore, listen to her favorite music together.

Create new memories. Quality time together is one of the best Mother’s Day gifts anyone can give. When planning activities, focus on what she is able to do now, versus dwelling on what she used to do. Focus on those things that bring joy and let go of activities that seem too stressful.

Flowers are a gift with therapeutic benefits. Flowers are a very popular Mother’s Day gift, and they can be especially good for someone living with dementia; the scent can help improve mood, promote positive feelings, and stimulate the brain. Purchase a bouquet of fresh flowers, set it on a table, and enjoy the colors and fragrances together.

Make your own Mother’s Day card. Write a Mother’s Day card and read it out loud to her. Even if she can no longer grasp the full meaning, the act of writing it and communicating your love can help lift her spirits, and your own as well. # # #

The Triple Whammy: Covid, Memory Care, and the Holidays 

Like the rest of 2020, the holiday season that wraps it all up will be challenging for all of us. Even more so for those with loved ones in a memory care community … during a pandemic! Drawn from an excellent (but longer) article posted on the Alzheimer’s Association’s website, here are a few quick tips that will make this daunting triple whammy easier. Visit alz.org/help-support/resources/holidays for the entire article.

• Care for yourself: This year, that tried-and-true saying about caring for yourself so you can for others is more important than ever. You’ve made the list, right? So whether it’s candlelight baths, your favorite music, or playing with the family pet, be sure to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, because … well, you know why.
• Adjust your expectations: Be realistic about what you can, and cannot, do this season and then make a plan. Find a way (by phone, email, zoom, skype or other tech device) to have a conversation with family and friends. That way, you can inform them of your plans in advance (so they can adjust their expectations!), and tell them about your loved one’s current condition, whether they can visit or not, changes they might notice, and the importance of safety precautions.
• Celebrate while physical distancing: Remember to maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and any person who is not a member of your household. You can still bake and share your favorite holiday treats; just package them and drop them off in a way that avoids contact, such as leaving them at the front desk of the community. You can also make and mail holiday cards, and encourage other family members to do the same.
• Connect through technology: Use video to capture and share special moments, such as children opening gifts. You can show them to your loved one at your next physically distanced visit. Ask a staff member to help your loved one receive a video call. If that’s not possible, a simple audio phone call can convey a lot.
• Keep current with rules: Be sure to check on the visiting policies at your memory care community; there might be new rules if the “tier color” has changed, or adjustments have been made especially for the season. Knowing what the most current policies are will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises or disappointments, and help you discover new ways to share the holiday with your loved one.
• Reach out for help: The Alzheimer’s Association has a 24/7 helpline. “No question is too big or too small” they say, so please reach out for expert help and calming advice during this time. Here’s the number: 800-272-3900.

Stay safe, stay well, and remember to pause and enjoy the season—however different it might be. # # #

DARE: Don’t Argue, Reason, or Explain

We are all navigating a very new kind of world these days, one filled with roadblocks and uncertainties. And for people with dementia, it can be even more frightening and confusing. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Central Coast Chapter recently ran an article in their newsletter with some valuable tips for those of us caring for loved ones who have dementia.

One of the best rules of the road, even in pre- or post-covid times, can best be remembered by its acronym: DARE. Don’t Argue, Reason, or Explain. Author and Memory Care Specialist Luciana Mitzkun Weston explains it this way:

“Arguing with a loved one with cognitive impairment only results in resistance to care; reasoning is frustrating and futile; and explaining takes a lot of energy and rarely increases comprehension.”

Instead, Weston suggests the following ways of dealing with the safety requirements for preventing  Covid-19 while offering some reassurances.

• Say “flu” instead of Covid-19. Flu is more familiar and less scary than a global illness that is killing millions.
• Don’t take your loved one outside the safe bubble of your home (or care community) unless you know they can maintain distance and keep their mask on.
• Make the masks fun. Find masks with a theme they can identify with, such as cats, sports teams, flags, cars, or flowers.
• For those who are living in a community, window visits may be allowed. Make the most of them by bringing photos to talk about and treats to share.
• Model hand-washing and other safety measures for them. Make it part of your routine with them.
• Listen to their concerns and do your best to calm their anxieties.
• Give plenty of compliments praising their appearance and behavior (masks and distancing)
• Write uplifiting messages (post cards and letters) and stay positive. We’re all experiencing some degree of fear and uncertainty. Try to leave those at the door when visiting with your loved ones who have dementia.

A 24-hour helpline is available for anyone needing help or advice during this trying time: 800.272.3900.

Community Living in the Time of Covid-19 

If you’ve been considering moving your loved one into a Memory Care community but have been putting it off due to Covid-19 concerns, here is some good advice. In a recent article written by Andrea Cooper and published on the website Next Avenue, the author explains the pros and cons. Turns out there are more pros than cons.

Even in normal times, moving a parent into Memory Care can be fraught with emotion. But in the time of Covid-19, that decision becomes even more complicated. In the best of times, “changes in routine can be disorienting and a new home is a big change, especially for a parent with dementia,” Cooper writes. And while the numbers of deaths and outbreaks in nursing homes are scary, Cooper explains there is a critical difference between nursing homes and Memory Care / Assisted Living communities.

“About 45% of all COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. have occurred in long-term care facilities, according to The Kaiser Family Foundation,” says Cooper. “Most of the widely reported outbreaks have been in nursing homes, which differ substantially from assisted living communities.

In nursing homes, residents require care from a licensed nurse; some may be bed-bound or have feeding tubes,” Cooper continues. “Assisted living residents, in comparison, can live somewhat independently, but need help with daily tasks such as hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation.”

Memory Care communities are dedicated buildings or wings of buildings that offer all the assisted living supports, but with added specialized services for those with dementia in a secured perimeter environment. But besides the risk of infection, there is another item to consider. Cooper writes:

“Concerns about moving into assisted living in 2020 go beyond whether residents may contract coronavirus. There’s also the issue of being able to see your parent after move-in.”

For the first few months of the U.S. pandemic outbreak, there were almost no Assisted Living communities allowing visitors. Today (in September of 2020), many are beginning to allow them, if safe guidelines are followed. At Sydney Creek Memory Care in San Luis Obispo, for example, family members can call and make an appointment to see their loved one. They meet in outside courtyards with distancing and masks, or with a plexiglass screen between them.

While your concerns about moving your parent into communal living are well founded, there are still many good reasons to place your parent in a reputable Memory Care community—even during Covid-19. Here are some things to consider as you begin the search. Here’s Cooper again:

“Before the pandemic, visiting potential assisted living communities was a smart way to help choose one. But in-person tours are rare right now, of course. So, get a virtual tour via Facetime or Zoom with the opportunity to ask the facilities’ managers questions by phone.”

Today, many places are opening back up for limited tours using safe guidelines. Sydney Creek is one of them. You can schedule a zoom tour, or a limited in-person tour. And you can get all your questions answered in a simple phone call. From Cooper’s article, here is a list of good questions to ask:

What are your protocols for testing residents and staff for coronavirus?

What safety protocols are in place to prevent COVID-19 from spreading?

What are you doing to engage residents in activities?

For more information, please call 805-543-2350.

Memory Care Communities offer Hope & Help during Covid-19

By Susan Stewart

“The most common pathology I saw [for seniors with dementia] was not heart disease or diabetes, but loneliness,” said Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General.

As Covid-19 continues to infect Americans, the effects of the necessary distancing and social isolation have only served to increase that loneliness. However, as the senior housing industry navigates this brand new world, many memory care communities are finding new and creative ways to encourage healthy social interactions. And that makes placing loved ones in the supportive, communal environments they need much more appealing.

For example, at Sydney Creek Memory Care in San Luis Obispo, administrators and life enrichment staff are overseeing visitors in an outdoor courtyard, by appointment. “After weeks of being locked down, it’s wonderful to see our residents having conversations and taking walks with friends and family members,” said Kirk Klotthor, Administrator. Klotthor said that masks and distancing are still required.

In addition, Life Enrichment staff offer carefully orchestrated activities throughout the day that allow residents to interact with staff and each other for games, puzzles, and music. Times are staggered and the number of people who attend are limited so that distancing and safety can be maintained.

“For many families, our program provides reassurance that their loved ones are not only getting the nutrition and medication management they need, but also the social interaction, preservation of familiar routines, and other stimulation they require for optimal health,” Klotthor added. # # #