Resource Library
Content with Target Audience Family Members or Friends .
Resources
What to Know About Recent Government Policies to Support People with Dementia and their Caregivers
The Untied States government has always been a key player in the fight against dementia, but recently it has made an even greater national commitment to address this serious threat to national health. We outline just three recent dementia-related public policies that older adults with dementia and their caregivers should know.
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Helping Older Loved Ones Face Changes in Mental Health
For older adults, mental illness is a conversation made difficult by stereotypes. Assumptions like “Old people are just stubborn” or “He’s become mean as he’s aged” cause many to dismiss mental illness in older adults. For caregivers, messages like these can make it difficult to differentiate mental illness from what are considered “normal parts of aging.”
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What to Know as a Caregiver Before a Loved One’s Hospital Visit
As caregivers, we may encounter sudden changes in a loved one’s health or behavior due to a chronic illness or accident, like a fall. This can be especially worrisome if these changes occur in the middle of the night. We want to get them the help they need as soon as we can, but the first challenge may be trying to decide what is the appropriate place to receive care.
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5 Ways Caregivers Can Improve Relationship Strain with the Person They Care For
When we begin providing care for a loved one, our relationship with that person can take on a new meaning as our role in their life changes. Whether we are their spouse, child, sibling or friend, taking on the role of managing their care or helping them cope with a disease or condition comes with unique responsibilities and relational dynamics. In some cases, caring for a loved one may make our relationship with them stronger, but in others, the stresses of caregiving may lead to increased strain which in turn can negatively impact our relationship with a loved one.
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Managing a Loved One with Dementia’s Sensory Challenges
Dementia can change a loved one’s ability to experience these five senses, and that can have a huge impact on how they view the world. Their favorite food might not taste the same way. They may be startled by the sound of laughter they used to love. They may draw away from a once familiar touch. As a caregiver, it’s important to recognize these changes, and to help make your loved one’s world a more comfortable, less overwhelming place to be for each of their five senses.
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