Debunking myths about dementia
Talking openly about dementia can help reduce the myths—as well as the fear, shame, stigma and stereotypes—that surround it.
When caregiving becomes complex
If your loved one's health declines, you may find yourself taking responsibility for complicated, difficult tasks that used to fall to medical professionals. "It's not unusual for caregivers to feel overwhelmed," said Linda Pellegrini, a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner at UMass Memorial Medical Center. In her blog post, she explains which tasks are considered complex, how to find resources to help you and why it's imperative to take care of yourself.
Interpreting puzzling behavior
People living with dementia perceive their surroundings differently—and their perceptions can result in behavior that caregivers sometimes find hard to interpret.
“If there’s someone in your life who is living with dementia, looking at their environment through their eyes may give you a better sense of how they feel and why they feel that way,” says Heather Dobbert, a Fallon Health Memory Specialist. “That can make a big difference in your ability to respond to how they’re acting."
Ideas for celebrating holidays during a pandemic
How you can you enjoy the holidays when you can't be with your family and friends in person? Check out these suggestions for connecting with your loved ones to celebrate safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A caregiver perspective on recognizing dementia and building a support circle
Seeing signs of dementia in a loved one can bring up emotions ranging from denial and confusion to anger and fear. In this post about her journey as a caregiver, Lisa Marrone describes her initial response to changes in her mother's behavior and how important it is to look for support after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.