Judgement Day

It’s strange how caregiving affects us. After I wrote the blog about Dad moving in with us last fall, I began to feel protective of his feelings and now I have become extra sensitive about ensuring his dignity is preserved no matter the price. As a result, I have found myself to be less than…

Thanksgiving For the Ages

This story is based on a family I had in counseling. The preparations were underway for our family of 16 to have Thanksgiving Dinner together.  It had been years since we were all together and between running to the airport, changing sheets, setting the tables and pulling out family recipes, my Mother kept wandering through…

I had no idea.

Seriously, I thought I had a good handle on understanding the dynamics of dementia and how the syndrome manifests. Hell, I created the Virtual Dementia Tour to help sensitize people to what it’s like to have dementia. My 34 year career has been dedicated to the care and treatment of people with dementia and their…

Joining a New Herd

By: P.K. Beville When we became parents, we joined the herd of other parents who gave helpful advice, told hysterical stories about their children and even at times commiserated. Being a part of this herd helped the journey through parenthood and most people in the herd with us learned valuable lessons from each other. I…

Empathy

Empathy doesn’t come naturally unless there is a basic understanding of what another person’s life is like. In fact, it’s easiest to have empathy for people our own age who are experiencing many of the same life challenges we are. In fact, we innately understand challenges they face and can come up with ways to…

What Now?

OK, the diagnosis of dementia of the Alzheimer’s Type is made. There ARE things you can do to help you or your loved one. There needs to be a Diet rich in protein given 3 times a day with 2-3 snacks. Stay hydrated. Changes in cognition can happen when people are dehydrated so Cheers!  …