Care Management Blog
Early-onset dementia: Money issues
Finances are bound to be a concern if your spouse has received a diagnosis of dementia before age 65. As in many households, your partner’s job may cover important monthly bills. And perhaps essentials such as family health insurance or retirement funding. In the early stages, your partner may be able to reduce hours or…
Read MoreMaking the most of regret
Regret tends to be one of those emotions we’d prefer not to feel. Which is unfortunate, according to researcher Brené Brown. Her point is that “regret can be a fair but tough teacher.” If we don’t let regret mire us in the past—with self-blame and guilt—then we can use it to guide our future. Regret…
Read MoreActing as a “human guide”
If the person you care for has a low-vision diagnosis, you are likely concerned about their ability to orient themselves and learn to move safely without falling or becoming injured. Many people with low vision rely on the assistance of a “human guide.” You may already serve in that function for your loved one. Perhaps…
Read MoreSkin care and aging
The skin is the body’s largest organ and its essential “armor.” To maintain good health, skin needs extra attention as we age. The skin has three layers. Working together, they act as the body’s In the normal aging process, skin Daily routines are important in the care of aging skin. Help your loved one Check…
Read MorePositive connections with staff
Your loved one’s daily experience in a hospital, rehab, or assisted living community—even at home with paid home help—greatly depends on the aides who care for them. You can help ensure a good experience by building a positive relationship with those staff so they are inclined to go the extra mile, even on a bad…
Read MoreChoosing a “senior tablet”
Much of life’s interactions occurs online these days. If your loved one is not tech savvy, has mild dementia, or has little access to support in a facility, you might consider a “senior tablet.” They have limitations compared to the typical consumer tablet, but could well be worth it. They are streamlined and simplified so…
Read MoreDementia: Navigating the airport
As exciting as a trip can be, for a person with dementia, the loss of routine is confusing. And the loud, large, busy terminal spaces are often distressing. Too much stimuli! Your job is to keep the process as calm and unhurried as possible. If you are rushing, flustered, and anxious, your loved one with…
Read MoreWhy Mom doesn’t take her pills
Did your mom teach you to “do what the doctor says”? If she’s not following doctor’s orders for medications now, you’re probably feeling confused. And concerned. It’s common for patients not to take pills as directed. Some typical reasons: Are you worried about medication management? You are not alone! As the Metro DC experts in…
Read MoreHow nutrition affects breathing
Food and oxygen are the basic fuels that we need for the cells of our body to do their jobs. People with COPD have to expend more energy breathing. Because their exhales are not always efficient, they tend to develop high levels of carbon dioxide. Not good. Fortunately, there are food choices that can reduce…
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