Montessori for people with dementia
Caring for a loved one with moderate-to-advanced dementia often leads to bewilderment. And sadness. Perhaps your relative seems withdrawn. Or is fidgety, pacing, or wandering. They may seem to recede each day. How can you connect with them now? How can you keep them engaged? Experts in dementia care are culling tips from pioneering educator…
Read MoreAdd a dose of laughter to your life
Don’t you just somehow feel better when you laugh? It turns out, that’s not just fantasy. Laughter has physical benefits at the cellular level. Research consistently demonstrates that a good belly laugh engages many different systems in the body. And laughter delivers emotional health benefits as well. Studies show that laughter supports the heart. If…
Read MoreCOVID update
Dear Valued Clients, Families and Professional Partners: I am writing today to share our updated infectious illness protocol at Debra Levy Eldercare Associates in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. While we are very excited about the arrival of the first vaccines being delivered to frontline healthcare workers, we are also mindful that the number…
Read MoreLeaving a legacy with StoryCorps
The desire to leave a legacy calls strongly to many older adults. Perhaps this is of interest to an elder in your family. A legacy does not have to be financial in nature. One way to leave a legacy is to record a personal story and bequeath its insight to future generations. StoryCorps, a project…
Read More“Should we delay that procedure?”
Should your loved one go ahead with cataract surgery? What about a hip replacement? Dental work? A cardiac stress test? In light of COVID, other health issues seem to pale. But putting off treatment or tests can result in tough consequences down the line. How do you know which procedures are worth the risk? Consider…
Read MoreWhat is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure is sometimes called “the silent killer.” This is because it is dangerous but has few outward symptoms. As the heart pumps, it pushes blood through the blood vessels, creating pressure on the artery walls. High blood pressure means that your heart is having to work extra hard to get the basics of…
Read MoreAging in place: Remodel your home
If your goal is to “age in place,” now is the time to consider some remodeling. And there’s no room that demands more physical agility than the kitchen. It’s impossible to foresee how your body may change over time. But making a few thoughtful accommodations now could extend your comfort and independence. Plus, such an…
Read MoreDementia and communication: Listening
People with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss conditions often have trouble expressing themselves, sometimes right from the start of the disease. This can easily lead to confusion and frustration for both of you. Your willingness to exercise patience is key to successful communication: Patience and calm, over and over and over again. This is hard!…
Read MoreVideo chatting for the “tech challenged”
Many older adults are embracing technology to stay connected with family and friends during the pandemic. Although some popular technologies—Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype—are relatively simple, they still require a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Plus some tech savvy. Your loved one may be challenged to learn new skills because of memory issues. Or perhaps arthritis or…
Read More“Should we bring Dad home?”
In the context of COVID, many families are wondering if an older relative would be better off moving out of their assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facility. It’s not an easy question to answer. The advantages of facility living. Facilities have staff on site 24/7 to assist with residents’ needs. They can provide…
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