For information about how Family Bridges Home Care can help your family with home care services Norwood OH, call our caregivers today, 888-900-0048. We provide home care services and assistance to our seniors, veterans, and the disabled in our community.

If you would like information about caregivers in Mason OH, contact the caregivers at Family Bridges Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care to seniors, veterans and the disabled loved ones in our communities. Call (888) 900-0048.

Family members frequently struggle with the dilemma of whether or not to share a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease with a loved one, particularly when it is a parent. Doctors are regularly faced with this problem, especially when the patient is the only one to tell, such as elderly people who have outlived their spouses and other family members.

So how much does one tell the patient?

It’s a harder question than one even imagines. Researchers at the University Hospital in Nottingham, England found in a 1999 study that only 40 percent of the geriatricians and psychiatrists who responded to their survey regularly told their patients they had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Questions about the certainty of the diagnosis, doubts about the patient’s ability to understand, the level of insight and the possibility of detrimental effects were all factors that influenced the responses.

General practitioners surveyed in a study conducted by the Department of Geriatrics of Broca Hospital in Paris, overwhelmingly (72 percent) chose not to share the diagnosis with the patient for “psychological reasons” despite most (88 percent) believing it was their role to announce the diagnosis to the patient. The doctors were less reluctant to discuss the diagnosis with family members, but still were inclined to refer to symptoms such as stress, depression and behavior problems rather than put the name of “Dementia” to the problem.
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On the other end of the spectrum, Dr. Simone Gordon, an adjunct professor at Yeshiva University’s Wurzweiler School of Social Work and a long-time psychotherapist with a busy practice, was brief and to the point on the issue. “I think ethically the doctor should tell,” she said.

In a study conducted by researchers at the Department of Neurology in the Taipei Veterans General Hospital, family members had similar views.

The vast majority of those who were surveyed, 93 percent, said they would want to be told if they themselves were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. When it came to being the bearers of bad news, not as many family members were willing to reveal such news to someone else in the family who had received that diagnosis, but still a clear majority (76 percent) thought that to be the best course of action.

In this study, family members struggled with the same important reasons to tell the patient as did the doctors. A patient’s or family member’s right to know, the possibility and responsibility of helping cope, and obtaining early treatments to slow down the progression of the illness were some of the reasons that convinced respondents it was best to share the diagnosis with the patient.

Those who did not agree were concerned about the risks of worsening the disease, causing the patient emotional distress or even to consider suicide, as well as other factors.

These figures were substantiated by a study carried out by a team led by P.M. Conor, who reported that 83 percent of family members who came along with the Alzheimer’s patient to the memory clinic did not want their relative to be informed of the diagnosis.

However, as in the Taiwan study, the majority of relatives – 71 percent — said they WOULD want to be told themselves in the same situation.

More than 80 percent of geriatric psychiatrists said they usually did not inform their Alzheimer’s patients who already reached a stage of severe dementia. However, they nearly always told those who were in the early stages.

The same doctors also reported an inverse relation with regard to informing caregivers about the diagnosis: they tended to share the information with caregivers of severely demented patients more than with caregivers of people only mildly affected.

Dr. Barnett S. Meyers, a Professor of Psychiatry at The New York Hospital Cornell Medical Center, makes a strong, well-documented and thoroughly-footnoted case that patients can generally bear the devastating news, and there is little justification for doctor or caregiver to interfere with a patient’s right to know:

“Arguments that awareness of the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease does damage by causing stigmatisation and depression9 are not based on empirical evidence. Thus, the greater than 20% prevalence of depression identified in early cases10 may result from a variety of causes, including awareness of memory loss symptoms and the pathophysiology of the disorder.11 Despite the association between confrontation of cognitive deficits and transient emotional reactions, there is no evidence of long term sequelae. Furthermore, the ability of patients with Alzheimer’s disease to deny their illness through psychological defences12 or neuropsychological deficits13 mitigates against arguments that awareness of diagnosis leads to lasting psychological damage.”

Dr. Barnett Meyers is clearly in favor of informing the patient of the diagnosis. Beyond the patient’s right to know, he goes on to emphasize the advantages of early treatment aimed at slowing the progression of the disease, which can best take place when a person is fully informed of their condition. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s does not mean it is over, and a well-prepared person has many good days ahead. To drive home that point, the doctor headlines his editorial with a subtitle that sums up one clear reason for telling patients they have Alzheimer’s disease: “Important for planning their future.”

For more articles and information on dementia and caregiver tips visit www.AlzheimersWeekly.com

Only one in ten people realize that taking regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce their risk of developing dementia, according to a survey commissioned by Alzheimer’s Society and Bupa.

This is despite the fact research has shown that regular exercise can reduce your risk of dementia by up to a third.

Over a quarter (28%) of people believed brain training and crosswords to be the best way to reduce the risk of developing dementia, despite the jury still being out on whether this can be effective.

Dr. Anne Corbett, The Alzheimer’s Society’s Research Manager, said:

‘This research shows that many people don’t realize physical activity can have a real impact in determining whether you develop dementia. Along with moderating alcohol intake, maintaining a regular weight and not smoking, taking regular exercise can actually reduce your dementia risk by up to a third.’

Exercising can not only reduce a person’s risk of developing dementia, but can also prevent other diseases related to lifestyle.

To “put their money where their mouth is,” The Alzheimer’s Society works with the Bupa organization to put together an impressive marathon. 3,500 people take part in the Bupa Great North Run to support The Alzheimer’s Society, Bupa’s nominated charity for a third consecutive year.

Dr. Graham Stokes, Bupa’s Director of Dementia Care said:

‘Lots of people believe that dementia is an inevitable part of old age – that’s not the case at all and there’s lots people can do to reduce their risk. Just 30 minutes of physical activity, five times a week will help reduce your risk of not only dementia, but also heart disease and diabetes. It doesn’t have to be a vigorous workout – you can find ways to fit being active into your daily routine, such as walking, gardening or swimming.

If you’re up for a challenge, supporting the Alzheimer’s charities in a Bupa Great Run means you can get fit, help reduce your risk of dementia and raise money for a very worthwhile cause. As the UK’s leading provider of dementia care, we’re very pleased to be supporting Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer Scotland for a third year.’

Over 19,000 people have taken part in a Bupa Great Run for Alzheimer’s Society in the last two years, raising over £2 million. The aim is to raise over £3.5 million by the end of the year.

More importantly, it’s a great way to prevent dementias such as Alzheimer’s.

To Read More About Dementia Prevention visit www.AlzheimersWeekly.com

For most of us, the holiday season is a time filled with family and friends, laughter and reminiscing, happiness and joy. Caring for a loved one with dementia can change a joyous season into a time of stress, frustration, and loneliness.

• Friends and family might feel uncomfortable visiting, not knowing what to expect, what to say, or what to do in response to changes in a loved one’s behavior and personality.
• You might not receive invitations to traditional social gatherings, leaving you feeling isolated and alone.
• You might feel “trapped” by having to remain at home instead of visiting friends, doing holiday shopping, or engaging in the season’s social activities.

Situations like these can lead to feelings of resentment toward the person with Alzheimer’s and feelings of guilt if you are fortunate enough to enjoy any holiday activities at all.

When you care for a person with a dementia such as Alzheimer’s, the stress can be overwhelming. In addition to trying to keep a calm, simple routine, you might also feel compelled to maintain traditions for the rest of the family with all the hustle and bustle so common to the season. Furthermore, many pleasant memories of past holidays are now being replaced with anxiety, frustration and sadness.

It doesn’t have to be this way. By using “an ounce of prevention,” caregivers can alleviate some of the misery and frustration. The following tips can help make the holidays joyful once again.
1. Set Expectations

Familiarize family and friends with the behavior and condition of your loved one. Let them know the situation and protocol for visiting by writing a letter. For example:

“To my family and friends:

I’m writing to let you know how things are going at our house. While we’re looking forward to your visit, we thought it might be helpful if you understood our current situation before you arrive.

You may notice that “Name” has changed since you last saw him/her. Among the changes you may notice are “XYZ”. I’ve enclosed a picture so you know how “Name” looks now.

Because “Name” sometimes has problems remembering and thinking clearly, his/her behavior is a little unpredictable.

Please understand that “Name” may not remember who you are and may confuse you with someone else. Please don’t feel offended by this. He/she appreciates your being with us and so do I. Please treat him/her as you would any person. A warm smile and a gentle touch on “Name’s” shoulder or hand will be appreciated more than you know.

I would ask that you call before you come to visit or when you’re nearby so we can prepare for your arrival. Caregiving is a tough job, and I’m doing the very best I can. With your help and support, we can create a holiday memory that we’ll treasure.”

2. Adapt Gift-Giving

Share a list of useful and needed gifts with family and friends. They will want to bring gifts for you both and will appreciate the help you offer. You might want to suggest items that will make bathing, dressing and living easier.
Bathing:

• A waterproof radio
• A shower/bath chair
• A hand-held showerhead
• A pretty night light
• A long-handled shower brush
• Non-stinging shampoo
• Soap-on-a-rope

Dressing:

• Easy-to-remove clothing in comfortable, machine washable fabrics
• A jogging suit that pulls on or has Velcro fastenings
• A brightly colored cardigan sweater
• Slip-on shoes/slippers with Velcro closing
• Slipper socks with non-skid soles
• Leg warmers

Living:

Avoid gifts such as dangerous tools or instruments, utensils, challenging board games, novels, complicated electronic equipment or pets. Here are a few recommendations:

• A NERF (sponge) ball
• A Medic-Alert® + Safe Return® identification bracelet/necklace
• A portable player with a tape or CD of favorite music or messages from family and friends
• A photograph album filled with people and places that are a part of your loved one’s past, with a simple caption describing each photo
• A neighborhood picture book
• Photos of the house in which you live, and of the street on which you live, and perhaps familiar local landmarks, stores and neighbors
• Videos of family get-togethers

Memory Stimulation:

• Recordings of old radio/TV programs and CDs of familiar music
• Original audio or video tapes
• Ask a friend or family member who owns a camcorder to make a video. Speak directly to your loved one and use close-ups of your face and other friends and family. Repeat your name and identify your relationship, speak reassuringly and slowly; this is a gift which will be used for a long time, and can never be used up. Videos can be viewed when you need to be away for a time to keep your loved one calm.
• Record an audio tape for your loved one. For example: “Hello (name of loved one). This is your (wife, husband, daughter, etc.) You live at (address).”
• Continue by telling about your life and times that you have shared. Be sure to repeat names frequently, and to convey the message that you are speaking to a person about whom you care deeply.
• A felt board with names of family members and/or familiar objects cut out and backed with Velcro. A photo should accompany each name in order to play “Match ‘Em.”

TIP: Don’t be afraid to ask for the help and support you need.

3. Prepare

• Prepare your loved one in advance for the upcoming events.
• Place seasonal books, magazines and decorations about the house
• Talk about the people who may be coming to visit
• Play familiar seasonal music
• Serve favorite seasonal food
• Do some simple preparation ahead of time — watching you will familiarize your loved one with the festivities to come

4. Plan for “Down Time”

Plan for some quiet-time activities.
Have a favorite tape or DVD on hand
Be prepared with some simple repetitive activity to maintain calmness: cracking nuts, folding napkins, or shelling peas
Leave time to allow yourself and your loved one to take a walk
Keep some old photo albums handy — it is usually calming to go through them together

TIP: Make sure the family understands your needs and wishes.Give yourself permission to do only what you can reasonably manage.

5. Streamline Your Traditions

Hold a family meeting or conference call to discuss the upcoming event
Make sure that everyone understands your caregiving situation and has realistic expectations about what you can and cannot do
Run through celebrations and rituals of years gone by and determine which of these to continue and what new traditions may be initiated
Set limits as to what you are able to do — and what is not possible for you
Consider holding a simpler gathering with fewer people present
Discuss having a potluck dinner or asking others to host the holiday at their home
Look for ways to simplify shopping and gift-giving

TIP: Sharing a list of practical gift ideas will make the holidays happier for everyone involved.

6. Involve the Person with Dementia

Choose tasks that are appropriate for your loved one to help with. Allow sufficient time to get them done. For example:
Baking cookies or mixing dough
Preparing and putting up seasonal decorations (stay away from artificial fruits and vegetables and blinking lights, which may lead to confusion)
Simple cleaning tasks like polishing silver, vacuuming or dusting
Wrapping packages
Preparing a salad
Setting the table

7. Timing Is Everything

Celebrate early in the day to reduce the likelihood of “Sundowner Syndrome” (evening confusion)
Have a holiday lunch rather than a dinner
Don’t serve alcohol, use sparkling apple juice
Keep the lights on to keep the room bright

TIP: Don’t have the television playing when guests are there.

8. Give Yourself a Gift

Take some time off

Cultivate your sense of humor — it will help to keep you healthy

Ask a friend or relative if they can provide specific help. For example, “Can you please take “Name” to his doctor’s appointment on Tuesday?” or “Can you come over to watch “Name” for three hours next Saturday while I go shopping?”

Arrange for home care so you can enjoy lunch or a movie with a friend
Handy Information:

You may want to print out this article and use is as a checklist to help prepare for the holiday. If you do, here are some helpful numbers to jot down and keep handy:

IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS for the HOLIDAYS

Support Group ______________________________

Adult Day Care Center _________________________

Other _____________________________________

Health care can be confusing.

Whether you are just starting treatment or your treatment is already underway, it is never too late to take an active role in your health care.

By talking with your doctor, nurses, and other people on your senior care team, you can make sure you are not missing the best treatment for you.

Here are a few tips to help you better understand your treatment options:

1. Give your doctor as much information as you can.
Don’t wait for your doctor to ask questions. Share everything—even information that might be embarrassing. This information can help your doctor make better recommendations.

• Tell your doctor about all your symptoms.
• Talk about what is most important to your quality of life. You can use the Department of Health & Human Services’ Health Priorities Tool to make a list of what is important to you.
• Keep a list of your past illnesses, operations, and treatments. Share the list with your family and bring it to your appointment.
• Bring a list of your medicines (or bring them in a bag) to your appointment. Tell the doctor how much and how often you take each medicine.
• Tell your doctor about allergies, reactions, or side effects you’ve had from medicines.
• Tell your doctor if you take herbal products or alternative medicines, supplements, or treatments.

2. Ask as many questions as you need to understand your diagnosis.

If you do not ask questions, your doctor may think you understand everything you are being told.

Write down your questions before your visit so you do not forget anything. Start by asking the most important ones and work your way down the list. To get you started, here are some questions you might want to ask:

• Why would this treatment be good for me?
• What are the chances this treatment will work?
• When will I notice a difference?
• How much does this treatment cost?
• Will this treatment hurt?
• What are my other options?
• Are there side effects?
• What can be done about the side effects?

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If you and your family are facing dementia in a parent or loved one and need help with care, Family Bridges Home Care is the answer. For information about how Family Bridges can help you and your family with senior care in Dayton OH, call our caregivers at (888) 900-0048. We provide quality and affordable care and assistance to seniors, veterans and the disabled in our community.