We are learning more about how to work with the difficult behaviors associated with dementia.  Dr. G. Allen Power talked about his unique way of working with people who have dementia by really trying to figure out why are they doing what they are doing.  By changing the way we describe behaviors it forces us to take on a different paradigm. Wanderers are really seekers with a purpose. Our goal is find that purpose and address the underlying reasons. Dr. Powers just came out with a new book called “Dementia Beyond Drugs”.  I have just ordered it and will have my staff read it as well.

  1. There is progress in research on both the early identification helping develop treatments that slow the progress of the disease and in drugs that hold promise in treating Alzheimer’s.
  2. One of the best ways to minimize your risk of developing Alzheimer’s is exercise 30 minutes a day!  Brain, heart, energy, mood,………30 minutes can mean so much to your long-term health happiness!
  3. Doctors who are involved in research are in need of patients for their clinical studies.  You can find information on how to participate in a research project on the Alzeimer’s Foundation website.  Both Dr. Frank Longo at Stanford University’s Memory Clinic and Dr. Michael Weiner of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative are looking for people to help them make progress in the fight against this disease.  I am going to talk with Dr. Longo’s staff about how I might be able to participate.

At Caring Hands Caregivers, we aim to preserve our clients’ dignity through quality in-home care.  When we’re better able to walk in their shoes, that makes us even better equipped to take good care of them.   If you or a loved one in the Bay Area need a caregiver, call us at 650.943.2313 to schedule a free care options review.