Did you know that more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia right now? Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia in older adults. Here…
READ MORECategory: Alzheimer’s & Dementia
READ MOREHow to Live Well with Parkinson’s Disease: 4 Essential Care Tips
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and the latest data show that Parkinson’s incidence is on the rise—last year there was a 50% increase in newly diagnosed cases. This is attributed to a larger population of people aged 65 and up since age is the primary risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. Commonly known for its movement or motor-related symptoms, such as tremors,…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MORETips for Gen Z and Millennials Supporting a Loved One Living with Dementia
Caring for a loved one with early onset dementia may mean taking on caregiving responsibilities earlier than expected. Dr. Macie provides some helpful guidance for Millennials and members of Gen Z. The recent announcement regarding Bruce Willis’ dementia diagnosis has likely raised many questions. While many people think dementia only occurs in older people, Bruce…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREEarly Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
By Dr. Macie Smith Aging expert Dr. Macie Smith explains the warning signs to look for. As the name implies, early onset Alzheimer’s, sometimes called younger onset Alzheimer’s, occurs in people younger than 65. While it only accounts for 5-10% of all Alzheimer’s cases, it progresses much more rapidly than Alzheimer’s in people over the…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREWhat to Expect As Your Loved One Ages: Four Ways to Start Advance Care Planning
By Dr. Macie Smith When a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s important to start advance care planning as early as possible. Aging expert Dr. Macie Smith offers these tips to get the process started. As I discussed previously, when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it is critical that you take…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREFour Steps to Person-centered Care for Your Loved One Living With Alzheimer’s
Research shows that taking a person-centered approach to caring for someone with Alzheimer’s enhances quality of life not only for the person living with Alzheimer’s, but for the entire family as well. A person-centered approach to care means focusing on the individual–not their condition. It supports the unique needs of the person receiving care so…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREWhat to Expect As Your Loved One Ages: Consulting a Doctor About Memory Lapses
By Dr. Macie Smith You’ve noticed your parent or loved one is experiencing more frequent memory lapses, increased repetition and forgetfulness of new or routine information. It’s time to share those concerns with a health care professional. Aging expert Dr. Macie Smith walks you through what to expect and how to prepare for a professional…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREWhat to Expect As Your Loved One Ages: Does Mom or Dad Have Dementia?
By Dr. Macie Smith Memory lapses can be a normal part of aging, but when are they cause for concern? Aging expert Dr. Macie Smith explains the warning signs to look for. Occasionally forgetting where the keys are, walking into a room and forgetting why or not being able to find the right word are…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREHow to Identify Non Verbal Signs of Pain in Dementia and Communicate Effectively
Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias gradually diminish a person’s ability to communicate. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, communication with a person with Alzheimer’s requires patience, understanding and good listening skills. Using a person-centered approach can be very effective. Person-centered care emphasizes the individual’s unique needs, personal experiences and strengths rather than focusing on their declining…
READ MORERelated Articles
READ MOREExpert Tips to Support Someone Living With Dementia
Aging expert and SYNERGY HomeCare partner Dr. Macie Smith shares tips to promote your loved one’s independence and preserve their dignity when living with dementia. Watch her recent appearance on “Good Morning Arizona” to learn: Early signs of dementia How to help your loved one guide their own plan of care Signs that professional home…
READ MORE
