Denying the Human Element
Alzheimer’s Care

Denying the Human Element

I recently interviewed Dr. Michele Ricard, Gerontologist. Dr. Ricard is a specialist in Geriatric and Internal Medicine. She is a Certified Medical Director serving patients living in skilled nursing and rehab facilities. Throughout most of her career, Dr. Ricard was a Clinical Instructor for medical students until retirement 2 years ago. She frequently lectures, sharing her years and wealth of knowledge, to inspire and educate medical professionals. I have had the pleasure of knowing and collaborating with Dr. Ricard for many years. She was the founder of the Elder Community Collaborative, originally started to improve communication and outcomes for patients

Understanding my loved one with Alzheimer’s during the chaos of the holidays
Alzheimer's Care

Understanding my loved one with Alzheimer’s during the chaos of the holidays

The holiday season is a difficult time for many people, especially, if you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.  The usual stressors include, financial hardships, family engagement with challenging dynamics, triggers of significant loss, travel complexities, meeting our family expectations and traditions, etc.  These stressors are significantly heightened for your loved one with Alzheimer’s.    In order to create moments of pleasure and enjoyment during this stressful time, it is helpful to have some understanding of what your loved one is feeling.  You, as the caregiver, are the person who affirms the feelings of safety and security

The Risks of Having Help at Home
Alzheimer's Care

The Risks of Having Help at Home

I read this article, A stranger in the house, and what I read should concern everyone.  We can assume that most everyone would choose to remain living in their own home as opposed to living in a nursing care facility.  However, in order to do that, we must rely on those who provide services in the home.  Home care is not regulated and there are current laws that actually encourage the hiring of underground, very inexpensive, so-called home care providers who are being hired to care for someone in the home.  Why? Well, the answer is cost.  The agencies who