The ‘Goldilocks Effect’ of Alzheimer’s

Posted on 02. Dec, 2010 by in Alzheimer's, Dementia

Most of us are familiar with the—too much…too little…just right—story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Something similar happens inside the brains, and around the lives, of individuals with Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s is a disease not of just one person, but a condition that affects the entire family. There may be hard times and challenges, but with some small changes you can add quality to this time of life and make new, special memories that you might not have thought possible.

Reading and Resource List

Posted on 15. Jun, 2010 by in Alzheimer's, Brain Activation, Brain Fitness, Brain Injury, Care Giving, Dementia, Health, Knowledge, Memory Loss, Research, Resources, Stroke

If you are concerned about caring for a person living with dementia, or if you’re simply interested in brain aging and health, we’ve developed a list of resources and books to review. Click to read more…

How to know when a loved-one needs help

Posted on 05. Mar, 2010 by in Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Brain Activation, Dementia, Depression

Many changes in life for our aging loved-one, may require attention and support. An active care plan can lessen the impact and improve quality of life. Things may seem normal on the outside, but under the surface nothing is as it should be. The only way to truly know is to be open and honest with yourself and the clues you are seeing.

There are definite signs that indicate some kind of assistance may be necessary. Failing eyesight, memory lapses, confusion, fatigue, sadness, drug and other substance-abuse and appetite changes can account for a diminished ability to manage a home. As spouses and family caregivers, we might want to deny the need for help and hope for the best, but when observed objectively the need for action and increased care is usually undeniable.

This posting contains a simple observational checklist. You may wish to use it to objectively assess your loved-one’s current condition and their ability to safely function independently.