The Fieldstone Feed

Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia are increasing worldwide. In fact, every 66 seconds someone in the United States develops the disease. Because the number of people living with dementia are growing at a rapid pace, the need for specialized care has also increased.

Managing a parent's finances is a reality many children will face. In fact, about 22 million people age 60 or older have selected someone to make financial decisions on their behalf. Because the shift can happen suddenly, due to illness, an emergency, or a decrease in cognitive abilities – it is best to be as prepared and organized as possible before an emergency occurs. Knowing what to do when the time arises will mitigate stress and help ensure investments are protected.

The sun’s rays are known to be a mood booster and improve Vitamin D levels. We all want to soak in these benefits and at the same time, make sure that we are maximizing sun safety. Here are some tips for safely enjoying your time outside:

When you are beginning your journey of selecting a memory care community for your loved one, there are many things to consider. People living with Alzheimer’s or dementia require specialized care in a secure environment – which almost all memory care communities offer. However, determining what life would be like on a day-to-day basis is important to make sure they receive the best care while living a happy and fulfilled life.

Summer is here, and it is important to make sure you and the people in your life stay hydrated while the temperature continues to rise. As you go outside and enjoy the beautiful sunshine, make sure to keep hydration top of mind and take measures to prevent a potential health problem.

As you consider senior living options, it is helpful to familiarize with some commonly used terms that will help you make an informed decision for you or your loved one. While the senior living glossary of terms is quite extensive, to get you started, we have outlined five of the most commonly used expressions below.

When you no longer feel comfortable living alone or you would like a reprieve from the stresses that come from owning a home, senior living is a great option. By beginning the research into senior living communities you can be prepared to make decisions in the future.

 As Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia progress, it is common for a person to gradually lose their ability to communicate. As the disease reaches its most advanced stage most verbal communication ceases for the senior. As a loved one or a caregiver, this is heartbreaking to watch. Communication is a way people connect, strengthen relationships, and bond with each other. Taking away this connection, especially during an emotional time, is hard on both loved one and senior.

 Speaking to your aging parents about assisted living can be an emotional experience for the whole family. It marks a transition and the beginning of a new chapter for your parents. Maybe you’ve decided to start this conversation because you noticed your parents need or because have expressed being lonely. Whatever the reason, having an open dialogue from the research stage through the decision-making process can assist in ensuring this is a positive experience.

According to the Caregiver Alliance, the average family caregiver is a 49-year-old female who works a full-time job outside of the house and has elementary age children. Because her only focus is not being a caregiver, other demands on her time are bound to come up. Whether it is a business trip, vacation, a school recital or just needing some time for herself, help is needed. That is where respite care comes in.