The Difference Between Dementia Symptoms and Medication Side Effects

 September 16, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

senior-couple-reviewing-medications

Disorientation. Confusion. Memory loss. While these are certainly hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease as well as other types of dementia, they could also come about from taking particular medications. Rather than immediately assuming an inevitable diagnosis of dementia, review the following list of medications that may cause similar effects that can be mistaken for dementia symptoms. (more…)


The Unexpected Emotion That Comes When Caring for Aging Parents

 September 4, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

caregiver-comforting-senior-aging-parent

If you were to list the top five emotions you encounter in caring for aging parents, what would they be? Maybe you’d first think of emotions like compassion, love, and sometimes, even stress or frustration. Would anger make the list? In many cases, though family caregivers may well not like to disclose it, the answer is a definite YES. (more…)


The Many Benefits of a Daily Routine for Seniors

 August 23, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

caregiver-assisting-with-seniors-daily-routine

Life, especially during the course of a pandemic, can be filled with uncertainty. For seniors who are feeling less in command of certain facets of life, such as losing cognitive or physical functioning, focusing on exactly what can be controlled is empowering. (more…)


What is Elderspeak, and Why Is It Harmful?

 August 13, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

grandparent-holding-grandchild-elderspeak

Watch what occurs at your next family get together when a brand new mother places her baby in someone’s arms. The person will likely transition instantly into baby mode: a sing-song, high-pitched voice, overly-simplified speech, and exaggerated facial expressions. Of course, this is perfectly normal and actually good for a baby’s developing brain. (more…)


How to Address a Possible Dementia Diagnosis with the Doctor

 August 5, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

senior-discussing-dementia-diagnosis-with-doctor

Shame. Fear. Embarrassment. The thoughts and feelings surrounding a potential dementia diagnosis can cause older adults to keep their suspicions to themselves. A recently available AARP survey peeled away a few of the layers of emotion to get to the root cause – namely, worry over losing independence and becoming a problem to others. (more…)


What We’re Now Learning About Senior Strength Post-Pandemic

 July 26, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

senior man in a wheelchair holding weights

While we are gradually easing our way out of this pandemic, we are figuring out more information on how it has impacted older adults – both physically and emotionally. We realize older adults have been at a greater risk of serious issues and death from the COVID-19 virus; however, the impact of 15 months of physical distancing and social isolation is now revealing shocking results on senior strength post-pandemic.

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Latinos With Dementia: Study Reveals Surprising Results

 July 19, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

senior hugging family caregiver

A new study sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association is uncovering some surprising results in Latinos with dementia. While further investigation is needed to completely understand whether these differences are the outcome of social/cultural nuances or perhaps the dementia itself, it’s valuable information for Latino families to learn.

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Tips for Communicating With Aging Parents When Safety Is an Issue

 July 12, 2021 by Dean Bellefeuille

family caregiver talking with senior loved one

At Home Independent Living, providing senior care in Memphis, NY and nearby areas, understands that when caring for parents, it is not always an easy task to understand what our role as adult children must be. We would like what is best for them, however if we’re not very careful, it is possible to overstep our boundaries and find ourselves trying to parent our parents. Our own emotions may come out in unintended ways when communicating with aging parents too.

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