November 19, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
It’s here! The holiday season is in full swing, filled with laughter, decorations, and of course, family gatherings. But let’s be real: it can also be packed with stress, tempting treats, and a hectic pace that leaves everyone a little frazzled. If you’re caring for an older loved one, you know how quickly the holidays can turn from “merry and bright” to “chaotic and overwhelming.” And if hypertension is a factor, it can be even more of a challenge. Between extra salty holiday meals, busy schedules, and unexpected stressors, holiday hypertension management can be daunting. But never fear; with some thoughtful planning and small adjustments, you can help keep their health in check while still enjoying all the festive cheer. (more…)
October 21, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
When most people think of Parkinson’s disease, tremors or difficulty moving likely come to mind first. But if you’re caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s, you may have noticed they’re dealing with so much more than just movement issues. Parkinson’s hidden symptoms, such as depression, sleep problems, and cognitive changes, can have just as much of an impact on daily life, but often go unnoticed or untreated. Understanding these symptoms is crucial to providing the best possible care for someone you love with Parkinson’s disease. (more…)
October 14, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
It’s a typical morning, and you’re helping Dad get ready for the day. You’ve picked out several options of outfits for him to choose from, but he balks and refuses to wear any of them. In fact, he’s been wearing the same outfit for several days now, despite your gentle requests each day to change. Sound familiar? Many family caregivers face this daily struggle, as dementia can make even simple tasks like changing clothes feel overwhelming. The good news is that with a few helpful strategies and plenty of patience, you can overcome dementia dressing challenges and make the process smoother. (more…)
September 23, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
Watching a loved one manage the daily challenges of COPD can be tough. You see them struggle with breathlessness and fatigue, and you want to do everything you can to help. What you might not realize is that there are other COPD-related health complications, known as comorbidities, which need to be addressed and managed in tandem with COPD. The best way to help someone with COPD is by learning about these potential comorbidities, and then supporting and advocating for the person to receive screenings and treatment as needed. (more…)
September 10, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
If your mom has dementia and is struggling to remember your name or losing track of her daily routine, an unsettling thought might creep into your mind: “Will this happen to me, too?” It’s natural to struggle with the fear of facing the same challenges as a loved one with dementia. We invite you to take a deep breath and consider the following facts, causes, and risk factors about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease to help empower you to navigate these worries and find some peace of mind. (more…)
August 6, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
We’ve all experienced that moment of sheer panic when we can’t find our keys or wallet. It’s frustrating and disorienting. Now, picture this happening multiple times a day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a recurring part of life for those with dementia. Dementia-related hiding is a common and unsettling behavior when the person intentionally hides objects, typically in places you’re not likely to look.
Why would someone with dementia hide things? There are several key issues that may be at play.
- Memory loss and confusion: Hiding items can be a manifestation of the confusion and memory loss that accompany dementia. As memory fades, a person with dementia may no longer remember where they placed their belongings, leading them to hide items in what seems like a safe spot. This action can give them a sense of security and help alleviate their anxiety about losing things.
- Paranoia and suspicion: Dementia often brings about an increased sense of paranoia and suspicion. The person may become suspicious of those around them, fearing that others might take their possessions. This heightened sense of mistrust can prompt them to hide their belongings in an attempt to protect them.
- Loss of organizational skills: It might become challenging for someone with dementia to understand the purpose of everyday objects or recall where they belong. Hiding items can be a misdirected attempt at organization, a way to manage the overwhelming task of keeping track of their environment.
- Need for engagement: Rummaging and hiding can be a form of engagement or activity for someone with dementia. As they lose the ability to engage in more complex activities, these simpler actions can provide a sense of purpose and occupation. These activities can fill their time and offer a feeling of accomplishment.
Understanding the reasons behind dementia-related hiding can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience and improve how you care for someone with dementia. Try:
- Creating a safe and structured environment: Ensure that their living space is organized and free of hazards. Consistency in the arrangement of furniture and personal items can reduce confusion and make it easier for them to find what they need.
- Labeling common hiding spots: Clearly label drawers, cupboards, and storage areas. This can serve as a helpful reminder of where things belong and can reduce the likelihood of items being hidden in unusual places.
- Maintaining a routine: A predictable daily routine can provide a sense of security and reduce anxiety. Regularly scheduled activities, meals, and rest times can help create a structured environment that feels safe and familiar.
- Providing engaging, meaningful activities: Keep their minds and hands busy with activities that are appropriate for their abilities and interests. Simple tasks like sorting, folding, or working with sensory objects can be both calming and fulfilling.
We’re also here to partner with you to alleviate the underlying reasoning behind hiding items and other challenging effects of dementia. Contact us at (315) 579-HOME (4663) to learn more about our highly creative and specialized in-home dementia care in Syracuse, Camillus, Clay, and the surrounding areas in Central New York.
June 6, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
There is no other experience like trying to care for someone with dementia. It requires you to dig deep down into your reserves of flexibility, patience, and perhaps most importantly, creativity. You have to be ready to pivot at a moment’s notice from one strategy to another to promote a fulfilling and enriching life for the person you love, all while managing the more challenging aspects of the condition. (more…)
May 21, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
Talking to someone you love who is living with cancer can be awkward and uncomfortable for both parties to say the least. Should you jump right in and talk about the elephant in the room, or avoid the C word altogether? Is it ok to try to make the person laugh? What if they start crying? Conversations become loaded with unspoken emotions, and finding the right words isn’t easy. (more…)
May 3, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
One thing you can count on with Alzheimer’s is a legion of researchers constantly fighting to find the cure. When someone you love is diagnosed with the disease, however, the urgency to find help is all the greater. If this is you, be encouraged! Though Aduhelm, the controversial drug approved by the FDA in 2021, stirred debate and raised questions about its effectiveness and safety, scientists have been diligently working on alternative approaches that offer renewed hope. (more…)
February 13, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille
If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, you know firsthand how challenging the ever-changing progression of care needs can be. As the condition advances, there comes a point when 24-hour dementia care becomes not only beneficial but essential for ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life for the individual. (more…)
