Caregivers and care partners of those with Alzheimer's disease or a related form of dementia can experience great satisfaction and fulfillment in caring for their loved one. However, they often don't have enough time to take care of themselves, which can lead to stress and can cause issues with their...

One of the most basic human needs is to feel loved, and Valentine's Day presents the perfect opportunity for caregivers to meet this need for someone with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. Even though individuals with memory loss no longer have the same cognitive awareness they once did,...

As we all look forward to another year, no doubt many of us are making resolutions that include ways to become healthier. I'd like to encourage everyone to consider a resolution focused on their brain health in 2013, especially as the number of those who develop Alzheimer's disease continues to...

Seniors are known to have enduring spirits. Many have an amazing ability to handle hardships, most likely because they have already weathered so many storms in their life. Despite this resiliency, dealing with natural disasters can pose unique challenges for those in the older population who are frail and may...

Receiving the news that a loved has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related form of dementia is often life-changing. As our population ages, more and more of us are faced with the difficult reality that our loved ones are experiencing increased memory impairment. Whether this is in the...

A common myth about aging is that as people grow older they will inevitably experience memory loss. While it is true that normal aging brings about some age-related brain changes, including minor changes in memory, often referred to as "senior moments," those changes do not affect one's ability to independently...

Transitioning from the role of spouse or significant other to that of a caregiver for a person with memory loss can place a lot of stress and strain on a relationship. One particular aspect that is often affected, but seldom openly discussed, is how memory impairment affects the sexual expression...

Creating meaningful connections with a loved one with memory loss can be frustrating at first, but ultimately it can be very rewarding. Sometimes the supposed "tried and true" methods that caregivers, family members and friends use to connect with the individual seem to have minimal to no effect. As a...

With the onset of summer, many are looking forward to celebrating beloved traditions. These traditions -- Fourth of July fireworks, summer barbecues, trips to the beach or family reunions -- often involve seniors, including those with memory loss. Ensuring that your loved one with memory loss participates in as many...

For individuals with memory loss, mealtimes provide social engagement, sensory stimulation and enjoyment, and can add structure and routine to their day. However, mealtimes can also present some challenges for caregivers, especially as their loved ones' memory loss progresses. There are some ways that caregivers can improve the...

Can you imagine how it would feel if you were no longer able to accomplish a meaningful hobby, routine or familiar activity such as going out to dine with your friends independently? This is a common experience for people suffering from Alzheimer's disease or another form of memory loss.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about what makes a house feel like a home? For some, it is a big kitchen with lots of space for entertaining friends or a tranquil master suite where they can get away from all the cares of...

No doubt you can still recall your first dog or cat and all the joy they brought into your life. For the young as well as the old, especially if they have Alzheimer's disease or another form of memory loss, there are many benefits in caring for pets.

I...

New Year's is a great opportunity for caregivers to recognize the challenges they may face in 2012 and recommit themselves to becoming a better caregiver every day. Choosing just one of the activities below that you may not be doing currently can have a major impact on your loved one...

In the early 1980s, most people with Alzheimer's disease would have simply been labeled as "senile." Spouses and adult children would take on the responsibility of providing care until it was time for a nursing home, where they received care in an institutional setting.

Since then, there have been...

People with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of memory loss often seem to live in a different reality or a different time and place. Despite this disconnect, we should not simply dismiss a person as "gone" or focus so narrowly on all the abilities that the person has lost. Instead,...

Sept. 21 is designated as World Alzheimer's Day, where people around the world unite to raise awareness for Alzheimer's disease. Last year, Maria Shriver marked World Alzheimer's Day by highlighting that, "The nation's 78 million baby boomers are at the forefront of a coming Alzheimer's tsunami....

Pat Summitt, the legendary women's college basketball coach, announced this week that she would continue coaching after her diagnosis of younger-onset Alzheimer's at the age of 59. She has set an example for thousands of others who are diagnosed with the degenerative cognitive disease during the height of...

Mr. Richards*, a slight man with thick, brown-rimmed glasses and a gait that revealed him to be every bit his age of 80, made himself quickly known to residents and staff alike in the assisted living community.

"Have you seen my mother?" he'd ask repeatedly, for hours, as he wandered...

Some people struggle with celebrating Father's Day once their dad begins suffering the effects of Alzheimer's disease or other forms of memory loss. You and your family may feel like the past traditions just aren't possible anymore. However, the day can still be meaningful for both your dad and the...