June 21 is World Music Day. Studies have shown that music may reduce agitation and improve behavioral issues that are common in the middle stages of Alzheimer's disease and other related types of dementia. Even in the later stages of Alzheimer's, a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from childhood. Caregivers can harness the power of music to bring joy to their loved ones with dementia.
Last month was National Stroke Awareness Month. There are important steps for a caregiver to take following a stroke experienced by a loved one. Those already living with dementia who then suffer a stroke are more likely to develop aphasia, which negatively impacts the speech and language part of the brain. Implementing lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing the risk of dementia after a stroke.
Aphasia is a language disorder resulting from an injury to the brain. Common causes of aphasia include stroke, a traumatic brain injury, or even dementia. Aphasia can occur in any type or stage of dementia, but it is more commonly associated with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Language difficulties often precede other cognitive impairments, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention.
If you are caring for a person living with dementia at home, Mondays with Mimi is where you can have your questions answered. In her 20 years at St. John’s, Mimi DeVinney (our Dementia/Quality of Life Specialist) has heard dozens of questions about caring for people living with dementia. Go to the Ask Mimi page of St. John’s Online Dementia Resource Center to see Mimi’s answers to newly submitted questions.
