November is recognized as National Diabetes Awareness Month to raise awareness for the disease and its impact. Due to a larger aging population, increased obesity and diabetes rates, as well as more cognitive disorder diagnoses, scientists have been digging deeper into the possible link between diabetes and dementia. Being aware of the health of your body and your brain can make a world of difference during the aging process.
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family and friends around a meal. This could present new challenges for your loved one living with dementia. You may find that your loved one’s attitude towards eating has changed. As a caregiver, you need to respect his/her preferences, while helping him/her maintain good nutrition and proper hydration throughout the day, a balanced diet, and joy. Review our suggestions for those living with dementia.
Memory loss or other medical conditions associated with early stages of dementia or late stage can impact a person’s ability to tolerate a road trip or air travel so it is a good idea, as the care partner, to review a travel itinerary and apply careful planning before embarking to new places with your older adult. If you are considering long distance travel this holiday, review our checklist to determine if it will be safe for your loved one.
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.
