Caring for a parent or loved one with dementia is tough enough. When you add in multiple adult children (i.e., siblings) who may hold differing opinions about what is “best,” the situation can become emotionally charged or even harmful to the relationships of those involved. Disagreements about decisions, roles, and responsibilities add significantly to overall stress and can erode both relationships and care quality for the person living with dementia.
Several studies have confirmed that music can have a positive effect on the mood of people living with dementia. Increased levels of eye contact, joy, and overall engagement have all been observed after listening to music. Caregivers at home can utilize music to help reminisce about past memories as a way to offset feelings of loneliness or depression. Music can create context in our minds that spoken word alone cannot. To learn more about the power of music and how caregivers can harness music for connection, attend this local program series for two days of free community events.
Emergencies can be overwhelming, but with preparation, you can make the experience less stressful for both you and your loved one. Preparing for the unexpected may feel daunting, but having a plan in place can transform an overwhelming emergency into a more manageable experience. A ready hospital bag, a clear communication strategy, and the confidence to advocate all help safeguard your loved one’s wellbeing. Review this article for tips on how to prepare.
If you are caring for a person living with dementia at home, Ask Mary is the place to get your questions answered and to learn about helpful resources. In her role as a skilled care services professional at St. John’s, Mary provides care and support for people living with dementia and their families. Check this page on St. John’s Online Dementia Resource Center to see Mary’s answers to submitted questions.
