From the desk of Rosemary Laird, MD
Founder of Navigating Aging Needs
How You Can Help Fight Alzheimer’s
You and your loved one may be able to help speed along scientific progress through participating in a clinical trial. It's an act of volunteership that I hold in the highest regard. The "citizen scientists" who help in clinical trials are truly helping change the world, and scientists cannot, and will not, advance towards cure if we don't have the help of more individuals and families who are facing Alzheimer's disease.
When the Heavens Align
Next Monday millions of Americans will get a rare treat: Around midday, the sky will briefly go completely dark. The stars will come out, birds will start singing, and insects will be chirping. They will be experiencing a total solar eclipse. The dancing spheres in the heavens can serve as an inspiration to caregivers everywhere to reflect on the importance of getting alignment in their daily lives.
Happy Easter, Feaster!
The coming Easter holiday is a time of deep religious significance for those of the Christian faith, but I also love how the holiday is celebrated through family, food and feasts. There are decorated hard-cooked Easter eggs, chocolate bunnies, hot-crossed buns, and an afternoon supper of spring lamb, among other traditions. Whatever your holiday tradition, enjoy spending time with your family, and make sure you have at least one piece of chocolate!
Health Injustice
Caregivers for minority patients suffering from Alzheimer’s are further burdened by structural issues in the healthcare system, including language barriers, lack of culturally appropriate educational materials, and an overall unfamiliarity with navigating a complex medical system, which leads to later diagnoses and under-utilization of health resources. Here at NAN we are committed to advancing Alzheimer’s care for everyone, so please reach out to your Navigator for help in your journey.
Spring Forward!
Conceived of by Ben Franklin as a way to economize on candle burning, and first implemented nationally by Germany to save energy during World War I, the soon-to-arrive annual transition to Daylights Saving Time (DST) has been a controversial part of American life for more than half a century. For a caregiver treating a loved one with Alzheimer’s the drawbacks of the time shift can be even worse.
Remember This!
It’s important to note that memories aren’t “stored” in a particular place in the brain, like you might put a file in a folder. Rather, the latest scientific thinking is that a particular memory is stored throughout the brain, a little like a hologram. That means “retrieving” a memory can be prone to errors and distortions and can change over time. To keep your own memory healthy and robust, remember that the mind is very closely integrated with the body.
Keeping It Positive!
As unlikely as it might sound, consciously changing the words and tone of your inner voice can create dramatic changes in your brain and body. Researchers using brain scans found that people who engaged in positive self-talk had certain areas of their brains light up with activity — areas that were associated with better decision-making and calmness.
Good News, Bad News
A host of recent studies have also shown that lifestyle changes such as altering one’s nutrition, exercising, getting enough sleep, and managing other issues such as diabetes can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s for some patients, and delay the onset of the disease in others.
We Have Liftoff!
As the old saying goes, “If we can put a person on the moon, why can’t we….”. And nothing is more true of that statement than research on Alzheimer’s disease. Despite decades of study and billions of dollars spent, we are still far away from knowing what causes the disease, and how to cure it. But there is hope.
Resolutions For Yourself
Developing “self-compassion” is not an easy task, particularly for those whose daily lives are deeply involved with trying to maintain the ongoing wellbeing of a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. But if you don’t care for yourself, first, you won’t have the capability to care for someone else.
Remebering Two Pioneers of Alzheimer's Caregiving
We’ve recently seen the passing of two remarkable women known not only for their pioneering role in the U.S. government, but also for their deep commitment to championing issues of mental health, dementia, and caregiving.
Giving Yourself Peace of Mind!
It is our hope that NAN gives you some peace of mind about your role as a family caregiver, by proving the information and tools you need to find a little corner of calm for yourself.
Make the Most of the Holidays!
With a little advanced planning, and a lot of focus on the meaning of the celebration rather than on the mundane trappings of the local mall, you can make the holidays a fulfilling time for you and your loved one.
Giving Thanks, and Getting Help
Thanksgiving as a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the blessings of our lives with family and friends. As a caregiver of someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, there are many challenges to consider in the upcoming holiday season. But with a little preparation and awareness, you can make it a holiday that everyone, including your loved one, will enjoy.
Seeing Stress In a New Light
Changing your attitude towards stress can make a big difference in how you react to it, and the effects it has on your mind and body.
Celebrating You!
November is the month that, for nearly three decades, we have celebrated the nation’s family caregivers — that’s you! Here are some tips for how to embrace your role as a caregiver.
Listen Up!
For a caregiver, listening is a critically important skill that you need to develop, hone, and employ every day.
Coping With Global Crisis
Here are some strategies to help you reduce stress and maintain emotional well-being while experiencing a world of trouble.
Getting Over Bumps In The Road
Getting over a road bump requires a new approach to your current situation.
Embrace the Changes!
In a world where the only thing that keeps constant is change itself, coping with change requires cultivating a set of behaviors that help you stay strong as you navigate that change.