We Hear You!
Dear Caregivers,
Every caregiver faces unique challenges in their caregiving adventure, because every loved one is uniquely different and requires a customized suite of care. That’s why the team at Navigating Aging Needs (NAN), is continually listening to your feedback, and creating specialized content to meet your needs.
Based on your great input, we've created some new offerings on NANforCaregivers.com that include tips for dealing with sleep disturbances, suggestions for activities for people with hampered vision, and recommended local services that may be able to help you with a variety of tasks.
See below to learn more!
Activity Ideas for Loved Ones with Low Vision:
There are two main reasons your loved one may be having trouble with vision. First, everyone has changes in their vision as they get older. Secondly, our loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders (ADRD) may have changes in peripheral vision and depth perception. At some point they are likely to lack the ability to understand what they see or remember what a particular item is used for. Given these changes, customizing enjoyable activities for your loved one with low vision abilities might take some trial and error to find the right fit. Here are some strategies for adapting your loved one’s activities to cope with low vision.
Dealing with Sleep Disturbances:
People with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders often have problems sleeping or may experience changes in their sleep schedule. Scientists do not completely understand why these sleep disturbances occur, but as with changes in memory and behavior, the impact of the disease on the brain can result in changes in sleep. It is especially important to address changes in your loved one's sleep schedule since it is very likely to impact your sleep as well. Here’s how you can help.
Getting Help: Private Duty and Companion Care
“Private Duty Care” and “Companion Care” are services intended to help you and your loved one to safely get through day-to-day activities such as personal care, preparing meals, housecleaning, and providing companionship. These services can also offer a break for caregivers, giving them time to be on their own. Here is more information about these services, and a list of recommended local private duty and companion care companies.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.”
— Tia Walker
