From the desk of Rosemary Laird, MD
Founder of Navigating Aging Needs (NAN), LLC
Nature's Bounty!
I love summer when it gets into full swing. Sure, it is occasionally very hot, and there are occasionally fierce storms, but the sun and water that power these weather phenomena also have the wonderful effect of making plants explode in growth at this time of year. The local farmers' markets burst with flavors and tastes of all kinds, from plump tomatoes to crunchy carrots to juicy watermelon. Every bite reminds me of the amazing natural processes that, almost miraculously, have evolved the ability to turn sunlight and water into food for us to eat.
Going for the Gold!
Every Olympic season, I marvel at the sheer majesty and perfection of the human body as the athletes run, swim, and hurdle through space during the Games. The feats of athleticism, for which these competitors have trained all their lives, is truly inspirational.
Hope on the Horizon!
This week I’m attending the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Philadelphia, and gatherings like these always infuse me with hope. Here I meet with fellow scientists, clinicians, and therapeutic companies who are all intent on the same goal: To find the cure for Alzheimer's, care for those living with the disease, and support their caregivers.
You Deserve a Break!
In these somewhat crazy times of oppressive heat, violence in the news, and overall uncertainty about the future, the word “respite” comes to my mind.
Here Come the Dog Days!
Much of Florida, as well as the rest of the U.S., is going through an intense heat wave. June 2024 was the warmest month on record in the nation, and there are currently record temperatures across the country. Here in Florida, we are used to hot days, but this week we are undergoing excessive heat warnings as well, with the heat index rising above 100 in many counties.
The Real Meaning of Independence Day
Independence Day means different things to different people: Some see it as a chance to start off the summer with a cookout and family and friends. Others celebrate by contemplating the founding of the nation, and the joys and responsibilities of having “freedom.”
Preventing Alzheimer's
If you are a caregiver of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s, you may no doubt be wondering if you are susceptible to the disease yourself as well — especially if you and your loved one are genetically related. It’s true that recent studies have shown a genetic connection between inheriting some forms of genes and getting Alzheimer’s, but the number of people having this genetic profile is very small — less than 2% of the U.S. population. But even "having the gene" for Alzheimer's is not a guarantee an individual will develop the disease.
Celebrate Juneteenth!
This week we celebrate Juneteenth, one of the oldest international commemorations of the ending of slavery, and the newest Federal Holiday. The celebration of the holiday “is a story of pride, resilience and determination that will always be of historical and spiritual importance – as it serves us well to understand that together, we can overcome all obstacles in our path.” Certainly overcoming obstacles is a core part of being a caregiver. I hope you can take a moment on this holiday to reflect on your critical role in the wellbeing of your loved one, family, and community.
It’s Hot Out There!
Summer hasn’t even begun yet, and parts of the world are engulfed in sweltering, even dangerous, heat. So far it looks like Florida won’t heat up much more than usual during this current heat wave, but it’s a good reminder of the need to make preparations and make sure you and your loved one are safe during our hot summer months. Here is some key advice on staying safe as the sun bears down on us this summer.
Protect Yourself!
Knowing that you have in place a blanket of protection for you and your loved one can lead to an intense feeling of security, calm, and even bliss, perhaps. There is nothing that does more for the reduction of stress in your life than knowing you have the right plans and documentation in place, so that if a storm should hit in your and your loved one’s life, you already have the systems you need at the ready, to protect you from harm.
Genes and Alzheimer’s
Despite many scientific advances in what we know about Alzheimer's disease and how it damages the brain, the reasons why some people develop it, while others are spared, is less clear. The observation that higher rates of developing Alzheimer's disease occurs in certain ethnicities and within some families has led to an understanding about the impact of genetic factors. Now a recent study is adding to our knowledge about how specific genes contribute to the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
No Place Like Home
There is “no place like home,” as the saying goes. As a Caregiver of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, considering your own home and your loved one’s living situation is an ongoing challenge. That’s because unfortunately, Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, and so the “home” needs of you and your loved one will be in flux over time.
Fearless Finance
For many people, mid-April’s “tax time” arrives with anxiety and confusion — and that can lead to increased levels of stress. According to the American Psychological Association, concerns about money issues consistently rank among the top stressors in their annual “Stress in America” report. As a family caregiver you aren't immune from this type of stress, or taxes.
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.