Ask NAN blog
Teachings and tips for family caregivers navigating the needs of their aging loved one.
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Recuerdo lo importante: Cómo apoyar a un ser querido que se niega a aceptar su diagnóstico
Dado que las primeras etapas de la demencia se caracterizan por los olvidos y la confusión, no es de extrañar que un ser querido parezca no comprender la enfermedad que padece; de hecho, algunos la niegan rotundamente. A continuación, encontrará información para comprender mejor esta difícil situación y consejos sobre cómo brindar el mejor apoyo a su ser querido.
Actividades para la agitación: en la fase avanzada (grave) de la demencia de Alzheimer
En las etapas avanzadas del alzhéimer, es posible que observe señales como una mayor inquietud, gritos, caminar de un lado a otro, agresividad o cambios bruscos de humor, así como indicios menos evidentes, como tirar de las sábanas o de la ropa. Cualquiera de estas señales puede ser motivo de preocupación; por ello, aquí le presentamos algunas actividades relajantes que puede poner en práctica para ayudar a reducir el malestar de su ser querido.
Actividades para la agitación: en la fase intermedia (moderada) de la demencia de Alzheimer
La agitación puede resultar angustiante tanto para su ser querido como para usted. Los síntomas incluyen inquietud, irritabilidad e incluso arrebatos verbales. Realizar actividades adecuadas puede ayudar a reducir la angustia y devolverle una sensación de bienestar a su ser querido. A continuación, le indicamos cómo afrontar esta situación.
Estrategias para el éxito: Consejos para la Memoria
Aquí tiene algunas estrategias para ayudar a mejorar la memoria de su ser querido.
Consejos para Cuando su Ser Querido no Reconoce la Casa
Es posible que su ser querido no reconozca la casa donde ha vivido durante muchos años, o tal vez se haya mudado recientemente a su hogar o a un centro de asistencia. En cualquiera de los casos, puede resultar angustiante si empieza a pedir «ir a casa». A continuación, le ofrecemos algunas pautas para afrontar esta situación.
Enfermedad de Alzheimer y Cuido al Final de la Vida
Como cuidador de una persona con Alzheimer, le ha tocado vivir el «largo adiós»: ver cómo su ser querido se va perdiendo poco a poco a medida que su mente atraviesa un deterioro implacable. Una vez que la enfermedad avanza hacia la etapa grave o avanzada, el deterioro físico cobra protagonismo y reduce aún más las capacidades de su ser querido. En esta fase, su papel es más importante que nunca, ya que debe asegurarse de que el fallecimiento de su ser querido esté libre de dolor y de sufrimientos excesivos.
Want to Have a Good Day? Schedule It!
When activities occur at about the same time each day, your loved one will often feel an enhanced sense of comfort and security. Keeping a daily schedule can be helpful for family caregivers, too. Here’s how to do it.
Introduction to Brain Health Supplements
Before you consider taking a vitamin supplement or a brain-boosting product, you should consider there are three important things: using evidence-based medicine, weighing the benefits vs. risks, and what experts say about the supplement. Here’s an introduction.
Brain Supplements
Many commonly used supplements claim to have benefits for the brain. Here is what is often claimed, what the science actually shows, and how to think about using these products wisely.
Popular Brain Boosters
Supplements known as “brain boosters” are often marketed as memory or brain enhancers. While the claims may sound compelling, current scientific evidence does not support their routine use for brain health or Alzheimer’s disease. Here’s an overview.
Devices for Medication Management
A variety of medication management tools and automated dispensing systems are available to help support safety, independence, and peace of mind for both individuals living with cognitive impairment and the family caregivers who assist them.
Activities for Agitation In Late-Stage (Severe) Alzheimer’s Dementia
In the late stages of Alzheimer’s you might notice signs such as increased restlessness, shouting, pacing, aggression or rapid mood swings, or less obvious clues such as tugging at sheets or clothes. Any one of these signs can be of concern, and here are some calming activities you can implement to help minimize your loved one’s distress.
Activities for Agitation for Early-Stage (Mild) Alzheimer’s Dementia
Agitation is a common symptom of dementia: In the early stages, you might notice signs such as increased irritability, unexplained anxiety, restlessness, and rapid mood swings. Here’s guide to activities that can help reduce distress and restore a sense of comfort for your loved one.
Activities for Agitation for Middle-Stage (Moderate) Alzheimer’s Dementia
Agitation can be distressing for your loved one and for you. Symptoms include restlessness, irritability, and even verbal outbursts. Engaging in appropriate activities can help reduce distress and restore a sense of comfort for your loved one. Here’s how to cope.
15 Things to Know About the Two New Alzheimer’s Drugs
Patients suffering from Alzheimer’s now potentially have access to two medications that may be able to modestly slow the progression of the disease — at least for some. Here’s an overview and guide.
Strategies for Good Nutrition: When Finger Foods Should be on the Menu
As a caregiver you may feel added pressure to ensure your loved one gets the nutrition they need. There are times when finger foods are just the ticket, and allow a loved one to continue eating independently. Here’s a guide.
Supporting a Loved One in Denial of Their Diagnosis
Given that the early stages of dementia are marked by forgetfulness and confusion, it’s no wonder a loved one may not seem to understand the illness they have. And some outright deny it. Here’s how to best support your loved one and information to help you understand this challenging situation.
Challenging Behaviors: Skin Picking
The compulsive behavior of repetitively touching, scratching, or picking at the skin is commonly seen in middle or late-stage dementia. Here are some strategies that may help reduce or mitigate its potentially dangerous impacts.
Conflict Resolution
Conflict resolution among family members is essential because when family dynamics are strained, it can hinder the effectiveness of caregiving and support. The goal of resolving conflict is to foster understanding, empathy, and cooperation, ultimately benefiting everyone involved. Here is an overview and tips for achieving harmony.
The Benefits of a Daily Routine
A consistent daily routine provides structure and comfort for people suffering from dementia and their caregivers. Plan to continually explore, experiment, and adjust the activities based on the mood and the abilities of your loved one with dementia. Here’s an overview and sample daily schedule.
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