Ask NAN blog
Teachings and tips for family caregivers navigating the needs of their aging loved one.
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Is Alzheimer’s Hereditary?
A so-called “family history” is not always associated with developing the disease — it is likely a combination of genetic, other medical, and lifestyle risk factors.
Common Challenges in Eating and Appetite and How to Address Them
Here are a nutritionist’s favorite tips that caregivers can use to manage the common challenges in their loved one’s appetite and eating habits.
The Impact of Alzheimer’s Disease on Appetite, Taste and Eating Habits
Alzheimer's disease can impact various aspects of a person's health, including changes in appetite and taste. Here’s an overview of what to expect.
The Importance of Water
Lack of water, called dehydration, can be quite dangerous and can lead to decrease blood volume, which lowers the amount of blood sent to the major organs of the body, especially the kidneys. Therefor it is especially important for an older adult to keep up his or her fluid intake. Here’s how to do it.
Getting to Know Your Caregiving “Village”
Identifying and engaging with a medical team that you can count on can make a big difference for you and your loved one. Here is an overview of the types of healthcare professionals you may want to seek out as part of your “caregiving village”.
Testing for Alzheimer’s Genes
There is scientific evidence that in some cases, genes can play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The most common gene that increases the risk of Alzheimer’s is known as “APOE”. Here’s a list of commercial companies that test for the presence of the gene.
Is It Safe To Leave My Loved One Alone in the House?
One of the biggest responsibilities that comes with caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease is keeping them safe. This can be challenging as Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, and so it can be hard to know when your loved one’s capabilities have declined to the point that you can no longer leave them safely alone by themselves. Here are some signs that indicate it is no longer safe to leave your loved one alone in the house.
Managing Incontinence
Many caregivers say that coping with incontinence is one of the most challenging parts of their duties. But with patience, compassion, and the latest tools, you can manage this challenge while preserving your loved one’s privacy and dignity.
Coping with Auditory or Visual Hallucinations
Hallucinations can be caused by diseases like Alzheimer's, which change the way the brain interprets what is seen or heard. Hallucinations can be very convincing, with the result that our loved ones have a false understanding of what they are seeing or hearing. Here’s how to cope.
Sleep Disturbance in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders
People with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (ADRD) often have problems with 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 disease on the brain can result in changes in sleep.
Staying Safe in the Sunshine
When you live in a place as beautiful as Florida, being outdoors is appealing. It is the Sunshine state after all. But as usual…too much of a good thing can be bad for us. And the sun is no exception. The risk of developing skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure over the years.
Get Ready: Hurricane Preparedness
The months of June, July and August mean months of heat, humidity -- and hurricanes! -- and present potential risks. But as your mother always said, “An ounce of prevention…”
Beating the Heat
As summer temperatures climb into the 90s, older people are in danger of conditions caused by extreme heat, such as dehydration and hyperthermia, which can lead to heat exhaustion and its most serious form, heat stroke.
How to Stay Hydrated
About 60% of your body is made up of water. All systems in your body rely on water to function properly. Not having enough water in your body can reduce your energy and make you feel tired and dizzy, and can harm your kidney function. Here’s how to stay hydrated.
Nine Simple Habits That Can Boost Your Brain Power
Research suggests that there are things that you and your loved one can do to boost your brainpower. This includes regular exercise, social interaction, and a healthy diet.
Update on Alzheimer’s Treatment Options in 2022
For decades the main options for “treatment” for Alzheimer’s disease have been limited. But several new potentially beneficial options are emerging.
Security for Your Loved One... and YOU!
A critical part of your loved one's health and safety is wearing a wristband with important medical information that can alert others in the event that you are not there.
Medication Management Tips for Caregivers
Helping your loved one take their medicine correctly is one of the most important tasks of a caregiver. Here are some tips on how to stay on track.
Steps for Safe and Effective Medication Management
Following a program of taking medicines is critical to managing your loved one’s care. Here are some rules of the road for getting the most out of medications and staying safe.
Hospitalization Happens: Now What?
Being admitted to the hospital can be a stressful and confusing experience for both you and your loved one. Here are some key tips to employ before, during, and after a hospital stay.
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