Alzheimer's Disease: Communication Tips

Of the 32 counties we support in Colorado, 13 are located west of the Continental Divide and served by our phenomenal team in Grand Junction. Through mobile pantries and partnerships with more than 110 Hunger Relief Partners in this region, our team is able to meet the specific needs of these communities and bring food where it is needed most. We know that budgets can be stretched thin these days, so by leveraging the power of community and through programs like Everyday Eats for Older Adults, Food for Kids, mobile pantries, and more, Food Bank of the Rockies provides food to 1 in 9 people facing hunger in Colorado.Need a referral to your local food pantry? Do you want to apply for SNAP benefits? Want to learn more about our programs? Interested in volunteering or making a donation? We would love to hear from you!  To contact us, please call 970-464-1138 or 877-953-3937 (toll-free) or visit foodbankrockies.org.  Editors Note: This article was submitted by Food Bank of the Rockies. For more information, please call 303-371-9250.

As our loved ones age, its natural to notice some changes in their memory, thinking, and behavior. Forgetting where they placed their keys or occasionally mixing up names is often just part of growing older. However, theres a fine line between typical aging and the early symptoms of dementia. Recognizing this difference is crucial for getting help early and preserving quality of life.What you will learn:         The key differences between normal aging and early signs of dementia.         Seven critical symptoms of early dementia that shouldnt be overlooked.         How early detection can improve care planning and quality of life.         Ways in-home care supports seniors with dementia and eases family caregiving challenges.         Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia         Understanding whats considered normal aging is key. Age-related memory changes often involve forgetfulness that doesnt disrupt daily life. A senior might take longer to recall a word or forget why they walked into a room, but the information typically comes back. Theyre still able to manage household tasks, keep appointments, and make sound decisions.         In contrast, dementia is a progressive condition that interferes with the ability to function independently. It affects memory, communication, reasoning, and judgment, and eventually requires full-time care. 7 Key Dementia Signs You Shouldnt IgnoreHere are some critical signs of early dementia:1.      Frequent Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information and relying heavily on notes or others to remember things they used to manage on their own.2.      Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to follow a recipe, balance a checkbook, or operate appliances theyve used for years.3.      Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations: Difficulty expressing thoughts or understanding what others are saying, often pausing, repeating themselves, or struggling to name everyday objects.4.      Poor Judgment or Decision-Making: Giving away large sums of money, neglecting hygiene, or dressing inappropriately for the weather.5.      Confusion About Time or Place: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting how they got somewhere, or becoming confused about the date or season.6.      Changes in Mood or Personality: Unusual irritability, depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.7.      Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps: Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them again without help.How In-Home Care Can HelpCaring for a loved one showing signs of dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. Thats where in-home support from Always Best Care of Denver can make a meaningful difference. Our caregivers are trained to recognize the early symptoms of cognitive decline and keep families informed about changes. They can help with daily tasks, encourage mental stimulation, and provide companionship.Having a compassionate caregiver in the home gives families peace of mind, ensuring that your loved one is safe, supported, and able to maintain as much independence as possible.FAQQ: Whats the difference between normal aging and early dementia? A: Normal aging involves forgetfulness that doesnt disrupt daily life, while early dementia affects memory, communication, and judgment, impacting daily functioning.Q: How can I support a loved one with early signs of dementia?A: Seek professional evaluation early, and consider in-home care for support with daily tasks and companionship.Q: Is it possible to slow down dementia progression? A: While theres no cure, early detection and support can improve quality of life and slow down some symptoms.Schedule a Complimentary Consultation at Always Best Care of Denver!If youre concerned about memory changes in someone you care about, dont wait to take action. Contact Always Best Care of Denver at (303) 952-3060 for a care consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand your options and create a care plan tailored to your loved ones unique needs. Early support mattersand you dont have to navigate it alone.

Home should be a haven, but for someone living with dementia, it can quickly turn into a maze of confusion and hazards. At Always Best Care of Denver, we know that a few thoughtful tweaks-big or small-can make all the difference. So, how can we transform a regular home into a dementia-friendly home? Grab a cup of tea, and lets roll up our sleeves!What you will learn: The key reasons why home modifications for dementia are essential for safety, comfort, and independence. Simple, practical ways to adapt each room. Useful safety tips, technology aids, and supportive equipment that help prevent accidents and ease daily life for loved ones with dementia. Why Home Modifications for Dementia MatterDementia changes how people see, remember, and interact with their environment. Simple tasks become tricky, and familiar spaces can suddenly feel foreign. Smart home modifications for dementia can: Reduce falls and injuries. Boost independence. Ease anxiety and confusion. Prevent wandering and accidents. 3 Key Principles of a Dementia-Friendly HomeLight It Up Double the usual lighting levels; aging eyes need more light! Use daylight as much as possible; keep curtains open and windows clear. Add motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms for nighttime trips. Color and Contrast Use contrasting colors for walls, floors, and furniture to help with depth perception. Avoid busy patterns; they can confuse or even frighten someone with dementia. Try colored tape or labels for steps, switches, and taps. Declutter and Simplify Keep walkways clear; no tripping over shoes or stray rugs! Store daily-use items in easy-to-reach, labeled spots. Remove or lock away hazardous items like cleaning products, knives, and medications. Room-by-Room Home Modifications for DementiaKitchen Safety Tips Install stoves with auto shut-off features or remove stove knobs. Keep sharp objects and cleaning supplies locked away. Use clear labels on cupboards and drawers. Regularly clean out the fridge; no one wants a science experiment gone wrong! Bathroom Modifications Add grab rails and slip-resistant mats. Install a raised toilet seat and a color-contrasted toilet seat for easy spotting. Use lever taps and label hot and cold clearly. Remove electric blankets and hot water bottles. Bedroom Safety Place non-slip mats beside the bed (but make sure theyre not a trip hazard). Install nightlights or motion-sensor lights for late-night wandering. Remove mirrors or limit them. Living Areas Arrange furniture for easy navigation; think wide, open paths. Use photos of loved ones and familiar objects to create a sense of belonging. Keep commonly used items, like the TV remote or favorite blanket, within arms reach. Top 10 Dementia Safety Tips Lock away hazardous items (cleaners, knives, meds). Use contrasting colors for steps and switches. Install grab rails and slip-resistant flooring. Add motion-sensor lights throughout the house. Label doors, cupboards, and drawers. Remove or secure loose rugs and cords. Keep emergency numbers on every phone. Limit mirrors and reflective surfaces. Use door alarms to prevent wandering. Regularly assess the home for new hazards. Technology Aids and Equipment Door alarms and GPS trackers for wandering prevention. Smart home systems for automating lights and heating. Memory aids like whiteboards or digital reminders. Accessible phones with large buttons and photo dialing.          Frequently Asked Questions About Home Safety Modifications for People With Dementia         How do I start dementia proofing a home?         Begin with a walk-through, looking for trip hazards, poor lighting, and unsecured dangerous items. Tackle the most urgent risks first, then work room by room.         Whats the best lighting for dementia patients at home?         Bright, even lighting is key! Use natural daylight when possible and add motion-sensor lights in dark areas. Avoid glare and harsh shadows.         How can I prevent wandering at home?         Install door alarms, use locks on exit doors, and consider GPS devices. Keep doors to unsafe areas locked, but allow easy access to safe spaces.         Are labels and signage really helpful?         Absolutely! Clear, simple labels (words or pictures) on doors, cupboards, and drawers help jog memory and reduce frustration.         What should I avoid in a dementia-friendly home?         Busy patterns, clutter, loose rugs, and anything sharp or toxic. Also, steer clear of complicated gadgets and confusing layouts.Transform Your Home Into a Safe Haven | Start Your Dementia-Friendly Makeover Today!Making home modifications for dementia isnt just about safety-its about helping our loved ones feel confident, comfortable, and cared for. At Always Best Care of Denver, we believe a few thoughtful changes can turn a house back into a home. Remember, its not about perfection; its about progress. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create a dementia-friendly home? Were right here with you every step of the way. Contact Always Best Care of Denver at (303) 952-3060 to learn more and schedule your free consultation.