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Addressing the complexities of a dementia diagnosis can be a challenging task, especially when communicating this to a younger audience. A dementia diagnosis impacts everyone in the family, including the youngest members. Children are keen observers and will likely notice changes in their loved one. Without understanding, these changes may leave them feeling confused, scared, or even responsible. Therefore, understanding the basics about dementia and communicating it in an age-appropriate way is critical for them to process what is happening.
Dementia: What it is
Dementia is a term that represents several conditions that affect brain functions such as memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform everyday activities. This group of symptoms impacts cognitive function significantly and is persistent enough to interfere with daily life and independence. Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty in thinking or problem-solving, challenges with communication, and notable changes in mood, personality, or behavior.
Types of Dementia
There are various types of dementia, each with unique symptoms and progression patterns. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common, contributing to 60-80% of cases. Vascular dementia often occurs after a stroke. While these are the most recognized forms, there are many other types like Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal disorders, and mixed dementia.
How it Affects Seniors
While dementia is not a normal part of aging, it’s more prevalent in seniors. It can significantly alter their behavior, personality, and ability to perform daily tasks. This often leads to them needing assistance in their day-to-day life.
The Child’s Perspective: Understanding Their Worldview
Explaining dementia to children requires empathy and understanding of their world. Kids’ comprehension of health, illness, and aging varies widely based on their age and maturity level. Thus, when crafting your explanation, it’s essential to consider their cognitive development stage and adjust your language and explanations accordingly.
Talking About Dementia: Preparing the Conversation
Approaching the subject of dementia should be well-thought-out. Choose a calm and quiet time when the child won’t be distracted or rushed. This will give you both the space to navigate the conversation and handle the emotions that might arise.
Breaking the News
Introduce the topic gently and gradually. You might start by asking what they’ve noticed about their loved one or if they’ve wondered why they’re behaving differently.
Explaining in Simple Terms
Explain dementia in straightforward, age-appropriate language. For younger children, you might explain that their loved one’s brain is getting a little mixed up or isn’t working as well as it used to.
The Role of Metaphors
Metaphors can be powerful tools to help children grasp complex concepts. For instance, you might compare the brain to a machine that’s not working properly or a light bulb that’s flickering.
Help the child understand that it’s okay to feel a wide range of emotions, whether that’s sadness, confusion, anger, or fear. These are normal reactions to significant changes.
Answering Questions
Children are naturally curious and will likely have many questions. Answer their inquiries honestly, yet gently, using language they can comprehend.
Ongoing Conversation
The explanation of dementia is not a one-time talk; it’s an ongoing conversation. The dialogue will evolve as the loved one’s condition progresses and the child’s understanding deepens.
Activities for Understanding
There are numerous children’s books, videos, and online resources specifically designed to help children understand dementia.
Interactive Activities
Involve the child in memory games or role-playing exercises to simulate memory loss and promote empathy. This can help them understand what their loved one is going through.
Providing Emotional Support
Ensure you’re there for the child emotionally. Let them express their feelings, reassure them about their concerns, and offer a comforting presence during this challenging time.
Listen Actively
Active listening goes a long way. Validate their thoughts, fears, and feelings, showing them that it’s okay to share their inner emotions.
Reassure and Comfort
Reassure the child that, despite the changes, their loved one still cares deeply for them.
Explaining Changes
Inform the child that the senior might behave differently, show confusion, or forget things more often.
Physical Changes
Physical changes might occur in the loved one, such as trouble walking or talking. Make sure to prepare the child for these possible changes.
Changes in Roles
The family dynamics might change as a result of the loved one’s diagnosis. Explaining this shift to the child will help them understand why these changes are necessary.
Building a Supportive Environment
A sense of routine can provide a semblance of security and normalcy for the child during this uncertain time.
Open Communication
Foster an environment of open communication. Encourage the child to ask questions, share their feelings, and express their concerns.
Inclusion in Care
Include the child in caregiving activities in ways that are age-appropriate and comfortable for them.
Tips for Continued Conversations
Keep the child updated about the condition of their loved one. This will prepare them for the ongoing changes and help them understand the progression of the disease.
Honesty and Patience
Honesty is paramount, but it needs to be balanced with patience. Explain that dementia is a medical condition, not a personal choice or a reflection on their relationship.
Promoting Empathy
Help the child to understand how their loved one might be feeling. This encourages empathy and patience.
Additional Resources
There are many age-appropriate books available that address dementia, which can be a helpful resource.
Websites
Several websites offer valuable information on understanding and coping with dementia.
Support Groups
Support groups can offer a sense of community and understanding, especially for older children and teens.
Involving Professionals
Sometimes, involving professionals like therapists or counselors can be beneficial in helping children process their feelings and better understand the situation.
Dementia: A Family Affair
Lastly, remember to reinforce that dementia is a family affair. Everyone’s feelings, experiences, and contributions matter, and it’s okay to have good days and bad days.
Helping children understand a senior loved one’s dementia diagnosis is a challenging yet vital task. It’s an ongoing process, filled with numerous conversations and learning opportunities. The most important thing is to provide a supportive, open, and loving environment for the child as they navigate this difficult journey. It’s also completely acceptable, and often beneficial, to seek help from professionals or use various resources to guide you along the way.
We hope our guide on explaining a senior loved one’s dementia diagnosis to children has been helpful. At Integracare, we extend our commitment to exceptional care across our 18 communities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, offering assisted living, memory care, independent living, and short-term/respite care with the same high standards. If you’d like to learn more about any of our communities, please reach out to us. We’re here to support you and your family throughout this journey.
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, its a beautiful reminder that autumn is upon us. While the fall season brings cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, it also presents unique challenges, especially for seniors. With slippery leaves, shorter days, and the onset of colder weather, its crucial to take steps to ensure your home is as safe as possible. Here are some essential fall prevention safety tips to help create a secure home environment this autumn.1. Keep Walkways Clear of Leaves and DebrisFallen leaves can be beautiful, but when they accumulate on walkways, they can become slippery, especially when wet. Regularly rake and clear paths, driveways, and steps to prevent slips and falls.2. Improve Outdoor LightingAs daylight hours shorten, good lighting becomes more important than ever. Make sure outdoor lights are functioning properly and consider adding motion-sensor lights around entrances and walkways. This not only helps prevent falls but also enhances security around your home.3. Install Grab Bars and HandrailsBathrooms and staircases are common areas where falls occur. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along stairs can provide the extra support needed to prevent accidents. Ensure these are securely attached and regularly check them for stability.4. Use Non-Slip Mats and RugsSlippery floors can be hazardous, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Place non-slip mats in these areas and secure rugs with non-slip pads to prevent them from sliding. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of falls.5. Declutter and OrganizeCluttered spaces can be a tripping hazard. Take the time to declutter your home, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. Ensure that cords, shoes, and other obstacles are stored away properly. A tidy home is not only more comfortable but also safer.6. Schedule a Heating System CheckAs temperatures drop, you'll likely be using your heating system more frequently. Before the cold fully sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it's working safely and efficiently. A well-maintained system can prevent accidents and keep your home warm throughout the fall and winter.7. Check Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsWith the increased use of heating systems, its important to ensure that your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Test them monthly, replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading to newer models if your devices are outdated.8. Consider a Free Senior Home Safety AssessmentFor seniors, creating a safe home environment is essential. TruBlue offers a Free Senior Home Safety Assessment to help identify potential hazards and recommend modifications to enhance safety. Our certified Senior Safety Specialists can provide personalized solutions that cater to the unique needs of seniors, allowing them to age in place safely.Fall is a season of change, and its the perfect time to take proactive steps to ensure your home is safe and secure. By following these fall prevention tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and create a more comfortable living environment. Whether its clearing walkways, improving lighting, or installing safety features like grab bars, each small action can make a big difference.At TruBlue, were committed to helping you maintain a safe and comfortable home. Contact us today to schedule your Free Senior Home Safety Assessment and take the first step towards a safer autumn. Together, we can ensure that you or your loved ones can enjoy the beauty of the season without worry.
Navigating Medicare: A Comprehensive Information Guide with MediConnectAre you turning 65 soon or approaching eligibility for Medicare? Understanding your healthcare options is crucial for ensuring you receive the coverage you need. With Medicare being a cornerstone of healthcare for millions of Americans, its essential to familiarize yourself with its information. At MediConnect, our Medicare advisory firm, were here to help you find the plan that works best for you.What is Medicare?Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily designed for people who are 65 or older. However, it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease. It consists of different parts, each providing coverage for specific services:1. Medicare Part A: Hospital insurance that covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.2. Medicare Part B: Medical insurance that covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some home health care.3. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): A private insurance alternative to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), often including prescription drug coverage and additional benefits like vision, dental, and wellness programs.4. Medicare Part D: Prescription drug coverage available through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.Understanding EnrollmentEnrolling in Medicare can be a straightforward process if you understand the information for your options and the timing of key decisions: Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Typically, this is a seven-month period that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after the month you turn 65. General Enrollment Period (GEP): If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period, you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, late enrollment may result in penalties. Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Some individuals may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to specific life events, such as moving, losing employer coverage, or qualifying for additional assistance programs.Making Informed Choices with MediConnectChoosing the right Medicare coverage depends on various factors, including your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. At MediConnect, our Medicare advisory firm, we take the information you give us to offer personalized guidance and expertise. Helping you make informed decisions: Coverage Needs: Our team will work with you to assess your healthcare needs, including prescription medications, doctor visits, and any specialized care requirements. Costs: Well help you understand the premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance associated with each Medicare option to determine the total cost of coverage. Provider Networks: Well explain the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, helping you choose the option that aligns with your provider preferences. Prescription Drug Coverage: Our experts will evaluate your prescription drug needs and compare Part D plans to find the one that best covers your medications at the lowest cost.Additional ResourcesNavigating the complexities of Medicare may seem daunting, but youre not alone. Here are some resources to give you additional information along the way: Medicare.gov: The official Medicare website offers comprehensive information, including plan comparisons, enrollment guidance, and eligibility criteria. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs): These programs provide free, personalized Medicare counseling and assistance to help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Medicare Plan Finder: Use this tool on Medicare.gov to compare Medicare Advantage plans, Part D prescription drug plans, and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policies available in your area.As you approach Medicare eligibility, remember that MediConnect is here to support you every step of the way. Our Medicare advisory firm is dedicated to helping you find the coverage that meets your unique needs and preferences.By understanding the various parts of Medicare, enrollment periods, and factors to consider when choosing a plan, you can make confident decisions about your healthcare coverage. Let us guide you through the process and ensure you have the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive Medicare coverage tailored to your individual requirements.
The Role of a Geriatric Care ManagerThe share of the United States population over the age of 65 has risen to 16%, and it is expected to climb further to 23% by 2060. People are living longer, and that means that people also have more specialized health care needs.Aging life care calls for a different kind of attention, as various conditions and syndromes begin to present themselves. Depending on which conditions those are, the situation can get complicated pretty quickly. In some cases, it might be worthwhile to consider hiring a geriatric care manager.As we and our loved ones age, we usually end up needing support from the people around us to make sure our needs are met. Family members in particular tend to shoulder this responsibility. But there are many reasons that might make it difficult to have a good support network in place. The most common reason is that family caregivers simply live too far away to provide reliable senior care management.In this context, geriatric care managers can be thought of as "professional relatives." If a family member is not able to provide long term care, geriatric care managers can help provide any and all services related to elder care. They are usually licenced nurses or social workers who are trained in aging life care, and they organize care plans and advocate for their patients needs.If you hire a geriatric care manager, you will be able to count on them to navigate the complexities of the health care system. It can also be helpful to have someone who can make decisions from a neutral point of view, as family caregivers sometimes have to make difficult decisions that are deeply personal.The primary responsibilities of a geriatric care manager are:Coordinating elder care between multiple service providersDeveloping both short and long term care plansHelping manage emotional concerns, stress, and anxietiesHelping manage transitional careHiring additional caregivers as necessaryMake home visits and evaluate living conditionsOngoing assessment of aging life care needsAll of this helps take the pressure off family members and ensures that geriatric care management is always under control.When to Seek Support With an Aging Life Care ExpertThere are many cases in which families are perfectly capable of managing aging life care for someone they love. But it can be challenging to know when you might be taking on more than you can reasonably expect to handle. As discussed above, one of the most obvious challenges is that family members do not live near the person who needs their care. But other complications are not as straightforward.You should consider hiring a geriatric care manager when:You need help with a complex issue. Lots of medical conditions can lead to the kinds of behaviors that should really be handled by aging life care professionals. Issues related to dementia, verbal abuse, or physical violence are among these.Your loved one will not talk to you about their health. Whether it is out of concern for privacy, a soured relationship, or an inability to describe what they are experiencing, older adults sometimes do not let relatives help them. A geriatric care manager gives them someone they feel comfortable talking to about their health. You are having trouble communicating with service providers. Geriatric care managers have a better understanding of where other aging life care professionals are coming from, so if you have run into a wall in negotiations or are not able to get the information you are looking for, your care manager is in a position to communicate more effectively.You do not know what to do. Caring for a loved one can be complicated for reasons beyond their health. We always want the best for them, but sometimes there are multiple pathways and it is not clear which one will be best. Geriatric care managers can provide their objective point of view to help your loved one receive the senior care that is right for themFinding Geriatric Care ManagersA geriatric care manager does not have to hold a state level license. But because many of them come from fields in health care, they elect to maintain their credentials. Care managers who come from social work often have to have active licensure in order to practice in their state.So on the one hand, a lack of certification or licensure is not necessarily a deal breaker. On the other hand, it is important that they can demonstrate their experience as aging life care professionals. If you are hiring a geriatric care manager, be sure to ask about the following:Do they have direct experience with managing issues specific to your loved one? This is especially important to cover in cases of severe injury or cognitive decline.Do they have experience with crisis care management? If your loved one is prone to seizures or is at high risk for falls or heart attacks, aging life care professionals need to know how to handle this type of emergency situation. Also ask them if they are available to respond around the clock, or if they have set hours.How will they communicate information to you? It might seem like a tedious question, but being on the same page about communication methods and styles can save everyone a lot of frustration and confusion.Can they provide references? It can be hard to really understand who you are working with based on their resume alone. Talking to people who know them well is a good way to corroborate your first impressions.How are their costs and fees structured? Senior care can be expensive it is typically not covered under Medicare or most other insurance plans so it is important to understand how much things will cost up front. Geriatric care managers charge by the hour, typically within a range of $75200 per hour.When families turn to aging life care professionals for care management services, they need to know as much as possible about the roles and responsibilities of the people they are bringing into the fold. Geriatric care managers help families navigate the complexities of elder care and relieve them of the stress and anxiety that so often comes along with it. They are experienced in working with a variety of national and local resources, care providers, and care services to ensure the highest quality of life possible.Give me a call for a FREE 20 minute consultation at 714-403-7040. source: Keystone Health, 2024. https://keystone.health/geriatric-care-manager-role-responsibilities#table-of-contents
Butler's picturesque setting is the perfect surrounding to Newhaven Court at Clearview's charming grounds. Our Senior Living community offers 24/7 Personal Care and Memory Care.Live, love and laugh with us at Newhaven Court at Clearview!Guests are welcomed with a reception area furnished with our own grand piano! There are inviting spaces for friends and family to gather, like our sunroom with pastel accents and modern hardwood floors, our library with elegant features including a cozy fireplace, and our finch aviary where residents love to bird watch.Newhaven Court at Clearview is a two-story community in a beautiful countryside setting.Spacious private residences available furnished or unfurnishedCasual sitting room with aviaryBeautiful private dining room for family celebrationsMovie theaterLibrary featuring a cozy fireplaceCountry kitchen and activities loungeNeighborhood balconies and outdoor spacesBreezy porch and outdoor patiosFull service salonNewhaven Court at Clearview will provide 24/7 total personal care to meet all our residents individual needs.24-hour personal care staffAssistance with personal care needs (bathing, dressing, grooming)Fun-filled calendar of social, religious, recreational and educational programsWeekly housekeeping and laundry serviceThree nutritious meals prepared dailyMany enhanced services are also available to meet your needs.Doctor appointment schedulingPrivate transportation for doctor appointments/personal needs availableTherapy services (physical, occupational, speech)Dry cleaningGuest meals and private party cateringMore services available by request!Our respite care provides all the comforts of home with expert therapists on staff.Nutritious meals to continue your rise to recoveryMedication management, training and assistanceAssistance with personal care needs like bathing, dressing and groomingLife skills exercises and rehabilitation with occupational therapyStrengthening during physical therapyCognitive skills training with speech therapyA team of trained experts to help prepare you for your return homeYoure welcome to a trial stay at Newhaven Court at Clearview.Wondering what its like to live at Newhaven Court at Clearview? Schedule a short-term trial stay and youll enjoy all the same amenities, resources, and activities as our long-term residents.Spacious private residences available furnished or unfurnished24-hour caregiver staff for support when neededFun-filled calendar of social, religious, recreational and educational programsFull service salonEmergency communication system inside each private residenceand so much more!
Tucked away in Pittsburgh's South Hills, The Pines of Mount Lebanon provides the perfect environment for senior living. Our community offers 24/7 Personal Care and Memory Care.The Pines of Mount Lebanon is a modern senior living community packed with exclusive amenities.- Spacious private residences available furnished or unfurnished- Sunny sitting area with aviary- Full service salon and wellness center- Movie theater for the big game- Activities lounge with cathedral ceilings- Restaurant style dining room- Floral gardens and patiosOur beautiful outdoor patio and landscaped courtyard greet our residents upon entering this secluded, private community. Within our walls the exclusive experience continues with dozens of features including beautiful dining rooms, a full service beauty salon, a health and wellness center, card club area, cozy fireplace and movie theater.RESPITE CARE PROGRAMOur respite care provides all the comforts of home with expert therapists on staff.- Nutritious meals to continue your rise to recovery- Medication management, training and assistance- Assistance with personal care needs like bathing, dressing and grooming- Life skills exercises and rehabilitation with occupational therapy- Strengthening during physical therapy- Cognitive skills training with speech therapy- A team of trained experts to help prepare you for your return homeSHORT-TERM TRIAL STAYSYoure welcome to a trial stay at The Pines of Mount Lebanon.Wondering what its like to live at The Pines of Mount Lebanon? Schedule a short-term trial stay and youll enjoy all the same amenities, resources, and activities as our long-term residents.- Spacious private residences available furnished or unfurnished- 24-hour caregiver staff for support when needed- Fun-filled calendar of social, religious, recreational and educational programs- Full service salon and wellness center- and so much more!
Butler's picturesque setting is the perfect surrounding to Newhaven Court at Clearview's charming grounds. Our Senior Living community offers 24/7 Personal Care and Memory Care.Live, love and laugh with us at Newhaven Court at Clearview!Guests are welcomed with a reception area furnished with our own grand piano! There are inviting spaces for friends and family to gather, like our sunroom with pastel accents and modern hardwood floors, our library with elegant features including a cozy fireplace, and our finch aviary where residents love to bird watch.The Memory Care Program at Newhaven Court at Clearview, for your loved one.Our memory care program offers a safe, warm, inviting, and dignified environment for seniors living with memory impairments. Our expert staff provides care and activities conducive to emotional, spiritual, and social satisfaction. Your loved one will receive compassionate care in a relaxing environment complete with beautiful landscaping and cozy areas for enjoying with family and friends.Our philosophy is to create an environment that facilitates a sense of belonging.Provide opportunities for meaningful activities that improve quality of lifeFocus on remaining skills and abilities, enhancing them where possibleSupport positive behaviors and reduce risk of incidents from challenging behaviorOffer experiences for both verbal and non-verbal communicationProvide opportunities for education and support for family members through our Life Stories Memory Care Support GroupsInvigorate with inviting, secure courtyards where residents can enjoy fresh air and gardening