Tips for Long-Distance Grandparents

2024 was a productive year for Alzheimers disease and dementia research, including advancements in diagnosis, treatment and risk management. Here are five significant discoveries from this year:U.S. FDA approves third new drug that slows the course of Alzheimers diseaseIn July 2024, people living with early Alzheimers and organizations such as the Alzheimers Association celebrated FDA approval of Kisunla, the third approval since 2021 of a treatment that slows progression and changes the underlying course of the disease.Alzheimers Association president and CEO, Dr. Joanne Pike said, This is real progress. [This FDA] approval allows people more options and greater opportunity to have more time. Having multiple treatment options is the kind of advancement weve all been waiting for.In this new era of treatment, there is an urgent need to better understand how new and future Alzheimers therapies work in real-world settings. That way, we can better understand their long-term health and safety outcomes in everyday settings. The Alzheimers Network for Treatment and Diagnostics (ALZ-NET) is a first-of-its-kind Alzheimers network dedicated to tracking real-world diagnostic and treatment outcomes. ALZ-NET also provides ongoing education and resources for clinicians, patients and families, helping them stay informed about the latest developments in Alzheimer's research and care.Blood tests for Alzheimers could improve accuracy of diagnosis and speed access to treatmentHighly accurate blood tests for Alzheimers are moving closer to broader use in physicians offices. Research reported this year suggests they may highly improve the accuracy of diagnosis and provide a quicker path to research participation and treatment.Dementia is often underdiagnosed and if it is diagnosed by a clinician, many people are unaware or uninformed of their diagnosis. Blood tests for Alzheimers are demonstrating in research that they could significantly improve a clinicians accuracy and confidence, provide greater accessibility and a reason for more communication.Blood tests that accurately and reliably detect Alzheimers-related brain changes signal a shift to simpler, more accurate and earlier detection and diagnosis, potentially superseding current methods that are expensive, invasive and not always accessible.In one study reported this year, a specific blood test was around 90% accurate in identifying Alzheimers in patients with cognitive symptoms seen in primary care and at specialized memory care clinics. Other research suggests that blood tests, once they are validated, could enhance recruitment for Alzheimers clinical trials and slash wait times for Alzheimers disease assessment. This research was funded in part by the Alzheimers Association.Individuals and caregivers want more support after a dementia diagnosisFollowing a dementia diagnosis, individuals and their care partners want and need help navigating the complex health care system. A 2024 Alzheimers Association survey revealed that 97% of dementia caregivers say they would find these services helpful. The survey found that a majority of dementia caregivers (70%) report that coordination of care is stressful.In July, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services launched an eight-year pilot program in dementia care management. The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model works with health systems and providers to deliver supportive services to people living with dementia. The primary aims of GUIDE are to (1) improve quality of life for people living with dementia, (2) reduce strain on their unpaid caregivers and (3) enable people living with dementia to remain in their homes and communities. The Alzheimers Association is participating in GUIDE. The new Dementia Care Navigation Service, powered by Rippl and the Alzheimers Association, is currently available in Illinois, Missouri, Texas and Washington. The service will roll out in more states in 2025 and beyond.Wildfire smoke raises risk of dementia more than other air pollutionResearch has found that exposure to air pollution is associated with increased risk of dementia. But a new study reported at AAIC 2024 suggests that breathing in wildfire smoke increases the risk of being diagnosed with dementia more than other types of air pollution. These results come from a decade-long study of more than 1.2 million people in southern California.The study says air pollution produced by wildfires now accounts for more than 70% of total particulate exposure on poor air quality days in California, and calls it a real problem. The findings were most pronounced among individuals from minoritized groups and in high poverty areas.Air pollution produced by wildfires might be more hazardous to health because: it is produced at higher temperatures, contains a greater concentration of toxic chemicals and, on average, is smaller in diameter than other sources. More research needs to be done to determine the exact mechanisms.Scientists define Alzheimers by the physical changes in the brainA group of scientists and clinicians convened by the Alzheimers Association published updated criteria for diagnosis and staging of Alzheimers based on the physical changes that happen in the brain due to the disease not solely the well-known outward symptoms, such as memory loss.Defining diseases by their biology has long been standard in many areas of medicine including cancer, heart disease and diabetes. The new publication defines Alzheimers as a biological process that begins with brain changes before people exhibit memory and thinking problems. The authors state that progression and expansion of these changes lead to the later appearance of symptoms, such as memory loss, disorientation, trouble with planning or organizing, and mental confusion.To learn more about Alzheimers disease and dementia research advances, plus available care, information and support resources and to join the cause or make a donation visit the Alzheimers Association at www.alz.org.  

As we move into 2025, many seniors are considering a significant lifestyle shift: downsizing. This isn't just about getting rid of things; it's about creating a life that's lighter, more meaningful, and filled with freedom. Let's dive into how you can keep the memories that matter while letting go of the excess stuff that's no longer serving you.Why Downsizing Makes Sense in 2025Reclaim Your SpaceDownsizing gives you the opportunity to reclaim your living space. A smaller home or a decluttered environment can make your life more manageable and less stressful, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.Financial BenefitsReducing your living space often comes with lower costs. Whether it's a smaller mortgage, reduced utility bills, or less money spent on upkeep, downsizing can free up your finances for more enjoyable pursuits, like travel or hobbies.A Simpler LifeWith fewer belongings, everyday life becomes less complicated. Imagine spending less time cleaning and organizing and more time doing what you love with the people you care about.Keeping the Memories AliveOne of the biggest concerns when downsizing is losing sentimental items. But downsizing doesn't mean forgetting your past. Here are ways to keep the memories while letting go of the clutter:Digitize Important ItemsScan your photos, letters, and important documents. Digital storage is not only space-saving but also ensures that your memories are safe and easily accessible.Hold Onto Meaningful KeepsakesSelect a few special items that bring you joy and hold deep sentimental value. These could be family heirlooms, a favorite piece of art, or a small collection of cherished photographs.Share with Loved OnesPassing down items to family members can be a beautiful way to keep your memories alive. It allows your loved ones to cherish the items that have been part of your life story.The Freedom AwaitsLetting go of the excess can lead to a life filled with more intentional living. Downsizing opens doors to new opportunities, experiences, and a lighter, freer way of living.As you step into 2025, consider the benefits of downsizing. Keep the memories that warm your heart and let go of the stuff that's weighing you down. Embrace the freedom that comes with a simpler, more focused life.

Whether its losing a parent, losing a spouse, or losing a child, grief is a necessary process for closure. Grief is an emotion that can take many forms and show up in a variety of ways. There are many types of grief, such as complicated grief, chronic grief, anticipatory grief, disenfranchised grief, traumatic grief, unresolved grief, and normal grief, and while some people may experience the grieving process immediately, others might have whats known as a delayed grief response. Delayed grief occurs when the feelings associated with loss dont come for weeks, months, or even years after the event.Delayed grief can be hard to understand, and its not often talked about. Learning more about delayed grief and the symptoms and triggers that may cause it can help you, a family member, or a loved one navigate the grief process and start to heal. Continue reading to learn more about delayed grief. What is Delayed Grief?Delayed grief is an emotional response to loss that doesnt manifest until long after the initial event. It can be challenging to recognize because it often appears as if theres no reason for sadness or other emotions related to grieving. This type of delayed grief trigger can occur due to shock, denial, guilt, or simply being overwhelmed by the situation. Some studies suggest that not immediately processing grief wont always lead to delayed grief in the future, but more research is still needed. What triggers delayed grief?Several things can trigger delayed grief, including traumatic events like death or divorce, significant life changes such as moving away from home, and unresolved issues from childhood like physical or emotional abuse or neglect. Other potential triggers may include physical illness, financial problems, and relationship difficulties. Regardless of what triggers grief, its important to remember that everyone grieves differently. There is no right way to do so even if your feelings dont surface immediately after your loss.Wakanda Forever, the latest Black Panther film, addressed the death of the main character/actor Chadwick Boseman. The writers focused on what happens when we hold on to guilt and shame surrounding the loss. Those feelings are often turned into anger directed outwardly. Chadwicks death opened a larger conversation about grief. Talkspace therapist Dr. Karmen Smith LCSW DDSymptoms of Delayed GriefThe symptoms associated with delayed grief response are similar to those experienced during acute bereavement (the period immediately following a death). Symptoms of delayed grief may include: Intense emotions like:AngerGuiltDepression AnxietySadnessPhysical symptoms like: FatigueDifficulty concentratingChanges in appetiteSleep disturbancesWithdrawal from social activitiesFeeling overwhelmed by everyday tasksLack of motivation Energy levels dropping significantly lower than usualAdditionally, some people may experience intrusive thoughts about their deceased loved one, which can lead to flashbacks or nightmares. As these dreams or thoughts fade away when reality sets back in, they can trigger another grief response. Causes of Delayed GriefEven though its not unusual for people to experience delayed grief, it can be hard to understand why it happens. Here are some common causes of delayed grief:Youve had enough time after the lossSometimes, you need time to process your emotions before fully grieving. For example, when someone dies suddenly, you may not have had enough time to come to terms with their death and start grieving right away. Unfortunately, this means that your feelings may catch up with you later on down the line when you finally have enough space in your life for them.The busyness is overAnother cause of delayed grief is related to the busyness that takes over following a loss. Taking care of practical matters like funeral arrangements, sorting out finances, and reaching out to friends and family might not leave much time for processing emotions. Then, once everything else has been taken care of, theres nothing left but you and your feelings. This can lead to intense bouts of delayed grief surfacing in the future.Youre faced with sudden remindersSometimes reminders from everyday life can trigger an unexpected wave of grief, according to studies. You might hear a song that reminds you of your lost loved one. You may see something they used to enjoy doing. These sudden interactions could bring up emotions without warning even if its been months since their passing.How to Deal With Delayed Grief: 6 TipsDelayed grief can begin weeks, months, or even years after the death of a loved one. Its important to acknowledge that delayed grief is just as valid and authentic as immediate grief. However, because of this (sometimes extensive) gap between loss and grief starting, it can be challenging to know how to navigate this time. Here are six tips on how best to deal with this type of complicated emotion:1. Find supportReach out for help if needed so you dont feel alone during this difficult period. Talk openly about what youre going through with people wholl listen without judgment, such as close friends and family members who knew your lost loved one.  2. Seek grief counselingIf talking doesnt seem enough, consider seeking professional help with online grief counseling. Therapists trained in bereavement counseling can offer advice tailored to help you manage intense emotions stemming from delayed grief.3. Practice mindfulnessSome quiet moments each day dedicated to activities like yoga, mindfulness meditation, or journaling can help clear your mind while allowing space for reflection. These acts can bring clarity to thoughts and emotions, potentially making healing easier.4. Be kind to yourselfRemember that theres no right way when it comes down to grieving, so allow yourself to take all the time necessary, without any pressure from anyone else. Self-care means not pushing yourself too hard, either. Get plenty of rest, eat healthy meals, and do something you enjoy daily. It can even be small things, like watching your favorite movie or walking in your favorite neighborhood.5. Let yourself feelAllow yourself to fully experience all the different emotions connected with losing someone. Dont suppress your feelings or think you need to move on quickly. Its ok to cry, shout, and scream do whatever feels right for you because, eventually, those feelings will start to fade naturally once you express them.Its important to know that the way you go through the loss of a loved one may look different from another person. There could be times when people may think you are not grieving the way they think you should. This is where self-awareness comes in. If you are aware that your view of the world has gotten more dark, scary or less loving after your loss, then you could be stuck in one of the stages of grief and may need help to move through it. Talkspace therapist Dr. Karmen Smith, LCSW, DD6. Honor the lossLastly, find ways to honor the memory of the person you lost. This could mean creating a photo album full of pictures together, writing a poem, holding a memorial, or doing something meaningful that was important to them. Sharing stories with others can keep your loved ones legacy alive forever, and that can help you move through the grieving process. Many people focus on what they have lost, and there may not be much healing. Switching their focus to what they gained from that person being in their life can bring huge healing. Talkspace therapist Dr. Karmen Smith LCSW DDAddress Your Grief with TalkspaceDelayed grief occurs when you experience the death of a loved one but dont process your emotions until much later. This can cause confusion and distress for those affected by delayed grief. Fortunately, there are ways to address this type of grief, including through online grief counseling with Talkspace. Online therapy services offer support for any grief, including when its delayed. By connecting with experienced therapists at Talkspace, youll have access to helpful resources and personalized guidance that helps you cope in these trying times. Join Talkspace today to start healing from delayed grief with effective grief therapy techniques.Sources:Bonanno GA. Examining the Delayed Grief Hypothesis Across 5 Years of Bereavement. American Behavioral Scientist. 2001;44. doi:DOI:10.1177/00027640121956502. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0002764201044005007. Accessed December 21, 2022. Wilson DM, Underwood L, Errasti-Ibarrondo B. A scoping research literature review to map the evidence on grief triggers. Social Science & Medicine. 2021;282:114109. doi:10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114109. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S027795362100441X?dgcid=author. Accessed December 21, 2022. Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.Our goal at Talkspace is to provide the most up-to-date, valuable, and objective information on mental health-related topics in order to help readers make informed decisions.Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked to in the text or listed at the bottom to take readers directly to the source.