Sundowning, or sundown syndrome, affects some folks who have Alzheimer's illness and dementia. People with dementia who "sundown," encounter periods of increased confusion and agitation as the sun goes down; and occasionally through the night. Sundowning may prevent individuals with dementia from sleeping well. It might also make them more prone to wander. Sundowning is [...]
There is a substantial body of evidence about the effects stress can have on your body, both short term, and long term. When a person is placed in a stressful situation, there is a biochemical response in the body involving a plethora of hormones, and these hormones can have lasting effect on the body and [...]
One of the most common mistakes made when it comes to a sudden change in a loved one’s cognitive status is to assume it is a normal part of aging. “Grandpa is getting senile.” Mom is just getting old.” Although cognitive abilities do tend to dull somewhat with age, it is not normal for someone [...]
In the course of caring for a loved one, often mealtimes can become increasingly challenging and frustrating as diseases progress. Whether it is progression of dementia or other cognitive disabilities, or increasing physical constraints, there are countless factors that can lead to difficulties at mealtime. There are some important issues to bear in mind and [...]