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#TBI #Sports #Dementia #BrainHealth At first, glance, wearing your helmet might seem like pure common sense. Unfortunately, we still see many people these days that aren’t wearing helmets when they are riding a bike, rollerblading, or involved in other outdoor activities. In my clinical work, I see many people that have suffered a mild traumatic brain injury due to not wearing a helmet in a situation where it was called for. We’re seeing everything from mild traumatic brain injury and concussion to people who have had open head injuries and lost parts of their brain because of trauma. Wearing your helmet is one of the simple things you can do to actively prevent or decrease the risk of suffering a significant injury to the brain. This applies to any type of wheeled sport, whether it’s a motorcycle, bicycle, scooter, or rollerblade. When you fall during one of these activities, and your legs come out from underneath you, the first thing to hit the pavement is often your head. Many agencies and organizations have collected research and statistics. This includes the insurance industry, highway, and safety divisions. The website helmets.org helps to provide a clear picture of a profile for the most likely candidates getting hurt on bicycles due to not wearing helmets. The composite profile for bicycle fatality is a sober male over 16 who is not wearing a helmet while riding on a major road as he crossed an intersection in an urban area on a summer evening when he was hit by a car. A statistic from a major U.S. city within the past decade is that 74% of fatal bike crashes involved a head injury. Of that 74 percent, a staggering 97 percent were not wearing a helmet. This is irrefutable evidence that if you want to stay alive during a bicycle crash and avoid significant head injury, you must wear a helmet. The numbers paint a very clear picture that helmets save lives. Of equal importance is that they preserve health and reduce the risk of compromised brain function. This is not to say that if you’re wearing a helmet, you won’t have some kind of brain injury. However, you are significantly reducing your odds of suffering a severe brain injury that could affect you throughout your life. It’s also worth noting that the price point for a good, solid, approved helmet only ranges between $15 to $30. Of course, the value of wearing a helmet doesn’t just extend to riding a bike or rollerblading. You should see it as mandatory for you and your family to wear them in all activities other than walking (e.g., skiing, white water sports, etc.). Protect your noggin! Check out our booklet, The Big Umbrella ™, for The Cognitive Action Plan ™. In it, you’ll find recommendations that include and go beyond protecting your head from concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) . The opinions expressed by contributing authors are not necessarily the opinions of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org

A Dementia diagnosis can be confusing and challenging, but individuals and families can feel empowered using dementia planning strategies as they navigate their next steps. Board-certified chiropractic neurologist Dr. Michael S. Trayford and neuropsychologist Dr. Karen Sullivan give their insights into memory and cognitive care strategies for people living with Dementia, as well as their families. 1. Assemble a Care Team Once you’ve been given a proper diagnosis and a second opinion, an organized treatment plan should be on the agenda. Planning will most likely include a team of various medical specialists, your primary care physician, and your loved ones. Sullivan believes that individuals need to partner with their brain health provider so that that person can keep them up to date on clinical trials and programming that could be helpful. She believes that an extension of that plan should be a neuropsychologist. However, she’s aware that there are many more patients than neuropsychologists in the U.S. today. Nonetheless, here’s a resource to start the search . According to Sullivan, “Your neuropsychologist is your best partner for figuring out a whole-person strategy. We spend so much time getting the right diagnosis, but we must remember that this is just one part of the person's identity.” She explains that it’s important to “zoom out” and help the person living with Dementia process their diagnosis and any changes they are going through. Sullivan says that the individual themselves need to be a part of the planning, and early measures should include a living will so that loved ones won’t need to scramble or argue about the next stages. “I think patients should start documenting their preferences for future care. Dementia is a cognitive disorder, and while discussing living wills is tough, it’s important for individuals to be able to advocate for themselves while they are still able.” 2. Take Advantage of Early Interventions Trayford is the founder of APEX Brain Centers, Asheville, NC. He suggests that individuals could start a regiment of brain-healthy lifestyle changes to help slow cognitive decline. “You may not reverse a progressive pathology in the brain, but you might increase your chances of doing more for longer, whatever ‘more’ means to you and your quality of life.” Trayford continues, “The more confident we are on two feet, the more confident we are in our psychological, cognitive, and emotional processes.” Lifestyle changes should also be incorporated. He says, “These lifestyle changes could include anti-inflammatory diets, higher fat diets, or lower sugar diets for better brain function. Keeping your blood sugar in check if you have diabetes.” He also recommends that individuals keep moving - whether that means taking a walk, finding a program like Silver Sneakers® , or participating in a virtual chair yoga session. “It’s all about the important brain-body connection, and we deal with balance and cognition. Getting in tune with your physical body and if you can handle it, cardiovascular exercise needs to be a regular part of the regiment.” Sullivan says, “We're really moving towards an early and more accurate diagnosis of Dementia.” She recommends that her patients enroll in research studies early on, which might make a difference, but more importantly, doing so can help her patients feel like they are part of future treatment. There are many trials nationwide, and a great way to start looking is to use the Society's Dementia Answers® directory. 3. Live Your Life Sullivan says that when teams launch into a treatment plan, it’s easy to forget the patient’s humanness. “I have learned the importance of just being quiet for a little bit and letting the diagnosis sit there for a few minutes and giving people time and space to hear it and to process it,” she explains. She also expresses that patients don’t want to feel forgotten, “That ‘D word’ comes with stereotypes. Instead of letting the diagnosis color everything, remember that Dementia doesn’t define you.” “I really like that the Dementia Society of America® is working to represent all types of Dementia,” says Sullivan. When the stress of the initial diagnosis lessens, Sullivan says that gratitude tends to kick in. “Right now, you’re grateful to be alive and healthy, right? So I encourage people to pursue new passions, whether painting, playing music, or bird watching.” Contributing authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org Tonya Russell is a South Jersey-based writer who specializes in health and wellness. Her words can be found in the New York Times, Washington Post, Forbes, and Prevention.

Awareness and education are the first steps to understanding Dementia. Dementia is a complex syndrome that affects millions of individuals worldwide, as well as their families and caregivers. In the United States, the Dementia Society of America (DSA) has emerged as a prominent organization that raises awareness and supports those affected by Dementia. With its unwavering commitment to education, awareness, and community engagement, DSA is vital in empowering individuals living with Dementia and fostering a more inclusive society. This article will explore five aspects of its mission, initiatives, and impact. Understanding DSA and Its Mission : The Dementia Society of America is a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization celebrating 10 years of improving the lives of individuals living with Dementia, their caregivers, and their families. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for those affected by Dementia, support research efforts, and advocate for the needs of this vulnerable population. Education and Awareness Programs : Education is vital to the DSA's work. The organization offers a wide range of educational programs and resources designed to increase awareness and understanding of Dementia. Through workshops, conferences, webinars, and community outreach, DSA equips healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the general public with the knowledge and tools necessary to provide practical support and care for individuals living with Dementia. DSA's educational outreach promotes Dementia awareness among students and fosters a compassionate and inclusive society. By educating future generations about Dementia, DSA aims to reduce stigma and create an environment that embraces and supports individuals affected by the condition. Support and Services : Recognizing the challenges faced by individuals living with Dementia and their caregivers, the Dementia Society of America provides various support programs. These include their 1-800-DEMENTIA® information helpline, supportive online programs, a comprehensive online website with helpful information and guidance, local resources directory , and an extensive definitions section to understand the different types of Dementia better. The organization also recognizes the importance of respite care programs that give caregivers much-needed relief, allowing them to recharge and continue providing optimal care for their loved ones. Through their Dementia Aware America™ initiative, DSA promotes Dementia education, accessibility, and grassroots changes to ensure that communities can support and accommodate individuals living with Dementia and their families. Additionally, DSA prioritizes the creation of Dementia-aware communities. By collaborating with local businesses, organizations, and concerned citizens, they work to develop environments that are accessible, safe, and inclusive for individuals living with Dementia. Research and Innovation : DSA recognizes the importance of research in advancing our understanding of Dementia and improving care practices. With cures being elusive over the past 100 years, the organization actively supports research projects and partnerships to find better treatments, interventions, and meaningful therapies for the various types and causes of Dementia. Through collaborations and partnerships, DSA believes in driving innovation within the Dementia community. Advocacy : DSA recognizes community advocacy efforts at the local and national levels to create lasting change. DSA advocates for increased funding for Dementia research, improved access to quality care and support services, and integration of "Dementia-friendly" practices in various public and private sectors. DSA joins with others to influence opinions and perspectives promoting the rights and well-being of individuals with Dementia. The Dementia Society of America is a beacon of hope for those affected by Dementia. Through its comprehensive educational programs, support services, research initiatives, and Ginny Gives Grants, the organization has made significant strides in transforming communities and improving the lives of individuals living with Dementia. By fostering awareness, understanding, and inclusivity, DSA stands at the forefront of the fight against Dementia, empowering individuals and families with hope and healing through knowledge. In recognition of the Dementia Society's National Dementia Awareness Month this May, please consider supporting the Dementia Society of America through its annual Ride Against Dementia™ Challenge on Facebook, or make a direction donation here anytime .

When 77-year-old Anne (pseudonym) was diagnosed with Dementia, her family wanted to keep her engaged in art. After all, she was a successful abstract artist for decades, so why stop now? Her family expected her to use the art studio in her condo–which was full of all sorts of supplies–like she previously did, but that didn’t happen. “ The family didn’t understand how they needed to help with cueing and getting [Anne] engaged,” says Jeannine Forrest, Dem entia care coach and advisory council member for Dementia Society of America ® . “We coached the family about how to bring out just a few art supplies at a time,” among other tips. Anne’s husband, who is also her caregiver, turned on her favorite opera music in the background and created art with her. Once a solo activity, it soon became something they enjoyed together. “What was wonderful was that they both had meaningful and positive [experiences] within this environment,” says Forrest. “Her husband’s face just lit up being able to bring out that light in her that used to make her shine.” A positive atmosphere is essential for everyone, especially individuals living with Dementia. It’s a space where people “feel empowered, respected, and as if they have choice and purpose,” explains Forrest. Here are 4 ways to create a positive space for those living with Dementia: 1. Think beyond the physical space. When Forrest thinks of the environment, she considers two areas: inner and outer rings. The inner ring, which is the people, is just as important as the outer ring, the physical space. The people include whoever is caring for and/or interacting with a person living with Dementia. Those individuals should be well informed that the person’s brain is changing, says Forrest. It’s more than memory loss. Some of the 22 common signs and symptoms include poor judgment, difficulty with senses, heightened anxiety, and more. With that information in mind, individuals should have a willingness to learn how to adapt to those changes and communicate in different ways. For example, a person should always aim to use language that is empowering and uplifting, not stigmatizing. 2. Create safe, organized rooms. Regardless of where a person living with Dementia is living–at home, a care facility, or elsewhere–it’s important to prioritize safety and organization. Ensuring safety for everyone is paramount. This involves removing potential fall risks, such as throw rugs or cords. Organization is key too. Avoid cluttering the space with piles of books and other objects. When the space is too busy, it can be overstimulating and distracting, especially for someone whose brain is changing. 3. Add wayfinding signs. One easy way to give choice and dignity to people living with Dementia is through wayfinding signs. It’s common for individuals with Dementia to get lost in familiar places. Or perhaps they’re in a new place, and all the doors look the same. That’s when physical signs can be incredibly helpful. Wayfinding signs have “not only the word but a picture of the toilet and the washroom [for example], so that the person who is living has Dementia can walk by and identify where they are,” says Forrest. 4. Incorporate homelike objects. The main spaces where a person living with Dementia spends most of their time should be cozy and homelike. While this comes more naturally in a person’s home, it’s certainly possible to achieve in a care community. Forrest suggests adding familiar objects, such as photos and other mementos, that bring the person joy and comfort. While this is important, Forrest emphasizes that a beautiful, high-end environment will not make up for a poor inner ring. “It’s more than the physical space. That’s part of it, but that’s not what makes the difference in terms of quality time and quality of life,” says Forrest. “It is the people who interact in that space, that inner ring, that makes all the difference in the world.” The opinions of contributing authors are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org

Exercise is critically important for brain health and vitality. One of the keys to establishing a consistent exercise routine is to develop a mindset of making the time rather than trying to find the time. Of course, there are a lot of facets involved in exercise selection and location. Plus, you must check with your doctor before beginning a physical activity outside your daily routine. For many, when they think about exercise, they think about going to go to the gym. It is estimated that over 60% of people with a gym membership either fail to use it at all or use it so infrequently that it imparts no long-term health benefits. While some people enjoy going to the gym, and gyms serve a great purpose, most people see it as something they have to do instead of something they want to do. That’s not necessarily a good place to be because pulling yourself away from doing other things you like (e.g., hiking, canoeing, birdwatching, etc.) can create stress in your life. So, in a particular light, you could view this as a stress management tool. Choosing exercises and activities that you like to do increases the odds that you will stay dedicated to keeping exercise as a planned part of your daily routine. The way to succeed is by doing something you love to do. For some people, this might mean exercising in nature, even gardening ; for others, it might be something simple like taking the family out for a long walk through the neighborhood. There are added benefits to these types of activities in the different ways they stimulate the brain. Bending, stretching, as able, and moving plants around seems low-impact, but if you've not done it for a while, start slowing. Exercising in nature, however, promotes your awareness and sense of place. Walking through the neighborhood creates opportunities for social interaction when you catch up with neighbors and friends you meet along the way. Doing something you want to do is critically important because it provides more than just the exercise. It offers a host of tools that will also help to train your brain positively. Motivation enhances learning. This makes it much easier to develop a habit when it’s something that you love to do. Contributor: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For more information, please visit https://apexbraincenters.com/cognitive-decline-asheville-nc/ . Contributing authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org

POA and Legal Matters There are many legal matters you must attend to before you or another person can be an effective caregiver/care partner. Two of the most important ones are becoming your loved one’s Power of Attorney (POA) and, when warranted, his or her guardian and conservator. In addition, your loved one should have already composed and signed his or her advance directive, do not resuscitate (DNR) instructions, and his or her will. Competency is one of those hard-to-define words. Most people realize that competency has something to do with understanding information and performing tasks to an acceptable level. But what about competency as it applies to people who have dementia? To evaluate competency, healthcare professionals and lawyers consider the specific skills or tasks the patient needs to perform. A power of attorney is a legal document that states your loved one voluntarily gives you the right to act on his or her behalf. Since only competent individuals can grant power of attorney, it is vital to have a POA in place well before the need arises. People with early-stage dementia often do have the capacity to make decisions and, therefore, can sign the power of attorney papers. If you are the designated POA, you can converse with your loved one’s doctor and other healthcare providers. Without POA papers, you cannot pay your loved one’s bills, make banking transactions, sign income tax returns, or speak with credit card, insurance, and cellphone representatives. Guardian and conservatorship are necessary when your loved one has neither been assigned as his or her POA nor is competent to do so. Guardians are responsible for their loved one’s safety, food, clothing, and shelter. Conservators are responsible for paying bills and managing and protecting property and financial assets. Most often, the person who is the guardian is also the conservator. The guardian and conservatorship process is expensive, lengthy, and emotionally draining. Becoming your loved one’s guardian or conservator requires the services of several lawyers, a court petition, and a court hearing. An advance directive or living will, is a document that outlines your loved one’s end-of-life wishes in the event he or she becomes mentally or physically incapacitated. The advance directive states the conditions where he or she may or may not want tube feeding, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), or other artificial life-sustaining measures. Your loved one can appoint you or another person, to make these end-of-life decisions. In case of a heart attack, stroke, pneumonia, or another life-threatening condition, resuscitation instructions are another aspect of the advance directive. A DNR is the abbreviation many people use instead of stating “do not resuscitate.” Often, doctors, hospitals, and long-term care facilities will not admit or treat patients who do not have a living will on file. Then, you, as his or her POA or guardian, must make those difficult decisions. Writing and modifying the will is another topic that involves competency. Suspicions of coercion can pit family members against one another. As with all essential documents – keep records, make copies to use when an original is unnecessary, AND inform need-to-know individuals where and how to access these critical papers. To find an attorney specializing in elder law, consider this organization, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and their "Find a Lawyer" directory or our Dementia Answers Directory . Contributor: Janet Yagoda Shagam, PhD, is a freelance medical and science writer and the author of “ An Unintended Journey: A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia.” Available through Amazon . Contributing authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org

This brain health tip is as much about quality communication as it is about stress management. On the surface, taking time to reply to emails or other communications is about giving yourself time to formulate your thoughts so you can speak intelligently and get your point across. This can be a challenge in some situations, mainly if there’s an emotional charge to the topic or another factor that might tempt you to overreact. You need time, or a refractory period, to allow your brain to sort things out, create a reasonable understanding, and, hopefully, reply with an unbiased, non-confrontational opinion. If the topic is complex or emotionally charged, you might want to ask a neutral party you trust to help you formulate your response. This sounding board helps you ensure you’re clear and respond appropriately. While this tip primarily applies to email correspondence, there are a lot of other communication methods and social media outlets where it is also applicable. Texting can be particularly prone to miscommunication glitches as you’re forced to respond often in short detail so that it conforms with the speed with which we tend to fire off texts. This easily allows things to be misconstrued or misunderstood, or it could cause the other person to respond in an inflammatory manner. This is particularly important in the Dementia and cognitive realm decline as social cues are often necessary to put the communication into proper context so it is not misunderstood. Most people can get their point across with adequate clarity regarding business communications or communicating information in a dry or technical manner. As a general rule of thumb, if something is emotionally charged or controversial, it’s a good idea to take the time to sit back, relax, and think about it. There may be a big difference in how you feel if you sleep on it. People don’t always need answers right away. I think you will find that, in many cases, you will serve yourself and the person you’re communicating with at a much higher level if you allow yourself the time to reflect on what you will write. Sometimes, you might not even need to reply at all! Contributor: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For more information, please visit https://apexbraincenters.com/cognitive-decline-asheville-nc/ . Contributing authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org

There is accumulating evidence that dementia has a long preclinical phase that may begin years or even decades before a clinical diagnosis. 1 In addition, data indicating the preclinical signs of dementia and declines in memory and other cognitive skills also include motor skill difficulties. It is clear that the onset of dementia may affect motor skills. It's difficult to tease out regular age-related changes in coordination and balance from those motor skills that put people at increased risk for dementia. Measures of preclinical impairments include changes in gait and walking speed, loss of muscle mass and strength, as well as reduced manual agility and balance. Once Dementia becomes part of the picture, friends and family members become increasingly aware of the changes in their loved one's memory and organizational skills. They may also notice their loved one has difficulty dressing or walking without assistance. Like the worsening cognition we associate with Dementia, losses in stamina and coordination also reflect more widespread brain damage. Research shows that physical exercise plays a vital role in helping to protect, maintain, and improve the health and well-being of people in either the preclinical or the clinical stages of dementia. As is true for everyone, physical exercises must be safe, enjoyable, and give a sense of accomplishment. However, before embarking on new or increased physical activity, you must get approval from your loved one's doctor. A physical therapist (PT) is often an excellent place to start. They can devise an exercise plan to improve stamina, flexibility, balance and exercises to prevent falls. You can find information about local physical therapists on the American Physical Therapy webpage: https://www.apta.org/ . Your loved one's doctor, nurse, or medical social worker are other good sources of information. Exercise also includes walking, dancing, gardening, and (ugh) housework. All are inexpensive, do not require specialized equipment, and come with the satisfaction of having done something worthwhile. As an added benefit, all of these, and similar activities, are sources of social and cognitive stimulation. Exercise also includes activities that improve small or fine-muscle motor skills. The ability to button a shirt, open a cereal box, or use eating utensils helps people living with Dementia maintain their independence for as long as possible. An occupational therapist (OT) can suggest helpful exercises and adaptive equipment that can make it possible to live at home for as long as possible. Go to The American Occupational Therapy Association webpage to learn more about occupational therapy and the many ways occupational therapy can help people who have dementia: http://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy.aspx . Small muscle exercises include pastimes such as craft projects, scrapbooking, baking, working with clay, painting, and drawing. These simple, inexpensive small muscle activities encourage socialization and maintain or improve cognition. An added benefit, and perhaps the most important one, is making things to share with others creates mementos of a life together and affirms the whole person. Reference 1.Buchman AS and D Bennett. Loss of Motor Function in Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3121966/ . Access; September 25, 2016. Contributor: Janet Yagoda Shagam, PhD, is a freelance medical and science writer and the author of “ An Unintended Journey: A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia.” Available through Amazon . Contributing authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org

Setting Up a Safe Space When you’re caring for a parent or a loved one living with Dementia at home, setting up a safer space may help prevent them from tripping, falling, and becoming confused. Creative home updates that help your loved one see or find objects more easily and move through the home independently may also help keep them happier, healthier, and safer at home for longer. Here’s how to make a home that is Dementia-friendly so they can make the most of their daily living space. For starters, basic home safety is an essential factor in Dementia care. “People living with Dementia are more vulnerable to trips and falls because their coordination, balance, and spatial awareness may be impaired,” says Aldrich Chan, PsyD , a neuropsychologist who practices in Miami. Getting rid of trip hazards in the home—such as long cords, wires, clutter, and rugs—may help prevent your loved one from falling and injuring themselves. Remove clutter, swap long cords (such as electrical or extension cords) for shorter versions, and remove any rugs or mats that may be tripping hazards. Another way to help prevent trips and falls is by installing motion-activated night lights to help people living with Dementia see where they’re going when they get up in the dark and also see better in poorly lit areas. Consider placing such lights in the kitchen, hallways, and bedroom, and around the stairs. Pay Particular Attention to Smoke Alarms You’ll also want to ensure that the home’s smoke detectors are functioning and that the alarm, should it go off, is loud enough for someone living with Dementia to hear even when their ear is on the pillow, and covers are over their head. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, you should check your home’s smoke detectors monthly and get new ones every 10 years. Store and Secure Storage safety is another factor to consider in creating a Dementia-friendly home, and certain items should be placed behind locked cabinets. For example, someone living with Dementia may confuse household cleaning products—such as detergents, laundry or dishwasher pods, and colorful liquid cleaners—with candy, edible foods, or drinks. These products are extremely toxic and dangerous to ingest. Plastic bags may also be a threat, as they may inadvertently become a suffocation hazard for people living with Dementia. Knives, scissors, and other sharp, pointed objects are also safety risks. “People living with Dementia may experience behavioral and psychological symptoms that can lead to agitation, confusion, or even aggression,” Chan says. “Access to sharp objects increases the risk of self-harm or harm to caregivers and family members during distress.” A Dementia-friendly home should have all of these items stored in cabinets with locks that can be found in the “childproofing” section of a big box retailer or on the Internet. Stairs may pose another safety risk. Put brightly colored or reflective tape on the edges of the steps, and ensure all the steps are sturdy and secure. You’ll want to install textured strips or use non-skid wax on floors made of hardwood or tile to keep them from becoming slippery. “Preventing accidents in the home is so important when people are living with Dementia,” Chan says. In the kitchen, choosing appropriate appliances is key. People living with Dementia may forget they turned an appliance on and walk away from the kitchen, which may be dangerous or create a mess, depending on the appliance. Choose small electric appliances that will shut themselves off after a specific amount of time, such as tea kettles or drip coffeemakers. Although expensive, automatic shutoff switches can be installed on the stove. Another approach is to remove knobs from stoves and secure them when not needed. Disconnect or Make it Difficult to Operate Machinery You may also consider disconnecting the garbage disposal to help prevent any potential injuries. People living with Dementia can become confused and have “altered judgment, and that could result in their putting inappropriate or non-food items in the disposal, leading to clogs or damage,” Chan says. If disconnecting the disposal doesn’t make sense for the rest of the household, ask an electrician to put the on/off switch inside a cabinet and secure the cabinet when not in use. If your loved one forgets where things in the kitchen or around the house are located, labeling cupboards, cabinets, and drawers with their contents (or including photos) may help them visualize what’s inside. Labeling can preserve the person’s dignity, Chan says. “By using labels discreetly, it allows individuals living with Dementia to maintain their independence, as they can more easily locate items without constant assistance,” Chan says. When it comes to the bathroom, set the home’s water heater to 120°F to help prevent too-hot temperatures when washing hands or using the shower or bath. Installing handrails, a bath seat, a plastic shower stool, or a handheld showerhead may make showering and bathing easier. Certain color choices in the bathroom may help identify essential items. If possible, have toilet seats, handrails, towels, and soap in contrasting colors from the walls and their surroundings. For example, if the bathroom walls are white or beige, a colorful toilet seat or toilet seat cover may be easier for your loved one to identify, as opposed to a standard white one, and a green bar of soap may be easier to see than a white bar on a white countertop. Replacing shower curtains that have busy patterns with those that are solid colored may make them less confusing and distracting as well. Lastly, to help prevent your loved one from slipping and falling in the bathroom, buy larger, non-slip bath mats or install non-slip flooring throughout the bathroom. Some floor tiles can be made more non-slip through special surface treatments without replacing them. Check with a professional flooring expert to get it done right if you want to go in that direction. People living with Dementia can have difficulty managing locks, Chan says, so you may want to remove the locks from the bathroom doors to help prevent them from getting locked inside. Instead, you may wish to install non-locking lever-style door handles on both sides of the door. Mirrors Can Have an Interesting Impact You may also cover or remove mirrors in the bathroom and elsewhere in the home. People living with Dementia may not understand the concept of their reflection, and seeing “someone” in the mirror may become a source of anxiety for them. Use a hand mirror alongside the person living with Dementia if you want to show them something on their face or in their mouth or to gently help them better cope with mirrors and reflections if removing all reflective surfaces is impractical. In the bedroom, it’s helpful to clarify what’s what. Paint the bedroom door a different color from the hallway to make it easier for the person living with Dementia to recognize. Choose bed linens in colors that contrast with the carpet so the bed is easy to see, such as navy bedding on the cream carpet. Likewise, furnish the room with sofas and chairs in colors that contrast with the walls. This will help them stand out and be easier for your loved one to see. A sturdy chair with armrests can make it easier for the person living with Dementia to maintain their balance while getting dressed and putting on their shoes. You’ll also want to decorate any large glass panels, picture windows, and sliding glass doors with eye-level decals so they’re identifiable and no one walks into the glass. Make these changes to the home gradually. You never want to make major updates to a loved one’s living space overnight. Significant changes may cause people living with Dementia to become even more confused, so update slowly so they have time to adjust to a new layout or adaptations. Bottom-Line, Change Only What Helps All of these changes might not be necessary for everyone, so evaluate the living space and see what basic home safety updates may be necessary and what additional Dementia-friendly home design ideas may be helpful. Authors' opinion s are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor.  www.DementiaSociety.org Contributing Author: Beth W. Orenstein Beth W. Orenstein is a freelance medical writer. A magna cum laude graduate of Tufts University, Orenstein has written for HealthDay, EverydayHealth, and the National Psoriasis Foundation and is a regular contributor to American Legion Magazine's Living Well and Radiology Today. References: ●       NHS: How to make your home dementia friendly. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/living-with-dementia/home-environment/ ●       U.S. Fire Administration: Smoke Alarms.  https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prepare-for-fire/smoke-alarms/   ●       National Council on Aging: Home Safety for Older Adults: A Comprehensive Guide 2023. https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/medical-alert-systems/home-safety-older-adults/   ●       Better Health Channel: Dementia — safety issues. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-safety-issues   ●       National Institute on Aging: Home Safety Checklist. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/home-safety-checklist-alzheimers-disease ●       Social Care Institute for Excellence: Dementia-friendly environments. https://www.scie.org.uk/dementia/supporting-people-with-dementia/dementia-friendly-environments/ ●       Social Care Institute for Excellence: Dementia-friendly environments: Toilets and Bathrooms. https://www.scie.org.uk/dementia/supporting-people-with-dementia/dementia-friendly-environments/toilets-and-bathrooms.asp ●       Social Care Institute for Excellence: Dementia-friendly environments. https://www.scie.org.uk/dementia/supporting-people-with-dementia/dementia-friendly-environments/bedrooms.asp

Helping a family member living with Dementia brings rewarding moments, but it may also have its challenges. You see changes in your loved one and their needs, and sometimes, you feel tired, frustrated, or emotionally drained. To help minimize stress and streamline your day, it helps to have a toolkit of Dementia care tips on hand and a built-in schedule of giving some TLC (Tender Loving Care) to yourself as a care partner.   Here are some helpful tips for Dementia caregivers. Tips to Help You Navigate Helping a Family Member with Dementia People living with Dementia, especially as the syndrome progresses, often find it difficult to express themselves. Understanding and remembering what is asked of them may also be a challenge. As a caregiver, it helps if you stay positive and speak in a pleasant tone. When asking your loved one to do something, use simple words and phrases, and try to remain patient if they ask you to repeat your request or ask the same questions. If your loved one appears sad, angry, or upset, acknowledge their feelings. Tell them you see that they're angry or frustrated, and suggest doing something together, like a walk or helping you prep for a meal, says Laura N. Gitlin, Ph D , a professor in the College of Nursing and Health Professions and executive director of the AgeWell Collaboratory at Drexel University in Philadelphia.   Helping a Family Member Living with Dementia People living with Dementia may become confused at times. Having familiar objects and people around may help. Look at a photo album of family members with your loved one regularly, pointing out who's who . Routine can bring comfort as well. Help them keep a regular sleep, hygiene, and healthy meal schedule as much as possible. Post notes in the bathroom or on the refrigerator as reminders of routine tasks, like brushing teeth and taking medicines. Place labels or photos on cupboards and drawers to help them remember what's there.   Mealtime may go more smoothly if you plan it in advance and make foods you know your loved one likes. Smaller portions are best so that their plate doesn't look overwhelming. If utensils are challenging, swap in finger foods or foods they can pick up instead, like chicken fingers or a Caesar salad wrap. Allow enough time for them to enjoy their meal slowly.   If your loved one is anxious, play calming music softly in the background to help reduce their restlessness. So the atmosphere remains calm; don't blast the TV or the radio, Gitlin says. Activities for Someone Living With Dementia People living with Dementia need to be engaged in daily life in meaningful ways. Everyday activities, like dressing and keeping up with hobbies, help to provide meaning and purpose to life, regardless of what stage of Dementia they're in, Gitlin says.   One way to include your loved one living with Dementia in an everyday activity is to have them help you prepare meals, Gitlin says. Ask them to help you make the salad. If they're able, the person living with Dementia might enjoy washing lettuce or putting pre-cut tomatoes or other salad items in a big bowl, Gitlin says. Remember to be specific in your instructions. Don't say, "Make a salad." Instead, suggest how to put the ingredients together in a bowl. They may also be able to set the table with your verbal instructions, Gitlin says. She says that if they do the task successfully, praise them and tell them what a great job they did.   Gitlin says keeping busy with activities may also improve their mood and help them stay calm. You'll want to match interests and abilities with the activities you set up. "Think about what the person living with Dementia used to like to do, and find activities that match that interest," Gitlin says. For example, someone who once worked with their hands might enjoy sorting beads or coins and moving them from one container to another. Warning: Please look for signs that the person might put small objects in their mouth to eat as if they were food. When this happens, which it can as Dementia progresses, only allow larger objects that cannot be swallowed.   Other activities to consider include folding towels or clothes, vacuuming rugs, rolling a ball of yarn, and washing dishes (even if they don't get clean), Gitlin says.   The options are truly endless. Sensory experiences like foot massages, petting an animal, brushing their hair, or even organizing spools of threads or boxes of old photos or jewelry may be calming and pleasurable. Be sure there's sufficient lighting and comfortable seating.   Regular exercise is also a wonderful way to keep people living with Dementia on a schedule of healthy movement—even a simple stroll around the block or walking laps around a mall or grocery store counts.   If your loved one is hungry or tired, it may not be the right time to try one of these activities, but you can always try later. Be flexible, too. "If they're helping you make a bed and the sheets don't line up, it's OK," Gitlin says. Dementia Safety Tips to Keep in Mind You'll need to adjust your loved one's living space to keep them safe. Make sure living areas are well-lit, including stairwells. Keeping the bedroom dark at night helps with sleep, but your loved one needs to be able to see how to get to the toilet. Motion-activated night lights may help navigation during the night. Clearing pathways is also vital to safety. Remove any fall hazards, such as throw rugs and electrical cords. Make sure tables are stable and at a height comfortable for them to eat and drink and that a wheelchair fits underneath if needed.   "I highly recommend asking your loved one's primary care doctor for a referral to an occupational therapist who can do a home evaluation for safety," Gitlin says.   Here's more on how to make a home safer  for someone living with Dementia. Don't Neglect Yourself Gitlin says that one of the first rules of caregiving is that you must first take care of yourself. Dementia care may be physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting at times, so it's important to look after your health. Look for signs of feeling rundown or overwhelmed, and take action when needed.   Ask for help from other family members, friends, and community groups, such as your church or synagogue, Gitlin says. Many places offer respite care for people living with Dementia. Find resources in your neighborhood, and sign up your loved one for as many days as you need. Local senior living groups may also offer these services.   Your Dementia caregiver toolkit includes self-care. Take time to do things you enjoy: walk, grab coffee with a friend, or see a movie. Be sure to get enough sleep, exercise in a way you enjoy, and eat nourishing meals. These things can give you a fresh perspective and energy for your role as a caregiver. Dementia Caregiver Support: Help Is Available Here are some Dementia caregiver support resources that may help:   ●       Dementia Society of America:  On our website,  you can find resources such as online caregiver training, reading materials, videos, and more, and you can search for support in your area by zip code in the Member Directory tab in our website navigation menu.   ●       Care.com :   Connects families with local ho me or facility care partners .   ●       Dementia Care Central :  P rovides in-person and online Dementia support groups for caregivers and those living with Dementia.   Authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org   Contributing Author: Beth W. Orenstein   Beth W. Orenstein is a freelance medical writer. A magna cum laude graduate of Tufts University, Orenstein has written for HealthDay, EverydayHealth, and the National Psoriasis Foundation and is a regular contributor to American Legion Magazine's Living Well and Radiology Today.   References:   Interview with Laura N. Gitlin, PhD , professor in the College of Nursing and Health Professions and executive director of the AgeWell Collaboratory at Drexel University in Philadelphia, and co-author of A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia: Using Activities and Other Strategies to Prevent, Reduce and Manage Behavioral Symptoms .American Academy of Family Physicians: Caring for a Relative Who Has Dementia https://familydoctor.org/caring-for-a-relative-who-has-dementia/   National Library of Medicine: Dementia – home care https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007428.htm   NHS: Looking after someone with Dementia https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/living-with-dementia/looking-after-someone/   NHS: How to make your home dementia friendly https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/living-with-dementia/home-environment/   Kaiser Permanente: Dementia Support for Caregivers https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.dementia-support-for-caregivers.hw136008   Houston Methodist: How to care for someone with Dementia: 5 tips for caregivers https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2022/feb/how-to-care-for-someone-with-dementia-5-tips-for-caregivers/   Department of Health, State Government of Victoria, Australia: Dementia - activities and exercise. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-activities-and-exercise

The Power of Scent Is there a connection between smell and memory? No question, says Jayant M. Pinto, MD,   a professor of surgery at the University of Chicago Medicine who studies olfactory and sinus disease. “The olfactory system is directly connected to the parts of the brain that house memory,” Dr. Pinto says. “We see this: smells can evoke strong memories, i.e., cookies your grandmother baked, your mother’s perfume, etc. This may explain why loss of smell is connected to Dementia, where memory loss is a key feature . ”   The Connection Between Scent and the Brain   Dementia is a symptom cluster brought on by a number of underlying diseases that change the brain or impair blood flow to it. Having it creates problems with memory, thinking, and making decisions.   Scent—one of the five major senses—is intricately tied to the brain and memory. The olfactory bulb, which processes smell, sits just behind the nose beneath the frontal lobe. Its job is to take in scent and send signals to other parts of the brain, including those that house emotion and memory functions.   Sense of smell is associated with the size of the brain, the health of its cells, and how robust the connections are between neurons in the brain that communicate with each other. This finding was highlighted in a 2023 study in Neurology ,  which found that a better sense of smell is tied to a slower decline in memory, attention, processing speed, and grasping and manipulating objects.   Dementia itself doesn’t cause a loss of smell—and loss of smell doesn’t cause Dementia—but the underlying disease pathology that sometimes leads to Dementia symptoms may harm areas of the brain related to the processing of scent. In other words, loss of smell may signal changes in the brain, and loss of smell can travel with Dementia.   Could Smell Predict Dementia Risk?   More research is needed on the topic of scent and Dementia, but several recent small studies   have found that loss of smell may predict who may be likely to develop Dementia. Dr. Pinto led a study  at his university that found a link between rapid loss of smell in aging adults and a decline in cognitive function in areas of the brain that are important in Dementia. The study  of 515 older adults was published in 2022 in Alzheimer’s & Dementia .   Other recent studies have also found a link between a decline in the sense of smell and a decline in memory. Researchers at the University of California San Francisco followed 1,794 adults ages 70 to 79 who did not have Dementia for 10 years and found that those whose sensory functions, including smell, declined even mildly showed an accelerated cognitive decline as well. Their study  was published in 2020, also in Alzheimer’s & Dementia .   Aromatherapy and Dementia: What Aromatherapy May Mean for Dementia Care   The big question is: Can this connection b etween scent and memory be turned around to help patients with Dementia manage and control their symptoms? Research on Dementia and aromatherapy—a complementary therapy that uses essential oils from plants to help improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being—is sparse, but experts see it as a promising new field.   “There is some data supporting a role for sm e ll training (a form of aromatherapy), which suggests it can be helpful for patients with decreased smell due to viral infections such as COVID-19,” Dr. Pinto says. He  believes this kind of brain stimulation could possibly be extended to people with Dementia or mild cognitive impairment (a precursor to Dementia ) who also have smell impairment.   An author of the 2020 study in Alzheimer’s & Dementia , Willa D. Brenowitz,  PhD, MPH, an investigator at Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research in Portland, Oregon, says, “Smell is traditionally thought to be a preclinical indicator of Dementia and neurodegeneration affecting the olfactory bulb (the main brain region that processes smell).” If that’s true, she says, it would be unlikely that aromatherapy could have any impact on those with Dementia.   However, some small recent research suggests the possibility of an important role of olfaction (the sensation of smell) in quality of life. If this were to prove to be true too, aromatherapy could possibly be shown to help calm those with Dementia. “More work is needed in this area,” Brenowitz says.   O ne small study  led by researchers at the University of California Irvine’s Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders shows promise that aromatherapy could someday prove to help   mana ge  Dementia. The findings were  published in 2023 in Frontiers in Neuroscience . Researchers  enrolled 43 men and women ages 60  to 85 who were in good health and who had no diagnosis of cognitive impairment or Dementia. One group was given an odorant diffuser and told to turn it on for 2 hours at night when they went to bed. It diffused 7 essential oils: rose, orange, eucalyptus, rosemary, peppermint, laven der,  and lemon. Participants were exposed to one of the s cents  each night. The control group was given the same diffuser and the same instructions, but theirs contained distilled water with undetectable amounts of odor. After 6 months, the researchers found more of those exposed to the scents showed improvements in memory compared to those who were not exposed.   Researchers have also looked at the effects of aromatherapy on behavioral and psychological symptoms of Dementia. In a 2021 review of 24 studies in Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders   Extra , researchers found that aromatherapy could potentially be a safe and effective therapy for people with Dementia because it appeared to improve quality of life and reduce distress. Inhalation of aromatherapy was the most common method across the studies because it works quickly and has little risk of adverse effects.   What to Know About Using Aromatherapy in Dementia   A romatherapy has been shown to improve sleep , relieve stress , help manage pain when combined with more conventional treatments , reduce anxiety , and help provide relief from depression symptoms .   Scents that have been  shown to create a sense of calm  include lavender, rosemary, and orange . Other scents that may reduce stress and anxiety  in clude chamomil e, sandalwood, and rose.   For  those wanting to try aromatherapy for someone with Dementia, here are some tips.   Always explain what you are doing to the person with Dementia. Let them know you are introducing scents to see if they like smelling them and how they make them feel. Aromatherapy may be inhaled or applied to the skin. A few drops of pure essential oils can be dropped onto a tissue, cotton ball, or warm compress and given to the person for smelling. Inhalation may also be done with a room diffuser. To apply essential oils on the skin (such as the wrist or feet), oils should be diluted in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, to prevent a skin reaction. Essential oils may also be added to bath water or added to lotions. Massage (with lotion or diluted oils) could be a nice way to introduce these essential oils onto the skin. Through trial and error, assess their response to each oil to see what type of effect it has. Some may be useful at nighttime before bed, while others may be beneficial to start the day.   Authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org   Contributing Author: Beth W. Orenstein   Beth W. Orenstein is a freelance medical writer. A magna cum laude graduate of Tufts University, Orenstein has written for HealthDay, EverydayHealth, and the National Psoriasis Foundation and is a regular contributor to American Legion Magazine's Living Well and Radiology Today.   References :   Interview with Jayant M. Pinto, MD. University of Chicago. https://profiles.uchicago.edu/profiles/display/39298   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Dementia. April 5, 2019. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/dementia/index.html   Harvard Gazette. What the nose knows: Experts discuss the science of smell and how scent, emotion, and memory are intertwined — and exploited. February 27, 2020. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/02/how-scent-emotion-and-memory-are-intertwined-and-exploited/   National Institute on Aging. Sense of smell linked to speed of brain loss and cognitive decline. March 30, 2023. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/sense-smell-linked-speed-brain-loss-and-cognitive-decline   Associations of Olfaction With Longitudinal Trajectories of Brain Volumes and Neuropsychological Function in Older Adults. Neurology . February 28, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9990434/   U Chicago News. Rapid loss of smell predicts dementia and smaller brain areas linked to Alzheimer’s. July 28, 2022. https://news.uchicago.edu/story/rapid-loss-smell-predicts-dementia-and-smaller-brain-areas-linked-alzheimers   Rapid olfactory decline during aging predicts dementia and GMV loss in AD brain regions. Alzheimer’s & Dementia . April 2023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35899859/   Incident and faster rates of cognitive decline are associated with worse multisensory function summary scores. Alzheimer’s & Dementia . July 2020. https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.12134   PDQ Cancer Information Summaries. Aromatherapy with Essential Oils. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK65874/   Interview with Willa Brenowitz, PhD, MPH. Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research. https://research.kpchr.org/Research/Our-People/Willa-Brenowitz   Overnight olfactory enrichment using an odorant diffuser improves memory and modifies the uncinate fasciculus in older adults. Frontiers in Neuroscience . July 2023. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2023.1200448/full   Rapid Reversal of Cognitive Decline, Olfactory Dysfunction, and Quality of Life Using Multi-Modality Photobiomodulation Therapy. Case Reports . March 2019. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31050946/   Olfactory Dysfunction Predicts Subsequent Dementia in Older U.S. Adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society . September 2017. https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.15048   Effectiveness and Safety of Aromatherapy in Managing Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra. December 2, 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8739377/   National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Aromatherapy. January 2020. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aromatherapy   Mental Health Association of Delaware. The Benefits of Aromatherapy. June 7, 2021. https://www.mhainde.org/the-benefits-of-aromatherapy/   Effects of aromatherapy on depression: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Gen Hosp Psychiatry.  September - October, 2023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37619300/   University of Minnesota. Aromatherapy. https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/how-do-i-choose-and-use-essential-oils   Lippincott Nursing Center. Aromatherapy Use in the Hospital Setting: Considerations for Nurses. April 15, 2021. https://www.nursingcenter.com/ncblog/april-2021/aromatherapy-use-in-the-hospital-setting   Aromatherapy: Essential oils and nursing. American Nurse . August 9, 2021. https://www.myamericannurse.com/aromatherapy-essential-oils-and-nursing/

Dementia is a challenging condition that affects not only the individuals diagnosed but also their families and loved ones. We understand the complexities involved in managing the care of those with Dementia. One such vital tool is guardianship, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of individuals with Dementia. What is Guardianship? Guardianship is a legal process where a court appoints a person (the guardian) to make decisions on behalf of another person (the ward) who is unable to make decisions for themselves due to incapacity, such as Dementia. This arrangement ensures that the ward's personal, financial, and medical needs are met in a manner that prioritizes their well-being and dignity. How Guardianship Benefits Individuals with Dementia 1.  Ensuring Safety and Well-Being   Guardianship provides a structured framework for making essential decisions about the care and safety of individuals living with Dementia. Guardians are empowered to make decisions that protect the ward from harm, ensuring they receive appropriate medical care, live in a safe environment, and have their day-to-day needs met. 2. Financial Oversight   Managing finances can be particularly challenging for individuals with Dementia. Guardianship ensures that their financial resources are managed prudently and ethically. Guardians oversee bank accounts, pay bills, manage investments, and ensure that the ward’s financial assets are used in their best interest. 3.  Advocacy and Decision-Making   Guardians act as advocates for individuals with Dementia, ensuring their preferences and best interests are considered in all decisions. Whether it’s healthcare choices, living arrangements, or legal matters, guardians are there to make informed decisions that reflect the ward’s wishes and needs. 4.  Relieving Family Stress   Dementia can place immense stress on family members who may struggle to make difficult decisions or manage care responsibilities. Guardianship provides families with peace of mind, knowing that a professional is dedicated to their loved one’s well-being. This allows family members to focus on maintaining a loving relationship rather than being overwhelmed by caregiving duties. Guardianship is a vital tool in the care of individuals with Dementia, offering a structured and compassionate approach to managing their needs. Together, we can ensure that your loved ones receive the support they need to shape a better tomorrow. Authors' opinions are not necessarily those of the Dementia Society, Inc. We do not endorse nor guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of the content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org Contributing Author: The Good Shepherd Fund  is a 501(C)(3) National Non-Profit Fiduciary, dedicated to enhancing the lives of minors, aging adults and persons with disabilities. With over 50 years of compassionate service, we provide professional trust administration, and other support services tailored to client needs. We care for our clients with the same love and kindness you’d expect from a family member or friend, ensuring that you and your loved ones receive the support needed to shape a better tomorrow.