When we talk about the "C-word" (cancer), or the "D-word" (Dementia), it often seems difficult to include the concept of HOPE within our conversations. Both conditions, while very different, take a similarly tremendous physical and mental toll, both on the individual and the family. Yet, the psychological benefits of hope can go a long way. Hope can improve our mood, outlook, and the way we partner with a person living with Dementia. The Benefits of Hope Extend Beyond Dementia According to a 2010 study, the same is true for cancer patients. In the study , women with breast cancer demonstrated that hope is an essential factor for coping and reducing the psychological distress of cancer treatment. The research shows that lower levels of hope were tied to the patient’s lower satisfaction with life. It also showed that hope intervenes and reconciles the relationship between distress and health status. In other words, the association between anxiety and disease was no longer as significant with hope at their side. Hope created an opportunity to look at the situation through a more hopeful lens, in the same way in which we talk about a glass of water being half full or half empty. It all depends on you. Having hope at your side is extremely valuable when dealing with Dementia, as well. As advocates and educators, we are poised to help individuals, families, and medical professionals become “Dementia-aware.” In doing so, these newly educated advocates can provide the kind of compassionate and fulfilling care a person living with Dementia needs and caregiver desires. As we become more Dementia-aware, we experience more reasons for hope and find that nuggets of inspiration are all around us if we look. When we present our talks and workshops across the country, there's no need to hammer the point that Dementia is stubborn and progressive. We get that. But instead, we focus on the simple steps that each of us can aspire to ascend: we can rise to the occasion; we can change our outlook; we can alter our perspective to discover the smallest day-to-day accomplishments ... and therefore, celebrate! When we do, we might just experience the joy and happiness that we had lacked in our journey up until that moment. That’s the goal: unlocking our abilities to make meaningful connections and uplifting moments, by approaching Dementia in a new light. As we do, we can discover the power of hope: greater hope within ourselves and create new hope with others! Contributors: Laura Wayman , “The Dementia Whisperer,” an internationally recognized Dementia care expert who offers professional caregiver training services to providers and families, along with Kevin Jameson, DrHC . Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

The concept of keeping a gratitude journal has gained attention as a focal point for brain writings and research. Forbes published an article within recent years that explored the value of keeping a gratitude journal. Something happens neurologically when we reflect on our choices, relationships, and special events in our lives. Actively reflecting starts to hardwire neurological changes in the brain. If you’re constantly focusing on emotions that make you fearful, angry and resentful, they eventually get hardwired into your brain. The opposite outcome holds true for gratitude. Research has found that keeping a gratitude journal can help pull you out of negative patterns and start you on a course that leads to positive thoughts and actions. Gratitude journals have been shown to be even more effective than simply focusing on having positive thoughts in your day. The Benefits of Being Grateful Keeping a gratitude journal has many different benefits: One of the biggest improvements comes with the ability to open up new relationships, or to communicate better in your current relationships. Reflecting and being grateful for the people that help you in life expands your empathy, and empathy is one of the cornerstones of healthy relationships. It also improves physical health. Research, published in 2012 in the Journal of Personality and Individual Differences, found that people stuck in negative emotional patterns feel pain more intensely than people who practice gratitude and positive thinking on a daily basis. Keeping a gratitude journal also helps people manage depression and feelings of aggression. A study published by the Journal of Applied Psychology found that people who wrote in a gratitude journal for 15 minutes at night before going to bed experienced better quality of sleep on a regular basis. It also has a positive impact on self-esteem. Sitting down to reflect on what you’ve accomplished and what you’re grateful for ingrains the value of the experience in your memory. This also helps to reduce social comparisons, because focusing on what you appreciate about yourself impedes the negative impulse to judge others. Gratitude journaling has also been shown to be a therapeutic tool that can help people deal with conditions like PTSD and other stress-related disorders. It costs little more than a cheap composition notebook or simply maintaining a special file on your computer’s hard drive. I think you’ll find if you take the time to reflect on your life and the things you’re grateful for, results will be nothing short of amazing. Contributor: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Paper may seem innocuous. It arrives at our homes daily in the form of mail, magazines, and newspapers, and it piles up often in a haphazard manner. We usually don’t give it too much thought. But for many people, especially seniors, and those living with Dementia (or as a caregiver), bills and personal papers can lead to identity theft and fraud. The best practice for managing monthly bills is to shred all documents that contain personal information. It is recommended that documents be shredded because thieves have gone so far as to steal garbage to obtain innocent victims’ personal financial information. Many banks and community service organizations offer a free "shredding day," and it's worth picking up a couple of file boxes, worst case, once or twice a year, if you don't yet have or can't afford a personal/home shredder. So, if you are receiving monthly bills in the mail, they should be shredded after paying them, or as soon as possible. Documents that are necessary for tax or other important purposes should be maintained for a period of time specified by your lawyer and accountant. However, such documents should be kept in a small locked, waterproof, fireproof filing cabinet so they can only be accessed by authorized parties. In February 2016, the New York Times published an article about a scam artist who was able to steal many tens of thousands of dollars from a victim, simply by stealing a check that the victim had placed in the mailbox. Once the criminal stole the check, he was able to empty significant amounts of funds from the victim’s account, because he had the bank’s routing number and the account number. This incident highlights another opportunity for criminal activity based on unsecured documents: mail theft. If you or a loved one are not using online bill paying, consider mailing checks in a secure U.S. Post Office mailbox rather than leaving the envelopes to be picked up in a personal mailbox attached to the house, apartment, or out at the end of your driveway. Paying the Bills Safely If you need assistance with bill paying, consider using a service. There are a number of services available throughout the country like the one I founded called, SilverBills. We receive, scrutinize, and ensure that your bills are paid accurately and on time. You no longer need to open envelopes, write checks or remember deadlines. Once enrolled in this type of service, you will likely receive a lot less paper in the mail and that will further decrease the potential for theft and fraud. A last reminder: securely keep, and don't shred important paper documents like your social security card (which is not really a card - it's more like a piece of thick paper), certain tax, financial, legal, insurance, and healthcare documents. Shredding is pretty permanent, so if ever in doubt, ask your attorney, insurance agent, banker, or financial professional before shredding. Contributor: Marci Lobel-Esrig founded SilverBills after witnessing the challenges faced by her elderly relative paying bills on time and correctly. Marci has been a practicing attorney for more than 20 years. Marci received her J.D. from New York University School of Law and her B.A. degree Magna Cum Laude from Columbia College, Columbia University. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Music is incredibly important for enhancing brain development. Numerous sources, including Time Magazine, have published articles extolling the value of learning to play an instrument, and how it can improve academic achievement, among other cognitive skills. The key is actively engaging in the instrument. When we look at our ability to excel at mathematics and develop psychomotor skills and manual dexterity, people who play music are simply better at these things than people who don’t. The Benefits of Learning to Play An Instrument Learning to play involves learning to read music, which is highly analytical and mathematical in nature. Playing the instrument involves motor neurons and many areas of the brain in the process as you learn to perform smoothly. Remembering the song, the arrangements, and the changes in tempo also tap into memory and cognitive ability. There are also ‘brain balancing’ benefits through right-brain, left-brain stimulation. Playing music (or, even singing) with other people or in a band also improves interpersonal skills and team building. A professional drummer, after having participated in a brain training program here in 2014, signed a contract with a major country music band because his drumming skills had so dramatically improved. His improved mathematical skills, focus, and attention, as well as his improved ability to use his left (non-dominant) hand, allowed him to follow his dream. The benefits of music also extend to perseverance; sticking to something worthwhile over time. Coordination, reading and comprehension skills, stress relief, and responsibility (i.e. taking care of your instruments) are all-powerful ‘side-effects’ of playing music. Self-expression can also be improved. There is some that struggle with their ability to communicate through words, and music can be their vehicle for communication. Some woodwind and brass instruments will help improve your breathing and oxygen levels. Even if you’ve never played an instrument before, it’s never too late to learn. Contributor Author: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For additional information, and to learn more, please visit our Author's page. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

On the surface, the idea of making your bed might seem mundane. However, there are significant benefits to making your bed each morning. Many successful organizations, including the military and Psychology Today, have looked at the benefits that making your bed has for the brain. It’s something that a lot of people often leave behind. You wake up, the room is dark, you take a quick shower, and go about your day. Then you come home at night and you see a big pile of blankets and sheets right in the middle of the bed and you accept that it still needs to be made. Sometimes it can even be a little bit stressful to not have your bed made when all you want to do is go to sleep. The Benefits of Making Your Bed There is mounting evidence to support the fact that making the bed in the morning contributes towards making a person happier and more successful. A recent online survey of 68,000 people, which is a fairly substantial base of people, found that 59% of people don’t make their beds and 27% do. The remaining 12% were people that have someone else, like a housekeeper, make their bed for them. They also found that 71% of the bedmakers consider themselves to be generally happy with their lives. 62% of non-bed makers admitted to being generally unhappy. Of course, these results can vary by the life circumstances of the individual. It can extend to their job satisfaction, owning a home, exercising regularly, proper diet, feeling well-rested. These things are all associated with people that fix their beds every day. There is a basis behind fixing your bed each morning. What happens is you wake up and right away you’re training your brain to do a task and attend to an activity that makes you feel good. As a result, you start your day with a sense of accomplishment. This sets the tone for the rest of your day and carries over to completing other tasks. It is the start of the snowball effect that encourages you to keep a proactive attitude throughout the rest of your day. When you stop and think about it, it only takes a couple of minutes in the morning to stop and make your bed. Start developing the habit, stick with it, and see what happens. I guarantee it will help to start your day off on the right foot because it’s the little things that make a difference. Contributor Author: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For additional information, and to learn more, please visit our Author's page. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Family caregivers often feel stressed, exhausted, anxious, sad, angry, and sometimes hostile. However, caring for a person who has Dementia does more than affect behavior. According to psychiatrist Dr. Linda Mah and colleagues, unrelenting stress and anxiety compromises health as well as contributes to increased risk for depression and Dementia. Many of their findings are sobering. Their discovery that unrelenting anxiety and stress damages areas of the brain that regulate emotional responses, thinking, and memory, is particularly relevant. They conclude that some treatments relieving depression may aid in repairing the damage created by caregiving stresses. But don't let Dr. Mah’s findings be another reason to cause worry in your already stress-filled life. Having risk factors does not mean you are predestined to develop Dementia. Risk factors do not cause the disease; risk factors increase the probability of (someday) having the disease. There are many reasons why it is important for family caregivers to get relief from the months and years of doing more than their abilities, circumstances, and resources would normally withstand. Reduce the Stress Caregivers have several options available to them in order to reduce their stress. One of them is to look closely at their own behavior. Some family caregivers feel they are the only person who can give their loved one the proper care. Usually, this is not true. Often family members and friends can step up as good substitute caregivers and will volunteer to help if the primary caregiver appears interested or receptive. In addition to family and friends, community and faith-based organizations provide affordable respite care. Local nonprofit support groups, as well as the U.S. Administration on Aging, are examples of community resources. The Catholic Charities and Jewish Family Service are examples of faith-based, nonprofit organizations that, regardless of ethnicity or religion, can give the primary caregiver time away from his or her full-time care commitment. Adult daycare is another possibility. Located in community senior centers, nursing homes, churches, synagogues, hospitals, and schools, adult daycare provides stimulation and companionship for seniors who need medical assistance and other kinds of supervision. Usually open during business hours, adult daycare centers give the family caregiver time to go to work, to attend to personal business, or to relax while knowing their loved one is safe. Family caregivers use respite time in different ways. Some sleep, while others go shopping, spend time with friends, read, walk, or take time to participate in a favorite hobby or sport. Make an effort to set aside time for a daily 15- to 30-minute break for an enjoyable physical activity such as walking. Good times to grab these important moments are when your loved one is asleep, is in the doctor’s office, or when a friend or relative pays a visit Schedule longer respite breaks for the same time each week. Plan ahead so you will know how you will spend that precious time. That way, even on a difficult day you will always have something to look forward to doing. But whatever you decide, make respite a priority before feelings of exhaustion, isolation, and resentment take over. Content Contributor: Janet Yagoda Shagam, Ph.D., is a freelance medical and science writer and the author of " An Unintended Journey: A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia.", available through Amazon. Please visit our Author's page to learn more and find this title. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Late-stage Dementia can create an inability to retell specific personal and family histories. Dementia might make long-held treasured memories slow and difficult to retrieve or morph into something different from how you remember them. Research shows that people who have a terminal illness desire opportunities to give as well as to receive. Compiling a family's history through recordings and other activities is a gift the person with Dementia can provide to their family. Preserving Family History in the Context of Memory Loss Together, family members and their loved-one can explore the treasure trove of stored photographs and other memorabilia. With or without the assistance of a professional videographer, audio and video recordings give another perspective on the people and events that molded your loved one's life and perhaps influenced yours as well. Before getting started, it is essential to consider the permanence and availability of electronically stored photographs and audio and video recordings. Floppy discs and hard discs have been obsolete for many years. Compact discs (CDs) and hard drives are quickly becoming phased out - and there is no reason to assume that cloud computing will last forever. Probably the best solution, in addition to electronic storage, is to make hard (paper) copies of photographs, scanned memorabilia, and transcripts of audio recordings. With the help of online self-publishing services, you can design a beautiful book that contains selected images, transcripts, and commentary. Some ideas: 1. Video record your loved one as they tour their home or another meaningful location. Ask "tell me about questions" to get the stories associated with framed photographs, a chipped and repaired vase, or a lovely rose garden. Encourage further discussion by asking logical follow-up questions. And above all – listen!! 2. Record your loved one as they recall various events, such as a fascinating fishing trip, birth, or having fought in the Vietnam War. 3. Create a memory box containing small objects plus a few sentences describing each item's significance. Have your loved one write memory "tweets" on slips of paper. Memory Tweets might be like, "Make my steaks medium rare and my eggs over-easy, "or "I remember the day you were born. The sun was shining, and I was the happiest person alive." Implementing these tips can help preserve family history in the context of memory loss in Dementia. Notes: 1. KE Steinhauser, et al. "In Search of a Good Death: Observations of Patients, Families, and Providers," https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12497721_In_Search_of_a_Good_Death_Observations_of_Patients_Families_and_Providers (accessed May 2, 2016) Content Contributor: Janet Yagoda Shagam, Ph.D., is a freelance medical and science writer and the author of " An Unintended Journey: A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia.", available through Amazon. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

For most of us, we are busy with our daily lives engulfed with family activities, work, education, and all the things that consume our time. We never give it a thought and often take for granted how our senses keep us connected with our world. As we age there are changes confronting us in the realm of our health and quality of life. These changes are age-related and present a disability to be addressed and remedied. Most of these are hearing, vision, speaking, various motor skills, and cognition. Hearing loss is estimated to affect some 39 to 50 million Americans. Research has indicated that almost three out of every four individuals age 80 and above will have at least one disability to deal with. Most often, hearing loss is most common. Dr. Frank R. Lin, MD of Johns Hopkins University has been one of the leading researchers over the past ten years to make the connection with untreated hearing loss being a provocateur in the area of Dementia. Our loved ones and senior friends impacted with hearing loss and some type of Dementia are especially at risk for decreased quality of life. Often these people require special care in a licensed facility with a professional medical staff 24/7. Testing Your Hearing Ideally, I recommend to every one of my patients to have a complete audiological evaluation on an annual basis. Following this guideline as an associated part of having an annual physical by their family physician, enables the audiologist to detect and monitor adverse changes in hearing acuity, abnormalities, and other medical issues to be addressed. This evaluation provides the baseline and documentation on future tests that help the patient later in life. The protocol includes, but is not limited to case history, otoscopic inspection, pure tone (air & bone) audiometry, speech audiometry, tone decay, tympanometry, acoustic stapedial reflexes, and distortion product otoacoustic emissions testing. One avenue where this documentation will be critical is in handling hearing health care for those requiring amplification and knowing what the previous status was for Dementia-affected patients. For the reader of this article, you would undoubtedly be able to participate in and complete an audiological evaluation administered by an audiologist. For a person with advancing Dementia, in a facility such as a nursing home or special care unit, it may be that up to 95% cannot complete or tolerate the standard evaluation. Even though Congress in 1987 mandated a Minimum Data Set for a required evaluation of incoming residents to a facility, it does not guarantee a successful finding, in hearing, comprehending speech, and producing language. For those people with mid to later stages of Dementia, alterations in testing protocol could be required. Behavioral tests are mostly eliminated from the battery. There are many considerations in handling hearing loss, amplification, and proper examination and assessment for the person with Dementia. Since much of the protocol below is rather scientific-sounding and not easily expressed in lay terms, please print out this blog post and/or bring the information to your doctor to get the process underway. A suggested hearing test protocol may include: Case history – Since the patient may not be able to provide complete and accurate information, a family member or friend should be queried. This step will require a review of previous audiologic studies. Otoscopic inspection – The audiologist will utilize an otoscope to examine the outer ear canals and visually assess for any apparent abnormalities. Audiometry for pure tone and speech stimuli – This component requires participation by the patient and tests reliability in subjective responses. There will be some that may not tolerate the headset or canal inserts nor provide reliable information. Research has shown that only 5% may be able to complete this step. Tympanometry and acoustic stapedial reflexes; impedance testing – This assessment will show whether a perforation, abnormal middle ear pressure or fluid is present and requiring otologic intervention. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) testing – This is a truly objective test to determine the status of the outer hair cells of the cochlea. Normal responses are seen in threshold levels up to 35 dBHL. The frequency range of DPOAE is 1500 to 6000 Hz. Amplification check – The doctor of audiology will clean, check, repair as needed, readjust, and refit the patient’s amplification if they are a current wearer. If replacement is indicated, this will be noted. As for a new fitting to a patient who has not previously been fitted, it will not be advised due to issues involving the reliability of the assessment and tolerance of fitting. If you wish to explore this subject further, please contact a board-certified & licensed private practice doctor of audiology today. Hearing loss, once addressed, may result in a much richer and more meaningful quality of life for all those affected! Contributing Author: Dr. Patrick M. Murphy, Au.D., M.Ed., CCC-A, FAAA http://www.murphyhearingservices.com/ Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is thought to be the most common kind of Dementia. Researchers estimate that as many as 5.4 million people living in the United States have this type of Dementia.¹ Whereas, when you combine all forms of Dementia together, it is estimated to affect 9 million or more people in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer's Disease is the fifth most frequent cause of death for adults aged 65 years and older.² Further, in high-economic countries³ like the U.S. and Canada, when considering the larger domain - that includes all types of Dementia - Dementia is thought to rank even higher as the third leading cause of death, behind heart disease as number 1 and stroke as number 2. While it is hard to say what actually causes Alzheimer's Disease, we do know the deposition and accumulation of fibrous proteins accompanies irreversible brain damage. It is thought that these insoluble proteins form β-amyloid plaques that disrupt brain architecture alter how brain cells use energy and promote cell death. The second hallmark of AD, also seen by Dr. Alois Alzheimer over 100 years ago under a microscope, is the neurofibrillary tangles of dead and dying neurons seemingly connected to Tau, another type of protein. That's why medical professionals will often speak of the "plaques and tangles" of AD. The result is a slow and progressive decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Eventually, people lose the ability to swallow and breathe in a coordinated fashion. Even in the absence of other catastrophic diseases such as kidney failure and cancer, Alzheimer's Disease is a terminal illness. Alzheimer's Disease comprises a spectrum rather than a defined set of signs and symptoms. Slow progression, rather than a sudden change, is often the key to differentiating Alzheimer's behaviors from those associated with other kinds of Dementia. Life expectancy after an Alzheimer's diagnosis can be anywhere from four to 20 years. People who have Dementia often die from other causes such as cancer, kidney failure, and cardiovascular disease. The Alzheimer's Association lists the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's Disease – the first of which is memory loss. After reading the list you might think, How are these behaviors different from what everybody does at one time or another? The difference is the frequency and the ability to make self-corrections. Healthcare providers often use staging to describe the progression and severity of diseases such as cancer, kidney failure, and Dementia. The following staging criteria will help you understand your loved one’s condition and plan for future caregiving needs. Mild or Early-stage Alzheimer's Disease In this first stage, people experience memory loss, difficulty remembering newly learned information, and have trouble completing complex tasks such as planning a family event. Personality changes such as uncharacteristic anger and increasing difficulty in finding the right words, getting lost, or misplacing items are other common signs. With help, your parent, spouse, or sibling may still be capable of independent living. Moderate or Mid-stage Alzheimer's Disease During this phase, people may confuse family members with close friends, forget personal history details such as where they went to school or where they were born, and need help with dressing and personal hygiene. Some people may become restless, suspicious of others, and confrontational. At this stage, your relative will need close supervision and assistance during the day and perhaps a caregiver during the night. Severe or Late-stage Alzheimer's Disease In the course of this last stage, people who have Dementia lose the ability to speak coherently, need help with eating, dressing, using the bathroom, and walking. Eventually, Late-stage Alzheimer's patients lose the ability to swallow and control their bladder and bowels. During this final stage, your loved one will need 24-hour care, either at home or in a Dementia care facility. References: 1. 2017 Facts and Figures: Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, Download source here: 2017 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. (accessed September 18, 2017). 2. ibid 3. 2017 World Health Organization Factsheet Download source here: 2017 World Health Organization Factsheet. Content Contributor: Janet Yagoda Shagam, Ph.D., is a freelance medical and science writer and the author of "An Unintended Journey: A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia.", available through Amazon. Please visit our Author's page to learn more and find this title. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Did you know that moving your body in slow, thoughtful ways can make your brain healthier? It’s true! Activities like yoga, tai chi, and other meditative exercises help you stretch, relax, and boost your brainpower. Let’s examine how these special movements can help your mind feel calmer, sharper, and more focused. What Are Meditative Exercises? Meditative exercises are gentle activities that combine movement, breathing, and focus. You might have heard of some of them: Yoga is a mix of stretching, balance, and deep breathing. Tai Chi is a slow-moving martial art that looks like a dance. Qi Gong is another ancient practice that uses breathing, movement, and meditation. Mindfulness is sitting quietly and paying attention to your thoughts and breath. All of these activities help your body feel strong and relaxed. But even more, they help your brain work better, too. How Do These Activities Help Your Brain? Our brains are like muscles—they need exercise, rest, and good fuel. Yoga, tai chi, and similar exercises give your brain all three. Less Stress, More Calm When we feel worried or upset, our brain releases stress chemicals like cortisol. A little stress is okay, but too much can make it hard to think clearly. Meditative movement helps lower those stress chemicals. It also tells the brain to release “feel-good” chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. That’s why you feel more relaxed after yoga or tai chi. Better Focus and Memory When you practice slow, mindful movement, you train your brain to pay attention. You learn to focus on your breath, body, and feelings. Over time, this can help improve your memory and make it easier to concentrate, whether studying for a test or playing sports. Stronger Brain Connections Scientists have used brain scans to study people who do yoga and tai chi. They found that these people had stronger connections in brain parts that control memory, attention, and emotions. This finding means their brains were “talking” better between different areas, like having faster Wi-Fi in your head. Improved Sleep Getting enough sleep is super important for brain health. Yoga and mindfulness can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply, giving your brain more time to rest and grow. What Does Science Say? Many scientists have studied how yoga, tai chi, and meditation affect the brain. Here are some cool facts: People who practice yoga regularly show more brain activity in areas related to attention and decision-making. A study found that older adults who did tai chi for 12 weeks had better memory and felt less tired. Kids who practiced mindfulness in school showed better focus, less stress, and even did better in their classes. Even a little practice—10 to 15 minutes daily—can make a big difference. Who Can Try These Exercises? The best part? Anyone can do them! You don’t need to be super flexible or have fancy clothes. These activities can be done by: Kids and teens Adults and older people People with disabilities or injuries There are even special classes made just for beginners. And many of them are free online. How to Get Started Ready to try it out? Here are some easy ways that the Dementia Society of America® suggests to begin: Look up a beginner yoga or tai chi video on YouTube. Try a guided meditation app like Calm or Headspace. Practice mindful breathing: Close your eyes, breathe in slowly, and count to four. Then, breathe out and count to four again. Ask your school or local community center if they offer yoga or meditation classes. You don’t have to do everything at once. Five minutes of quiet breathing or stretching can help your brain feel better. Final Thoughts: A Healthy Brain for Life Taking care of your brain isn’t just about doing puzzles or eating healthy food. Moving your body in mindful, gentle ways helps too. Yoga, tai chi, and meditation are fun and powerful tools that help your mind stay calm, focused, and happy. So the next time you feel stressed or tired, take a deep breath, stretch your arms, and move slowly. Your brain will thank you! Author: AI-Assisted Human-Edited Staff Writer Additional Reading: Streeter, C. C., et al. (2012). Meditative Movement Reduces Stress and Boosts Mood. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(11), 1145–1152. Pascoe, M. C., Thompson, D. R., & Ski, C. F. (2017). Yoga, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and stress-related physiological measures: A meta-analysis. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 86, 152–168. Tang, Y. Y., Ma, Y., Wang, J., et al. (2007). Short-term meditation training improves attention and self-regulation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 104(43), 17152–17156. Gothe, N. P., Pontifex, M. B., Hillman, C. H., & McAuley, E. (2013). The acute effects of yoga on executive function. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 10(4), 488–495. Villemure, C., & Bushnell, M. C. (2012). Yoga-based interventions decrease pain and increase gray matter density in brain regions involved in pain modulation. The Journal of Neuroscience, 32(15), 5242–5248. Gard, T., Hölzel, B. K., & Lazar, S. W. (2014). The potential effects of meditation on age-related cognitive decline: A systematic review. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1307(1), 89–103. Wayne, P. M., Walsh, J. N., Taylor-Piliae, R. E., et al. (2014). Effect of tai chi on cognitive performance in older adults: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 62(1), 25–39. Lam, L. C. W., Chau, R. C. M., Wong, B. M. L., et al. (2012). A 1-year randomized controlled trial comparing mind-body exercise (Tai Chi) with stretching and toning exercise on cognitive function in older Chinese adults at risk of cognitive decline. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 13(6), 568.e15–568.e20. Zenner, C., Herrnleben-Kurz, S., & Walach, H. (2014). Mindfulness-based interventions in schools—a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 603. Flook, L., Smalley, S. L., Kitil, M. J., et al. (2010). Effects of mindful awareness practices on executive functions in elementary school children. Journal of Applied School Psychology, 26(1), 70–95. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Most people know that it's essential to take care of their heart. But did you know that your heart and brain are closely connected? When your heart is strong and healthy, your brain works better too. Scientists are learning more and more about how caring for your heart helps your memory, focus, and mood. Let's explore the powerful connection between heart health and brain health! What Is Cardiovascular Health? Your cardiovascular system includes your heart, blood, and blood vessels. It moves oxygen and nutrients through your body and removes waste. Your heart pumps blood to every body part—including your brain! So, if your heart and blood vessels aren't working well, your brain might not get enough oxygen and nutrients to do its job. How a Healthy Heart Helps the Brain Your brain needs a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood to stay healthy. The heart makes this possible. If your heart pumps strongly, blood flows more easily to your brain. But when your heart or blood vessels are unhealthy, like when someone has high blood pressure or clogged arteries, it gets harder for blood to reach the brain. Over time, this can lead to problems like memory loss, confusion, or even diseases causing Dementia. What Can Hurt Your Heart (and Brain)? Certain habits and conditions make the heart work harder or wear it out. These include: High blood pressure High cholesterol Smoking Obesity Lack of exercise Eating lots of sugar, salt, and processed foods All of these can damage blood vessels and make it harder for blood to reach the brain, causing parts of the brain to slow down or shrink. What Can Help Both Your Heart and Brain? The good news is that many things that keep your heart healthy also help your brain stay sharp. The Dementia Society of America® recommends some easy ways to care for both: Eat Brain-Healthy Foods. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and fish are great for your heart and brain. Try to eat colorful foods and limit fast food, soda, and processed snacks. Move Your Body. Exercise strengthens the heart and increases blood flow to the brain. Walking, biking, dancing, and playing outside are all fun ways to get moving. Get Enough Sleep. Your brain uses sleep to rest and repair. Kids and teens need about 8–10 hours of sleep each night. Reduce Stress. Stress can raise blood pressure and hurt your heart. Try relaxing activities like deep breathing, drawing, or spending time with friends and family. Don't Smoke. Smoking hurts both your heart and brain. If you don't smoke, don't start. If you do, talk to someone about how to quit. What Does Science Say? Scientists have conducted many studies to explore the link between the heart and brain. They've learned that people who care for their hearts—by eating well, moving more, and not smoking—have better brain health as they age. One long-term study found that people with healthy hearts in their 20s had better memory and thinking skills in their 50s! That shows how important it is to start healthy habits early in life. Brain Diseases Linked to Poor Heart Health When the brain doesn't get enough blood, it can lead to serious problems. Some of these include: Stroke: Happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Vascular Dementia: Caused by damage to blood vessels in the brain. Alzheimer's disease: Linked to changes in blood flow and brain cells. Caring for your heart may help lower your risk of these brain diseases. Final Thoughts: One Body, One System Your heart and brain work as a team. What helps one usually helps the other. So, when you care for your heart, you also give your brain the best chance to stay strong for life. It's never too early to start! Small steps like choosing water instead of soda, walking instead of riding, and going to bed on time can make a big difference. Your heart—and your brain—will thank you! Author: AI-Assisted Human-Edited Staff Writer Additional Reading: Gorelick, P. B., et al. (2011). Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and Dementia: A statement for healthcare professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke, 42(9), 2672–2713. Lamar, M., & Resnick, S. M. (2004). Aging and vascular health: The impact on neurocognitive function. Geriatrics, 59(5), 19–24. Williamson, J. D., et al. (2019). Effect of intensive vs standard blood pressure control on probable Dementia: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 321(6), 553–561. Yaffe, K., et al. (2014).Cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive decline in elderly persons: A review of the literature. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 62(5), 945–952. Ngandu, T., et al. (2015). A 2-year multidomain intervention of diet, exercise, cognitive training, and vascular risk monitoring versus control to prevent cognitive decline in at-risk elderly people (FINGER): A randomized controlled trial. The Lancet, 385(9984), 2255–2263. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

As people age, staying socially connected becomes more critical than ever. Friendships and relationships help keep us happy and healthy and protect our brains from aging. But sometimes, life gets busy, and meeting new people or staying in touch with old friends can feel more challenging. Luckily, simple ways exist to make and keep strong relationships at any age. Why Are Social Connections Important? Having good relationships is more than just fun—it’s good for your health! Studies show that people who stay socially connected: Live longer – Friendships can reduce stress and boost happiness. Feel happier – Spending time with others helps fight loneliness and depression. Stay mentally sharp – Talking with friends and family can keep your brain active and lower the risk of memory problems. How to Make and Keep Strong Relationships Building friendships and staying socially active doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some easy ways that the Dementia Society of America® recommends to stay connected: Keep in Touch with Old Friends Life gets busy, but staying connected with old friends is worth it. Make a habit of calling or texting friends – A quick “How are you?” can keep a friendship strong. Plan small get-togethers – A coffee date, lunch, or a simple walk together helps maintain bonds. Send a message or letter – A handwritten note can brighten someone’s day! Join a Club or Group One of the best ways to meet new people is by joining activities you enjoy. Try a book club – Talking about books is a great way to start conversations. Join a music or art class – Shared hobbies help build friendships. Be part of a sports team – Even casual games like pickleball or bowling can help you meet new friends. Volunteer in Your Community Helping others is a great way to meet kind, like-minded people. Help at a local shelter or food bank – Volunteering allows you to work with others. Read to kids at a library – Schools and libraries often need volunteers. Join an animal rescue group – If you love pets, this is a fun way to connect with others. Use Technology to Stay Connected Even if friends and family live far away, technology makes it easy to stay in touch. Use video calls – Apps like Zoom and FaceTime help you see loved ones even when you can’t be in person. Join social media groups – Facebook, WhatsApp, and online forums help people with similar interests connect. Try online games – Games like chess, trivia, or word puzzles can be played with friends online. Be Open to Meeting New People Making friends doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple smile or greeting can lead to new connections! Say hello to neighbors – Small chats can grow into strong friendships. Ask people about their interests – Most people enjoy discussing things they love. Be a good listener – Showing interest in others helps build strong relationships. Conclusion Staying socially connected is one of the best things you can do for your happiness and health. Small efforts can make a big difference, whether keeping in touch with old friends, meeting new people, or using technology to stay connected. Relationships take time and effort, but they are worth it because friends and connections make life more enjoyable at any age! Author: AI-Assisted Human-Edited Staff Writer Additional Reading: Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-Analytic Review. PLOS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316 National Institute on Aging (NIA). Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Health in Older Adults. https://www.nia.nih.gov/ Harvard Study of Adult Development. The Secret to a Long and Happy Life: Strong Relationships. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions. https://www.cdc.gov/ Wilson, R. S., Boyle, P. A., James, B. D., et al. (2007). Social Interaction and Cognitive Decline in Old Age. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society, 13(2), 195-202. DOI: 10.1017/S1355617707070223 American Psychological Association (APA). How to Stay Socially Connected and Why It Matters. https://www.apa.org/ World Health Organization (WHO). Healthy Aging and the Importance of Social Connection. https://www.who.int/ Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.