The doctor told me that, “Dementia is the description for the changes we have all noticed.” These are sobering words are ones that elicit conversation between loved ones. The location could be an office where a counselor facilitates productive discussion. Or perhaps the best place is an informal one where coffee and cake create an atmosphere of comfort and connectedness. It’s hard to know where to begin. Some find it easiest to let the conversation gradually drift from the weather to the emotional and practical aspects of Dementia. Others prefer having the help of a counselor to guide productive exchange. People in the early stages of Dementia may be the ones who initiate the discussion. He or she may start by addressing their fears about what they face and their distress about becoming a burden. He or she may have words to say about choosing the person who they hope will oversee their care, as well as express the desire that Dementia does not create ill will between family members. His or her thoughts about end-of-life care are another important topic. Here, listening may be more important than discussion. Listen to what he or she has to say about advance directives, comfort (palliative) care, and hospice--the last stage of palliative care. Conversation among loved ones will undoubtedly include more immediate wishes such as enjoying time together, taking bucket-list adventures, and tackling the “things I have always wanted to do” list. This is the time to create memories. Sometimes families and same-sex couple and their families do not have the luxury of beginning a conversation with a diagnosis of early-stage Dementia. When this is the case, your loved one may still be able to listen and perhaps make comments. Be sure to acknowledge their presence and, as much as possible, engage them in the discussion. Keep the Conversation Going Speaking with and among loved ones is an ongoing process. Events occur that require reassessment. Family dynamics may have deteriorated and should be addressed before they worsen. It may be time to talk about the conflicts between personal views about death and dying and your loved one’s advance directives. Or perhaps reassessment involves orchestrating a family gathering or a final adventure. It's so important to begin having the conversation early. 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.

"I cannot remember names or where I left the keys; people say I repeat myself and often seem confused. I must have Dementia." It’s easy to leap to conclusions, but considerably more difficult to speak to your doctor about your concerns. You fear that stepping into your doctor’s office all but guarantees a diagnosis of Dementia. However, a thorough medical exam may uncover other reasons, such as a bladder infection or medications that can explain why you are sometimes forgetful or confused. Again, don’t jump to conclusions if your doctor suggests that you undergo further tests. Pause, take a deep breath, and tell yourself that ruling out Dementia is not as easy as you may have assumed. At this point, your doctor may suggest that you get a second opinion from another physician or other kinds of healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating memory disorders. And remember, you don’t need your doctor’s permission to seek advice from other clinicians. A good doctor will welcome your efforts. Without question, what you are doing for yourself is scary. No, it’s worse than scary. It’s deep-down frightening. Take A Deep Breath. You don’t have to do this alone. A family member or a good friend can give the emotional support you need and, with your permission, can accompany you to your doctor appointments. In addition to the comfort of their presence, your family member or friend can be another set of ears (or your note-taker) as you, in all probability, will be overwhelmed by a deluge of information. Sometimes the news isn’t good. But before you occupy a permanent seat on the couch and wait for the inevitable, take a moment and take a deep breath. There are medications, as well as participation in activities such as dancing, yoga, and tai chi, that can slow the progression of Dementia. Keep in mind, there is a lot of good living ahead of you. Indulge, be active, do what gives you pleasure, and have good times with family and friends. Cherish the little things that enrich your life as well as the lives of others. This is a time to create memories. 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.

There are hundreds of different breathing exercises, each with different purposes and outcomes. However, there is a simple, foundational breathing exercise that you can do each day to help your brain work better. This is particularly helpful for people who are not getting enough oxygen to their brains. Decreased oxygen levels have a serious impact on the brain. When we breathe normally, we typically inhale and exhale at a 1:1 ratio, meaning for every second we breathe in, we breathe out for 1 second (e.g., 5 seconds in, 5 seconds out). When this happens, we’re not really holding the air in our lungs for a long time. This means there isn’t sufficient transfer of air to oxygen in the lungs, which limits the amount of oxygen in our bloodstream available to the brain. During this breathing exercise, you breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth. When doing this, make sure you’re sitting comfortably, or you could even be lying on your back. Don’t slouch, as you won’t be able to take in the maximum volume of air. You want to feel your abdomen rise and fall. The breathing rate for this exercise is 1-2. When you inhale, the breath should take around 4 to 5 seconds. Don’t hold your breath. Tighten your lips a little as you breathe out, which will slow it down to about 8 to 10 seconds. You could time this with a stopwatch or do it roughly by keeping track in your own mind. The key is to make sure that you’re breathing out longer than you’re breathing in. This exercise can increase oxygen levels in the bloodstream within 30 seconds to a minute after beginning. You can do this exercise throughout the day. Each time, try to do ten breaths. As you do this, you will start to effectively train your brain to take in the breath and hold it a little longer as you breathe out. This improves oxygen levels far better than just breathing. Oxygen Is The Secret! Breathing is something we need to do, so we should do it well. This is particularly important at certain times of the day when the brain may be low on energy. This exercise can help raise your energy levels without resorting to sugar, caffeine, or other stimulants. It's important to reinforce that in this particular exercise you don’t actually hold your breath! In fact, there might be some instances where someone has a medical problem where holding their breath could cause them to pass out. This exercise is about breathing in and immediately out. As your breathing becomes more efficient, you can begin to explore more advanced breathing techniques. Remember: oxygen is the secret! Contributor Author: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For more information, 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.

Dementia Society of America® Critical Wandering and Elopement Program | Copyrighted Looking for our GIFT CARD program? Scroll towards the bottom of this page. One of The Greatest Fears For families living with Dementia, one of the greatest fears is that a loved one may suddenly leave home or another safe environment without anyone noticing. This event, technically known as elopement, can happen in minutes and quickly become a life-threatening emergency. Whether someone is living with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body Dementia, vascular Dementia, frontotemporal Dementia, or another of the estimated 100 causes of Dementia, changes in memory, judgment, and orientation can increase the risk of becoming lost. The Dementia Society of America® created Operation KeepSafe® to help families prepare for these situations before they happen. The program emphasizes prevention, education, and rapid response. While not a location tracker, the Society encourages the use of wearable medical identification to help reconnect individuals with their loved ones as quickly and safely as possible. According to the Dementia Society, elopement occurs when a person leaves their caregiving environment unnoticed and may no longer understand where they are, where they live, or how to return safely. An adult living with Dementia who may be at risk for a critical wandering event while driving. Understanding Elopement and Critical Wandering Many people confuse wandering with elopement, but they are different. Wandering is a behavior. A person may safely and leisurely move about indoors or outdoors, pace through the house, or repeatedly go from room to room, search through drawers, or appear restless without a clear destination. However, wandering and rummaging are not necessarily seen as life-threatening and may be normal activities for many. Critical Wandering™ is a term the Society uses to describe a set of life-threatening actions that go beyond roaming, pacing, or rummaging and begin with elopement. Elopement is an event. It occurs when a person leaves a supervised setting without their caregiver's knowledge. Once outside familiar surroundings, confusion may quickly increase, making it difficult or impossible for the individual to find their way home. A person experiencing Dementia may not realize they are lost. They may sincerely believe they are going to work, returning to a childhood home, searching for a parent, or completing an important errand from decades earlier. Time and place can become disconnected from reality, making logical reasoning nearly impossible during the event. Why Elopement Is So Dangerous Elopement is not simply an inconvenience. It is a medical and public safety emergency. Once outside, individuals may face numerous hazards including: Traffic accidents Falls Exposure to extreme heat or cold Dehydration Drowning Medical emergencies Abuse or exploitation Death The longer someone remains missing, the greater these risks become. Every minute spent trying to identify the individual or locate family members is valuable time that cannot be recovered. Hidden Reasons People Leave Operation KeepSafe® reminds caregivers that people usually do not leave "for no reason." Instead, there are often hidden triggers that influence behavior. These include: Fear Frustration Physical needs Pain that may or may not be obvious A sense of purpose A promise they believe they must keep For example, someone may believe they need to pick up children from school, report to work, visit a spouse, or return home—even while standing inside the home where they have lived for years. Others may simply be searching for a bathroom or trying to escape frightening hallucinations or confusion. Recognizing these triggers allows caregivers to reduce risk before an elopement occurs. Preparation Saves Lives Operation KeepSafe® encourages families to prepare before an emergency happens. The program recommends reviewing home safety, restricting vehicle access, learning to recognize behavioral cues, involving neighbors and community members, developing a personal profile for first responders to use during a search, consulting healthcare professionals, and obtaining medical identification. These simple preparations can dramatically improve the speed and effectiveness of a search. The Importance of Medical Identification One of the easiest and most effective safety tools is a medical ID bracelet, necklace, wallet card, or wristband. Medical identification serves as a silent voice for someone who cannot explain who they are or where they belong. Imagine a police officer finding an older adult walking along a busy highway. The individual appears healthy but cannot remember their name or address. Without identification, officers may spend precious hours determining the person's identity while family members desperately search nearby neighborhoods. Now imagine the same situation when the individual is wearing a medical ID. Within moments, responders may be able to identify the person, contact an emergency phone number, recognize important medical conditions, and reunite the individual with family much more quickly. The emotional stress for everyone involved is significantly reduced. Medical identification is equally valuable during medical emergencies. If someone falls, becomes unconscious, experiences dehydration, or develops another medical problem, emergency personnel can immediately access information that may influence treatment decisions and help locate family members. Medical ID cannot prevent every emergency, but it can help responders make better, faster decisions when time matters most. Medical ID Is Also for Caregivers Many people assume medical identification is only for those living with Dementia. In reality, caregivers benefit as well. Family caregivers often spend long hours transporting loved ones, attending appointments, shopping, traveling, or participating in community events. If the caregiver experiences a heart attack, stroke, automobile accident, fall, or other sudden medical emergency, the person with Dementia may be left alone and unable to explain the situation. A caregiver wearing medical identification gives first responders immediate access to emergency contacts and important health information. This can speed communication with family members and help ensure that the individual living with Dementia is not left unattended or placed in unnecessary danger. Medical ID protects the entire circle of care, not just one individual. Helping Those Who Cannot Speak for Themselves As Dementia progresses, many individuals gradually lose the ability to communicate clearly. They may forget names, addresses, telephone numbers, or even their own identity. Others may struggle to understand questions from first responders or healthcare professionals. Medical identification speaks when the individual cannot. It provides a simple, immediate way to communicate essential information without requiring memory or conversation. This becomes especially important when someone is frightened, injured, experiencing hallucinations, or overwhelmed by unfamiliar surroundings. Building a Safer Community Operation KeepSafe® encourages families to involve neighbors, local police, 911 dispatch centers, friends, and other trusted community members before an emergency occurs. Sharing contact information and helping others understand the individual's habits and history can improve search efforts if an elopement happens. The program also recommends creating a profile that includes the person's name, important medical information, places where they previously lived or worked, and hobbies or interests, details that can help guide search-and-rescue teams. Prepared communities find missing individuals more quickly because they know what to look for and where to begin searching. Time Is Precious™ When someone living with Dementia disappears, every minute counts. Have a plan? Preparing family members, educating neighbors, and ensuring that both the individual living with Dementia and their caregiver wear medical identification can significantly improve the chances of a safe outcome. Medical identification is inexpensive, easy to wear, and available in many forms. Yet its value during an emergency can be immeasurable. It helps first responders identify individuals more quickly, expedite medical care, shorten searches, and reconnect loved ones when every second matters. Operation KeepSafe® reminds us that safety begins long before a crisis occurs. With thoughtful planning, community awareness, and the simple act of wearing a medical ID, families can reduce risk, improve emergency response, and gain greater peace of mind knowing they have taken an important step to protect the people they love. Dementia Society of America's Operation KeepSafe iD Gift Card - Artist Rendering The Dementia Society of America's Operation KeepSafe® program provides a wearable medical ID through a pre-funded $50 GIFT CARD (with spending restrictions). Please review these 10 medical ID program elements: One no-charge medical ID GIFT CARD is available for people living with impaired cognition (mild, moderate, or severe). One no-charge medical ID GIFT CARD is also available for their non-cognitively impaired carer/caregiver/care partner. The caregiver can request a medical ID GIFT CARD for themselves without having to request one for the person they care for. Apply to receive a medical ID GIFT CARD online, while program supplies last. We update the top of the application to reflect supply status with "AVAILABLE" or "UNAVAILABLE." Once it has been reviewed and approved, the Dementia Society will send you a set-limit pre-funded GIFT CARD. Along with your GIFT CARD, you will receive a pre-selected medical ID vendor. You can visit their website, select and order an ID product from their online catalog, and apply the value of a single CARD to it. If they offer phone support, you can order that way as well. Only one GIFT CARD per order may be used. If you are ordering a medical ID for both yourself and the person you care for, you must complete two separate GIFT CARD application forms. You must order the medical IDs separately, too. We provide one no-charge medical ID GIFT CARD per person in their lifetime. If you decide to spend more than the value on the GIFT CARD (including shipping/engraving), you must pay the difference. GIFT CARD expires in 3 months. Any remaining value is returned to the Dementia Society of America. To get a no-charge medical ID for yourself and/or a loved one, please click this link to our online form. In addition, as we learn about the efforts of first responders across North America, we seek to provide public recognition and support to the professionals and volunteers who serve individuals and families searching for their loved ones. Examples include: ​ East Windsor, Connecticut Palos Hills, Illinois Western Berks, Pennsylvania ​ We can only accomplish our mission through the generosity of our donors. If you can support our national grassroots efforts, please donate now. ​​ Read our blog posts about elopement, critical wandering, home safety, and driving: ​ Understand and Manage Elopement Behavior Keeping Them Safe: Critical Wandering and Elopement Home Safety Driving Concerns ​ Read an excellent article on ways to prevent elopement and critical wandering written by A Place For Mom®. 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.

Many people want to keep their brains sharp, especially as they age. In the United States, over-the-counter (OTC) supplements for brain health have gained popularity. These products claim to improve memory, focus, and brain function. But do they work? The Dementia Society of America® explains what these supplements are, what’s in them, and whether they help your brain. What Are Brain Health Supplements? Brain health supplements are pills, powders, or drinks that people buy without a doctor’s prescription. They are sold in stores and online, often labeled as “memory boosters” or “focus enhancers.” These supplements contain ingredients like: Omega-3 fatty acids – found in fish oil – may support brain function. B Vitamins – contribute to energy levels and brain cell health. Ginkgo Biloba – a plant extract that some believe enhances memory. Caffeine – present in coffee and tea, it can increase alertness. Herbs such as ashwagandha – thought to reduce stress. Do Brain Health Supplements Actually Work? Scientists are still unsure if these supplements improve brain function. Some studies suggest that certain ingredients, like omega-3s and B vitamins, may support brain health, especially for people who don’t get enough from food. However, many other ingredients lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. There Is No Magic Pill – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not test supplements for effectiveness before they are sold. This means companies can claim their products help the brain, even without strong evidence. Not a Cure for Memory Loss – Some supplements say they prevent the diseases that cause Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, but no supplement has been proven to do this. The Dementia Society of America® reminds the public to be cautious of products that make these claims. Are There Any Risks? While most brain supplements are generally safe, some may have side effects or interact with certain medications. Too Much of a Good Thing – High doses of specific vitamins, like B6 or B12, can cause nerve problems. Blood Thinners – Ingredients like Ginkgo Biloba may thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding problems. Fake or Unregulated Products—Some supplements do not contain what they promise since the U.S. supplement industry is little regulated. Better Ways to Support Brain Health Instead of relying on supplements, scientists recommend proven methods to keep your brain healthy: Eat a Brain-Boosting Diet – Foods like fish, nuts, berries, and leafy greens help brain function. Exercise Regularly – Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain. Get Enough Sleep – The brain needs rest to function correctly. Stay Mentally Active – Reading, puzzles, and learning new things help keep your brain sharp. Stay Social – Talking to friends and family helps memory and mental well-being. Conclusion While brain health supplements are popular in the United States, there is limited evidence that they enhance memory or focus. Some ingredients may have mild benefits, but they do not cure memory loss or brain diseases. Instead of relying on supplements, people can maintain a strong brain by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities. A healthy lifestyle is the best way to support brain health for life! Author: AI-Assisted Human-Edited Staff Writer Additional Reading: National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary Supplements for Cognitive Function, Dementia, and Brain Health. https://ods.od.nih.gov/ U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Caution on Dietary Supplements for Brain Health and Memory Claims. https://www.fda.gov/ National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Can Supplements Help with Memory and Thinking? https://www.nccih.nih.gov/ Harvard Medical School. Brain Supplements: What Works and What Doesn’t? https://www.health.harvard.edu/ American Academy of Neurology (AAN). The Truth About Over-the-Counter Memory Supplements. https://www.aan.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.

Supporting loved ones with Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bVFTD). Caring for a loved one with behavioral variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD) can be a challenging and demanding experience. The behavioral changes that are often associated with bvFTD can make it difficult to provide care, and the emotional toll of caregiving can be significant. However, there are a number of things that caregivers can do to cope with the challenges of caregiving and to provide their loved ones with the best possible care. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the unique challenges of caregiving for someone with bvFTD, as well as some strategies that can help caregivers to manage these challenges. We will also discuss the importance of self-care for caregivers, and we will provide some resources that can help caregivers to find support and information. Understanding bvFTD Behavioral variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD) is a type of Dementia that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These are the areas of the brain that control personality, behavior, language, and executive function. Symptoms The symptoms of bvFTD can vary from person to person, but they often include: Changes in Personality and Behavior: People with bvFTD may become more impulsive, aggressive, or apathetic. They may also lose their inhibitions and engage in socially inappropriate behavior. Language Problems: People with bvFTD may have difficulty understanding or using language. They may also have difficulty finding the right words to express themselves. Executive Dysfunction: People with bvFTD may have difficulty planning, organizing, and carrying out tasks. They may also have difficulty making decisions. Cognitive Changes The cognitive changes associated with bvFTD are often less pronounced than the behavioral changes. However, people with bvFTD may experience some difficulty with memory, attention, and problem-solving. Behavioral Changes The behavioral changes associated with bvFTD can be disruptive and challenging to manage. Caregivers may need to deal with aggression, apathy, and other difficult behaviors. Some of the most common behavioral changes associated with bvFTD include: Loss of Inhibitions: People with bvFTD may lose their inhibitions and engage in socially inappropriate behavior, such as making inappropriate comments or gestures, or behaving in a sexually suggestive way. Apathy: People with bvFTD may become apathetic, losing interest in activities that they used to enjoy. They may also become withdrawn and socially isolated. Impulsivity: People with bvFTD may become more impulsive, making decisions without thinking through the consequences. They may also engage in risky or dangerous behaviors, such as gambling or driving recklessly. Repetition: People with bvFTD may repeat themselves, saying the same thing over and over again. They may also become fixated on certain topics or activities. Language problems The language problems associated with bvFTD can make it difficult to communicate with people with the condition. Some of the most common language problems associated with bvFTD include: Word-Finding Difficulty: People with bvFTD may have difficulty finding the right words to express themselves. They may also use the wrong words or coin new ones. Reduced Fluency: People with bvFTD may speak less fluently, pausing frequently or leaving sentences unfinished. Changes in Tone and Prosody: People with bvFTD may change the tone or rhythm of their voices, making it difficult to understand what they say. Executive Dysfunction The executive dysfunction associated with bvFTD can make it difficult to plan, organize, and carry out tasks. People with bvFTD may also have difficulty making decisions. Some of the most common executive dysfunction problems associated with bvFTD include: Planning: People with bvFTD may have difficulty planning ahead or deciding how to accomplish tasks. Organizing: People with bvFTD may have difficulty organizing their thoughts or belongings. Executing Tasks: People with bvFTD may have difficulty carrying out tasks, even if they are able to plan and organize them. Decision-Making: People with bvFTD may have difficulty making decisions, even simple ones. The Unique Challenges of Caregiving The challenges of caring for someone with bvFTD can be significant. These challenges include: Behavioral Changes: The behavioral changes associated with bvFTD can be disruptive and challenging to manage. Caregivers may need to deal with aggression, apathy, and other difficult behaviors. Communication Difficulties: Language problems associated with bvFTD can make communication challenging. Caregivers may need to find creative ways to communicate with their loved one. Caregiver Stress and Burnout: Caring for someone with bvFTD can be emotionally and physically demanding. Caregivers are at risk for stress, burnout, and depression. Strategies For Effective Caregiving in Frontotemporal Dementia There are a number of strategies that can help caregivers to cope with the challenges of caring for someone with bvFTD. These strategies include: Building a Support Network: Caregivers should reach out to friends, family, and support groups for assistance. Having a strong support network can help to reduce stress and burnout. Creating a Structured Environment: Caregivers can establish routines and minimize potential triggers. This can help to reduce anxiety and agitation. Enhancing Communication: Caregivers can improve communication by using clear, simple language, avoiding jargon, and repeating information as needed. They can also use visual aids and gestures to help their loved one understand. Seeking Professional Help: Caregivers should consult healthcare professionals, therapists, and Dementia care specialists. These professionals can provide guidance and support and help develop a personalized care plan. Resources And Support There are a number of resources available to support caregivers of people with bvFTD. These resources include: National And Local Organizations: There are numerous national and local organizations that provide information, support, and resources for caregivers. These organizations can provide information about bvFTD, connect caregivers with other caregivers, and offer educational programs and support groups. Online Communities and Forums: There are a number of online communities and forums where caregivers can connect with other caregivers, share experiences, and find support. These online platforms can provide a sense of community and can help caregivers to feel less alone. Caregiver Education: There are a number of workshops, webinars, and educational materials available to help caregivers learn more about Dementia and caregiving. These educational resources can help caregivers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective care. Conclusion Caring for someone with bvFTD can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By building a support network, creating a structured environment, enhancing communication, and seeking professional help, caregivers can cope with the challenges of caregiving and provide their loved ones with the best possible care. For more information on bvFTD and treatment, visit Dementia Society of America today! 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.

Many of us, when unable to answer simple questions about the medications we take, promise to make a list before our next appointment. We know it’s important, but we never seem to get around to doing so. Besides, we are quite sure our prescription history is already a part of our medical history file. However, your doctor may not know about the prescriptions you have received from other clinicians, or if you take dietary supplements such as vitamins or alternative medicine herbals such as echinacea. Conversely, an emergency room doctor or another clinician may not easily access your medical records. The Importance of Keeping Good Medical Records in Dementia Keeping a current record of all the medications your loved one takes is especially important when Dementia is part of the equation. People who have Dementia may see physicians in addition to their family doctor, including a geriatrician, a neurologist, or a psychiatrist. It’s also quite likely the person who has Dementia will require evaluation and treatment for conditions unrelated to his or her Dementia diagnosis. In addition, the progression of Dementia, memory loss, and other disabilities makes it imperative that a family member or other caregiver have access to the medication list. As a first step, make a complete list of the medications, supplements, and any herbals your loved one may use. The list, in the form of a table, should include the following information: the name of the medication, the daily dosage, the prescription number, the pharmacy contact information, the prescribing clinician’s name and contact information, as well as the location of the medication in your loved one's place of residence. You might also want to jot down a few words about any side effects you or other people may have noticed. As a second step, and on a need-to-know basis, a hard copy of the compiled information should be available to other family members as well as to other caregivers responsible for your loved one’s care. Place another paper copy in a folder or a three-ring binder and leave it by the telephone. The folder, in addition to the medication list, should also contain other important names and numbers such as the contact information for your loved one’s doctors, as well as for the local hospital, ambulance service, and emergency room. Create a file on your computer hard drive that contains all the information you need to oversee your loved one’s care. Doing so will make it easy to update your loved one’s medical records. Do keep in mind that only certain people should have access to your loved one’s Medicare, health insurance, and credit card information as well as other types of confidential information. Doing so will help to prevent financial abuse and identity theft. And while you are at it – this is a good time to finally get around to tabulating your medications and other types of personally important information! 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.

Memorizing names can be a serious challenge for some people. The world is rife with all kinds of tricks for putting faces with names and the like. Most of them have various degrees of success. In a certain light, saying someone’s name three times during your first meeting can essentially be a type of brain game. Most brain games are simple exercises to help your brain work better. Saying someone’s name three times is as much about memorization as it is about developing conversational skills and working on associations. I must admit that I’m not the best when it comes to remembering names. I’ve tried a lot of different tips and tricks over the years and very few of them ever really helped. Saying someone’s name three times is a simple brain game you can do when you meet people (and they will never know it). The goal is to be subtle about it. You don’t want to shake someone’s hand and simply rattle off their name three times. Repeat Names to Enhance Your Memory of a New Person What you want to do when you first meet somebody: at the first handshake, you want to repeat their name. For example, if I was meeting someone named Jason for the first time, I would say, “Hello Jason, how are you doing?” As the introduction and conversation flow naturally, I follow up with opportunities. “So tell me, Jason, where do you live?” So, at this point, I’ve already said his name twice. My brain is getting used to that, and it’s associating that person’s face, his demeanor, and everything in that environment at that particular time. Within the next minute or so, create another opportunity to use their name again. Something along the lines of “So Jason, how many kids do you have?” Not only are you repeating their name to help it stick in your memory, but you’re also creating associations relevant to them (e.g., where they live and how many kids they have). Of course, there are many different topics you could touch on. Family, hobbies, where they live, or what they do for a living are all common topics that help you learn more about them and create memorable associations that will stick in your mind the next time you meet them. With regular practice, I think you’ll find that you can get to know a lot about people in a relatively short period of time. This is especially helpful if you’re involved in any kind of networking or social group, where you’re trying to learn as much as you can about someone in a short period of time. The key is to drop their name into the conversation. As you say the name, really try to emphasize your focus on their face or their demeanor. This could also include finding a similarity to someone you know who has the same name. Contributor Author: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For more information, 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.

When it comes to sleep, establishing a routine is critical. Sleep-wake cycles are for the brain what your transmission is for your car. Further, sleep issues are often associated with Dementia and may very well be a catalyst for Dementia onset and severity. In this day and age, a lot of people are simply going to bed whenever they crash, or whenever their kids or life demands allow. When they wake up, it’s rarely of their own accord. Instead, they tend to wake up to loud alarm clocks blaring, someone else waking them, or something like the dog jumping on the bed. Sleep routines are critically important for brain function, and it can be as simple as setting a time to go to bed and a time to wake up, then sticking with it to make it a part of your regular routine. Establishing a routine helps your body achieve homeostasis in hormone production, regulate blood pressure, and support the glymphatic system, which removes toxins from the brain while you sleep. This is often easier said than done. Family life, career demands, pets, and many other distractions can make it challenging to establish a consistent sleep routine. Getting Your Sleep There’s no magic number for the number of hours you need to get each night, although 7-9 hours is a good rule of thumb. The brain needs a good, solid two to three deep sleep cycles per night, and you can’t do that if you’re only getting three or four hours of sleep per night. The key is to listen to your body. Ideally, you want to establish a sleep routine where you fall asleep easily at a set time and wake up in the morning feeling energized, alert, and ready to face the day. Some people might only need six hours of sleep, while others might need eight or even ten hours! Some people meditate quite regularly, and the deep-state training involved in the process means they may only require five or so hours of sleep each night. Sleep science is constantly evolving as research reveals more about the benefits of sleep and how to incorporate a healthy sleep routine into your daily life. What it boils down to is the routine that is best for you, your body, and what makes you feel the most rested. Contributor Author: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For more information, 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.

Some people find the loved one in their care almost seems like a stranger - perhaps morphing from a kind and helpful person to a combative and vulgar one. Other times, Dementia seems to magnify personality traits. When this happens, people often say, it’s my father only “more so.” Though difficult, do try to remember that it is the disease, not the person, who is responsible for these worrisome and sometimes embarrassing changes in his or her temperament. The diseases causing Dementia alter and destroy brain structures. The consequences of the damage include loss of the ability to accurately process and relay information. Another outcome is the inability to control emotions such as anger and censor impolite and socially inappropriate behaviors. Because of the progressive nature of Dementia, behavioral changes tend to worsen with time. Understanding why behaviors occur can help one deal with them. Emotional blunting, or the inability to express verbal and non-verbal feelings, is another characteristic of having Dementia. The inability to express needs and feelings can make people who have Dementia angry, combative, and sometimes violent. Many people who have Dementia experience depression. Dementia can also affect sexual behaviors in ways that are often unpredictable. Some people who have Dementia cannot understand that it is impolite to touch or expose their private areas in public or make unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances. There are many simple ways to reduce the incidents and intensity of these difficult-to-manage behaviors. However, first, consider other reasons for your loved one’s difficult behaviors. Drug interactions and side effects may intensify Dementia symptoms, cause hallucinations, and intensify agitation and combativeness. Other explanations for uncharacteristic behaviors and emotions can include pain, fatigue, overstimulation, as well as other medical problems such as a bladder infection. Understanding and Managing Difficult Behaviors There are many strategies you can use to prevent or diffuse your loved one’s outbursts. Perhaps the most important one is communication. Do not argue with your loved ones, remind them of what they have forgotten, or ask probing questions to assess their memory. Use supportive language to affirm that you are listening, respecting his or her concerns, and responding appropriately. For example, it is better to respond to fear, but the unlikely true incident is to say, “I’ll look into it” rather than “Don’t be silly.” Sometimes all it takes is a calming hug or a kind and supportive touch. Distraction and redirection are useful ways to diffuse anger or sexually aggressive behaviors. Give your loved one a snack, go for a walk, point out a pretty flower, or talk about the weather. Sometimes your loved one’s behavior is more than you can handle. When this happens, call the Crisis Intervention Team, rather than 911, maybe the best option. The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) refers to the police officers in your community who have special training in how to manage a variety of behavioral, drug-related, and mental health crises. Having the CIT present to address unmanageable or threatening behavior can prevent a difficult situation from escalating into something worse. The CIT can also accompany you and your loved one to the medical facility. Be sure to include your local CIT's phone number in your list of emergency phone numbers. 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.

Put simply, neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and grow throughout time, dependent on its environment. The brain is a sensory-driven organism. This means it thrives, survives, and functions based on the input it receives. The brain essentially is a relay station; the information coming in influences the information going out. So we want to make sure our brain is wired in the best way possible. There is a brilliant quote from neuroscientist Santiago Ramón y Cajal: “Any man can, if he so desires, become the sculptor of his own brain.” Cajal said that at the turn of the last century, when most everything we knew about the brain came from head-to-toe physical examination. In fact, Cajal was one of the first people to really study brain cells under a microscope. The conventional wisdom at that time was that your brain was hardwired and what you had at birth was how your brain would be the rest of your life. In recent years, we have learned that the brain is capable of change. Neuroplasticity is the key concept for everything we talk about regarding brain training. How Can I Increase My Brain's Neuroplasticity? The picnic game exercise is just one of many examples. The game is played with two or more people. It starts out with the first person saying something like “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m bringing an apple,” or something that starts with the letter A. The second person says they’re going on a picnic and will bring an apple and something else that starts with the letter B. The game continues on with each person reciting the items in the list and then adding an item that starts with the next letter of the alphabet. When you expand it out through the alphabet, and you get to the letter Z, it can actually be rather complicated. There are two points to this game – improving working memory and short-term memory, which are closely connected. Short-term memory is where you hold onto a piece of information for a brief period. If that information is worth committing to long-term memory, it will be based on repetition or importance. Repetition is somewhat obvious, where you do something over and over again until it becomes learned (e.g., playing the guitar). Importance is related to something happening that has a significant impact. For example, if someone was hit by a car in a hit-and-run accident and they got the license plate number as the car drove off. The picnic game primarily exercises working memory and, secondarily, short-term memory. Working memory helps you hold onto small amounts of information while you are attending to something else, and is often the first aspect of memory impairment in certain types of Dementia. Contributor Author: Dr. Michael Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Founder of APEX Brain Centers in Asheville, NC. For more information, 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.

The phrase “Get moving!” can mean something different for each of us. For some people, it means getting up, walking on the treadmill, going for a bike ride, or walking the dog. Unfortunately, for other people it means getting up, going to the bathroom, and going back to the couch. So there is certainly a need to put this concept in perspective. When it comes to proper brain function, movement is absolutely critical. Think about somebody you know that isn’t very mobile. They might be sedentary because they are bedridden, have mobility issues, or it might just be that they are plain lazy. Do their brains work as well as someone who is active, getting out and about all the time? The bottom line is that movement is essential for appropriate brain function. Chances are that you’ve heard the term “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” The brain essentially is a relay station for sensory information. When we don’t have appropriate sensory information going into the brain from our muscles, joints, balance system, and more, it starts to wear away and degenerate more rapidly than it should. Over time, it can cause the brain not to perform at its highest potential, as you can imagine. The brain is stimulated by nerve fibers from several different sources. This includes senses like vision and hearing, as well as other sources. The nerve fibers that carry information from muscles and joints are by far the largest nerve fibers that supply the brain with the greatest amount of information. If you are inactive, you are cutting out your greatest amount of input to the brain. This will, in turn, reduce the efficiency of the brain's output. This can manifest itself as physical problems, mental and emotional problems, cognitive and thinking problems, and memory decline. Get Yourself Moving! To stimulate the brain, you don’t need particularly intense activity. You can start out small. It might be going to the gym, taking a walk in the woods, or on your streets. Just so long as you’re getting out there and getting moving. Developing the habit of regular activity starts you building a foundation to explore other exercises and more intense activities that can have an even more significant positive impact on brain health. 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.