2026 Candid Platinum Transparency recognition. Computer-Generated Image (CGI). National recognition of the Dementia Society of America reinforces our commitment to accountability, measurable impact, and the responsible stewardship of every donor dollar. The Dementia Society of America® (DSA) is proud to announce that we have once again earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency for 2026 from Candid (formerly GuideStar)—the highest level of recognition awarded to nonprofit organizations for transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. (Candid) For our supporters, this distinction represents much more than a badge displayed on our website. It is an independent affirmation that DSA is committed to operating openly and responsibly, with a clear focus on results. It reflects our belief that every donor deserves to know how their charitable investment is being used and what difference it is making in the lives of individuals and families affected by Dementia. Today's donors are more informed than ever before. Before making a charitable gift, many people research organizations to better understand their mission, leadership, finances, and effectiveness. They want confidence that their donation will be used wisely and that the organization they support is achieving meaningful outcomes. That is exactly what the Platinum Seal represents. Publicly Sharing Comprehensive Information To earn this recognition, organizations must publicly share comprehensive information about their mission, programs, financial information, leadership, strategic goals, and measurable impact. Unlike lower levels of recognition, the Platinum Seal requires nonprofits to report meaningful performance metrics that demonstrate progress toward their mission. (Candid) For the Dementia Society of America, transparency has never been simply about meeting a requirement. It has always been part of who we are. Since our founding, DSA has worked to become one of the nation's leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting everyone affected by the many disorders that can cause Dementia. We believe families deserve reliable information, compassionate guidance, practical educational resources, opportunities for meaningful engagement in life, and hope at every stage of the journey. Every contribution entrusted to DSA helps make that mission possible. Reaching Families Across the Country Donor support enables us to provide educational resources that reach families across the country, develop innovative caregiver education programs, expand awareness about brain health and Dementia, seed-fund promising research, and recognize life-enriching engagement programs that improve quality of life for those living with cognitive impairment and those who care for them. The Platinum Seal assures donors that these efforts are supported by an organization willing to openly share its goals, strategies, and measurable accomplishments. Transparency also creates accountability When organizations publicly report their objectives and outcomes, they invite supporters to evaluate their progress. Rather than asking donors to simply trust our intentions, DSA believes it is better to demonstrate our performance through measurable results and continual improvement. That approach strengthens confidence while encouraging us to remain focused on delivering the greatest possible benefit for the communities we serve. Independent Recognition Matters The Candid Platinum Seal is not a self-awarded honor. It is earned by providing detailed organizational information through Candid's nationally recognized nonprofit profile system, which millions of donors, foundations, corporations, and grantmakers use to evaluate charitable organizations. Candid profiles are also distributed across more than 200 charitable giving platforms, increasing visibility and helping donors make informed decisions. (Candid) For many prospective donors, this independent validation provides valuable peace of mind. It confirms that DSA willingly shares information about their leadership, finances, governance, organizational strategy, and measurable impact, rather than keeping it hidden. Transparency Reduces Uncertainty Transparency helps donors feel confident that their generosity is supporting a well-managed organization committed to responsible stewardship. Research published by Candid further underscores why transparency matters. According to Candid, nonprofits that earn a Seal of Transparency receive, on average, 62% more donor contributions than organizations without a Seal. While every donor makes giving decisions differently, the findings suggest that openness and accountability inspire greater confidence among charitable supporters. (Candid) Increased confidence ultimately benefits those we serve Greater donor trust leads to stronger financial support. Stronger support allows us to expand educational outreach, invest in innovative programs, strengthen caregiver resources, increase awareness campaigns, and continue supporting promising Dementia research initiatives that may improve lives today while contributing to better outcomes tomorrow. Our commitment to transparency extends beyond financial reporting. We recognize that families facing Dementia want honesty, compassion, and practical guidance. Likewise, our donors deserve clear communication about how their generosity is making a difference. Whether someone contributes $5 or $50,000, every donor becomes a partner in our mission, and every partner deserves openness and respect. As we look toward the future, DSA remains committed to continually improving our programs, expanding our national reach, measuring our impact more effectively, and sharing those results openly with our supporters. The 2026 Platinum Seal of Transparency represents an important milestone, but it is not our destination. It is another step in our ongoing promise to earn, and keep, the trust placed in us by thousands of generous individuals, families, foundations, and organizations across America. We are grateful for everyone who makes our work possible When you choose to support the Dementia Society of America, you are partnering with an organization that has demonstrated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. Your gift helps educate families, empower caregivers, fund innovative research, increase public awareness, and improve the lives of those affected by all forms of Dementia. Together, we are building a future where every family facing Dementia has access to knowledge, hope, compassionate support, and opportunities to live life with dignity and purpose. That is the true value of transparency—and the lasting impact of your generosity. www.dementiasociety.org/donate 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.

In Chris Hemsworth's A Road Trip to Remember, the man best known as Marvel’s hammer-wielding Thor trades CGI battles for something far more human: a motorcycle ride across Australia with his dad, Craig, who is living with a form of Dementia (in his case, caused by Alzheimer’s disease). It’s a one-hour National Geographic® special, produced with Darren Aronofsky’s Protozoa and streaming on Disney+® and Hulu®. Still, it feels more like a lovingly shot home movie than a blockbuster event. Set against the vast landscapes of Melbourne, the Northern Territory, and the outback communities that shaped the Hemsworth family, the documentary follows father and son as they retrace the routes of Chris’s childhood. They visit places like Bulman (also known as Gulin Gulin), the remote Aboriginal community where Craig once worked as a social-services counsellor and Chris’s mother, Leonie, taught English. These aren’t just scenic backdrops; they’re memory prompts, anchors to a life Craig sometimes struggles to recall fully. A road trip built on memory science At the heart of A Road Trip to Remember is a simple but powerful idea: social connection and reminiscence can help spark memories and support brain health. The film weaves in the science of reminiscence therapy and social engagement, highlighting research that shows strong social ties can significantly reduce the risk of Dementia and improve well-being for people already living with cognitive decline. Guided by Dr. Suraj Samtani from the University of New South Wales’ Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, Chris designs the trip as a kind of “therapeutic road trip back in time.” Old photos, familiar roads, and reunions with people from their past become active tools, not just nostalgia. We see the way Craig’s face lights up when an old story surfaces, or when a shared joke suddenly returns to him. The documentary isn’t promising a cure—because there isn’t one—but it gently shows how thoughtful connection can offer moments of clarity, dignity, and joy for families living with all causes of Dementia. For anyone who has watched a loved one fade in and out of recognition, those moments matter more than almost anything. Chris Hemsworth: from outback kid to global advocate Part of what makes this documentary so compelling is how closely it’s tied to Chris Hemsworth’s own life story. Born on August 11, 1983, in Melbourne, Hemsworth grew up bouncing between city life and the rugged Outback. His parents moved the family back and forth between Melbourne, the Northern Territory community of Bulman, and later Phillip Island. He has often described his childhood in the bush—surrounded by cattle stations, crocodiles, and buffalo—as an “adventure,” and credits that period with shaping his love of the outdoors and his grounded, no-nonsense personality. That kid from Bulman eventually became one of the world’s highest-profile actors, breaking through in Australian television (Home and Away) before leaping into global stardom as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But away from the red carpets, Hemsworth has slowly turned his public platform toward something deeply personal: brain health and aging. While filming his earlier National Geographic series Limitless, Chris learned that he carries two copies of the APOE-e4 gene variant—one from each parent—placing him at a significantly higher-than-average risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease later in life. The revelation was jarring enough that he publicly announced he would step back from acting to spend more time with his family and rethink his priorities. That genetic news sits quietly in the background of A Road Trip to Remember, but it’s there. Chris isn’t just walking beside a father living with Alzheimer’s; he’s a son who knows his own risk is elevated. The documentary becomes, in a sense, a rehearsal for a future he hopes never fully arrives—and an act of defiance against fatalism. A family story that loops back on itself The trip Chris and Craig take in the film isn’t random. Years ago, father and son dreamed of riding motorcycles from Melbourne back up to the Northern Territory, revisiting the places that meant so much to their family when the three Hemsworth boys were young. Life, as it tends to do, got in the way. Now, as Craig faces early-stage Alzheimer’s, the promise finally becomes urgent. Along the way, the film revisits the Hemsworths’ time living and working in Bulman: Craig counselling in the community, Leonie teaching in the local school, and the boys racing around in a childhood that had more to do with red dirt and open sky than screens. When Chris stands in those same places decades later—sometimes in tears, sometimes laughing—it’s hard not to feel how memory, place, and identity are all tangled up together. In recent years, Hemsworth has also physically returned to Gulin Gulin outside of filming, sharing on social media that some of his “earliest and happiest memories” came from that remote community. That personal loop—childhood to fame to homecoming—adds emotional weight to every frame of the documentary. More than Thor: the creator behind the camera Although A Road Trip to Remember is directed by Tom Barbor-Might and produced alongside heavyweights like Darren Aronofsky and Jane Root, Chris is not just the on-screen star. He’s also a creator and producer through his company, Wild State, continuing a partnership with National Geographic that began with Limitless. You can feel that creative fingerprint. The film blends the polished visual language of adventure travel—big skies, long roads, sweeping drone shots—with intimate, unguarded family moments: Craig’s pauses as he searches for a word, Chris’s voice cracking as he reads an old photo. This casual ribbing only happens between a father and son who genuinely like each other. Hemsworth’s previous work in Limitless explored topics like stress, cold exposure, and longevity with an almost superheroic bravado. A Road Trip to Remember keeps the curiosity and the science, but dials down the bravado. Here, Chris isn’t trying to push his body to its extremes; he’s trying to hold onto his dad, one story at a time. Why this documentary matters now Globally, more than 57 million people are living with some type/cause of Dementia (Alzheimer's, Vascular, Lewy Body, Frontotemporal & over 200 more), a number expected to rise sharply in the coming decades. Families like the Hemsworths are far from alone in navigating the daily realities of memory loss, grief, and uncertainty. What makes this film important is not that a celebrity family is affected—it’s that they’re choosing to show the messy, hopeful, funny, painful parts of that journey in detail. The documentary also helps correct a narrative about Dementia that can feel overwhelmingly bleak. Yes, it is a progressive, currently incurable disease. But embedded in the science the film showcases is a quieter message: there are things we can do, right now, to support brain health and quality of life. Social connection. Community engagement. Physical activity. Emotional closeness. For Chris Hemsworth, those aren’t abstract recommendations. Having learned that his own genetic risk is higher, he’s been candid about reshaping his life—leaning into family, prioritizing balance, and using his platform to talk openly about brain health rather than hiding it in the shadows. A love letter to dads, memories, and showing up Ultimately, A Road Trip to Remember lands as a love letter: from a son to his father, from a family to the places that formed them, and from a global movie star to anyone whose life has been touched by dementia. It reminds us that while we wait for better treatments and cures, there is profound power in the ordinary things: a shared ride, a familiar song on the radio, a dusty road you’ve driven a hundred times before. For people living with Dementia, these echoes of the past can sometimes open a door. For the rest of us, they’re a nudge to make the memories now, while we still can. And that might be Chris Hemsworth’s most heroic role yet—not as a god of thunder, but as a son on a motorcycle, riding beside his dad into a future none of us can fully predict, determined to fill the road with as much love and connection as possible. Chris Hemsworth, National Geographic, Disney+, and Hulu do not endorse the Dementia Society or underwrite our content. Their trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Sources: Business Wire The Courier-Mail Celebrity Business Wire Encyclopedia Britannica FinancialContent Daily Telegraph StarsUnfolded FinancialContent Sky News Sohu 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.

Medical professional reading brain scans. At Dementia Society of America, families often ask us: Are scientists getting closer to better treatments? Is there anything new on the horizon? The answer is yes — and in many different ways. Researchers around the world are working to develop medications that do more than manage symptoms. The goal is to slow, stop, or even prevent the brain changes that cause Dementia. Because Dementia is not just one disease, scientists are pursuing different strategies for Alzheimer’s disease, vascular Dementia, Lewy body Dementia, and frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Here’s a look at where research stands today. Alzheimer’s Disease: Moving Beyond One Target For many years, Alzheimer’s research focused on a protein called amyloid, which builds up in sticky plaques in the brain. Recently approved treatments that remove amyloid have shown that slowing decline is possible — at least in early stages of the disease. But scientists now believe Alzheimer’s is more complex than amyloid alone. Current research includes: Improved amyloid treatments are designed to work earlier or more safely. Tau-targeting therapies, aimed at another protein that forms tangles inside brain cells and spreads through brain networks. Anti-inflammatory treatments, because immune cells in the brain may contribute to damage when they become overactive. Synapse-protecting drugs are designed to protect the connections between brain cells. Earlier detection tools, including blood tests that may identify Alzheimer’s-related changes years before major symptoms appear. The big shift? Researchers increasingly believe future treatment may require combination approaches, similar to how we treat heart disease or cancer. Vascular Dementia: Protecting the Brain’s Blood Supply Vascular Dementia is caused by problems with blood flow in the brain, often due to strokes or damage to very small blood vessels (called small vessel disease). Instead of targeting one specific protein, research here focuses on protecting the brain’s “plumbing.” Current directions include: Strengthening small blood vessels and improving blood flow. Protecting the blood–brain barrier, which acts like a filter to keep harmful substances out of the brain. Reducing inflammation that damages vessels. Repurposing heart and stroke medications to see if they can also protect cognition. Improving clinical trial design, since vascular brain damage looks different from person to person. Researchers also emphasize prevention: managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, as well as stroke risk, remains critical. Lewy Body Dementia: Targeting Alpha-Synuclein Lewy body Dementia (which includes Dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease Dementia) is strongly linked to a protein called alpha-synuclein. This protein forms clumps inside brain cells, disrupting how they function. Research efforts focus on: Preventing alpha-synuclein clumping. Immunotherapy approaches, such as antibodies that help the body clear abnormal proteins. Reducing inflammation in the brain. Addressing mixed disease, since many people with Lewy body Dementia also have Alzheimer’s-related changes. Scientists are also working to improve symptom treatments — especially for hallucinations, sleep disorders, and movement problems — while minimizing medication side effects. Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): Precision and Gene-Based Therapies FTD often affects people at a younger age and can sometimes be linked to specific genetic changes. That makes it a promising area for precision medicine — treatments tailored to a person’s genetic makeup. Key research areas include: Gene therapies to boost levels of important brain proteins, such as progranulin, in certain genetic forms of FTD. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) — small pieces of genetic material designed to change how harmful proteins are made. Targeting tau or TDP-43 proteins, which accumulate in different types of FTD. Because some FTD cases are linked to known gene mutations, researchers can test therapies in highly specific patient groups, increasing the likelihood of meaningful results. A Common Theme: Earlier Is Better Across all types of Dementia, one idea is becoming clearer: the earlier we treat, the better the chances of success. New blood tests and imaging tools are helping researchers identify people at earlier stages of disease. That allows clinical trials to test medications before extensive brain damage occurs. Many scientists believe the future of Dementia treatment will involve: Earlier diagnosis More personalized treatment Combination therapies Continued focus on brain health and prevention While there is still much work to do, progress is real — and accelerating. If you would like to know how you can get involved in Dementia research, we'll have a future post on this topic. Sources National Institute on Aging (NIA). NIH Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Research Progress Report. Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions. Alzheimer’s disease drug development pipeline. Nature. Reporting on advances in Alzheimer’s drug development. Aging and Disease. Review on cerebral small vessel disease therapies. Neurology International (MDPI). Clinical trial design in vascular cognitive impairment. The Lancet Neurology. Review on Dementia with Lewy bodies therapeutic landscape. BJPsych Open (Cambridge Core). Disease-modifying therapies for synucleinopathies. ClinicalTrials.gov. Ongoing frontotemporal Dementia gene therapy trials. MDPI. Updates on disease-modifying treatments for frontotemporal Dementia. Dementia Society of America is committed to sharing trustworthy, research-based information to support individuals and families living with Dementia. 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 words we use reflect our values and help shape how people around us are treated. Person-centered approaches focus on respect, dignity, and partnership. At the Dementia Society of America, we value this approach to describing the experience of Dementia. Here are some examples of this language, and why this shift is so important in the context of Dementia. 1. Care Partner (vs. Caregiver) Meaning: A “care partner” is someone who works with a person, not just for them. Why it matters: This term shows that care is a relationship. It recognizes that both people give and receive support, even in situations like Dementia care. 2. Person Living With (vs. Patient, Victim, or Sufferer) Examples: “Person living with Dementia” “Person living with diabetes” Why it matters: This is called person-first language. It puts the individual before the condition. It reduces stigma and reminds others that a diagnosis does not define the whole person. 3. Elder (vs. Resident or Patient) Meaning: Refers to older adults with respect for their life experience and wisdom. Why it matters: Words like “resident” can feel clinical or impersonal. “Elder” honors identity, history, and value. 4. Person-Directed Care (vs. Patient Care) Meaning: The individual’s preferences, choices, and goals guide medical care. Why it matters: This term shifts power back to the person receiving care. It encourages independence and respects autonomy. 5. Support (vs. Assistance or Help) Meaning: Working alongside someone to enable them to do as much as they can. Why it matters: “Support” feels empowering, while “help” can sometimes feel limiting or one-sided. 6. Strengths-Based Language (vs. Deficit-Based Language) Examples: “Has strong communication skills” instead of “struggles less with speaking.” Why it matters: Focuses on what a person can do, not what they cannot. This approach builds confidence and encourages growth. 7. Behavior as Communication (vs. Problem Behavior) Meaning: Actions are seen as a way of expressing needs or feelings. Why it matters: Especially in Dementia care, this reduces blame and encourages understanding. It leads to more compassionate responses. 8. Engagement (vs. Activities or Tasks) Meaning: Meaningful involvement based on a person’s interests and preferences. Why it matters: Emphasizes purpose and enjoyment, not just filling time. 9. Community (vs. Facility or Institution) Meaning: A place where people belong and connect. Why it matters: Promotes inclusion, relationships, and a sense of home. Why Language Is So Important in Dementia Care 1. Shapes Attitudes The words we use influence how we think. For example, calling someone a “patient” may lead to a more clinical mindset, while “person” or “Elder” encourages respect and empathy. 2. Affects Relationships Language can create either distance or connection. Terms like “care partner” promote teamwork and mutual respect. 3. Supports Dignity and Identity Person-centered language helps protect a person’s sense of self. This approach is especially important in Dementia care, where identity can feel at risk. 4. Reduces Stigma Words like “sufferer” or “victim” can carry negative meanings. Person-first language helps reduce stereotypes and bias. 5. Encourages Better Outcomes When people feel respected and heard, they are more likely to engage in care or learning. This approach can lead to improved well-being and quality of life. Final Thought Person-centered language is more than just choosing “nicer” words. It reflects a deeper shift in values—from doing things to people, to working with them. Across education, healthcare, and elder care, these words help create environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued. 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 Horizons™ | Workshop 11 | Home Safety Video Module [11] Transcript Home. What does that mean to you? Are you surrounded by pictures and mementos that have a story or bring you joy? Does home mean safety, peace, and familiarity? When you come home, do you love a particular scent or smell? Our job today is to learn how to adapt a home for someone whose brain and senses are changing over time, due to progressive cognitive impairments that we call Dementia. That way, you can better understand why modifications to create a safer home environment are necessary in the first place. It is also essential to know how the underlying diseases or disorders that can cause Dementia may impact the senses. Let's start with vision or eyesight. Peripheral vision narrows, meaning that the person sees primarily what is directly in front of them, like looking through a tunnel, with less ability to see what is happening on the sides. Because of this, people living with Dementia may then bump into objects if pathways are narrow or cluttered. Also, identifying shapes and objects can be difficult if the lighting is dim. For example, the vacuum can look like a small child in the distance. Shadows can be misinterpreted, especially at night, looking like strangers entering the room. The shape, purpose, or function of an object can be misconstrued, so a TV remote control and a cell phone can look the same. Because of changes in the brain, which keeps track of what does what and how, managing devices can become overwhelming. Depth perception changes over time. It may be more difficult to safely walk up or down stairs, or know how to step into or out of a bathtub. As you can anticipate, there is a higher risk of slips, falls, and injuries. The brain also controls our ability to move our legs and maintain balance while walking. As Dementia progresses, steps shorten, people may shuffle their feet; and reflexes slow, creating another reason why the risk of trips and falls is a common concern. The sense of smell may diminish, making it problematic to identify smoke, foul odors, or spoiled food. It is also common for hearing to become impaired with age. Therefore, older people living with Dementia can have more difficulty deciphering sounds and voices. This is especially true when there is too much background noise or people are talking simultaneously. Although this may not happen to everyone with Dementia, hallucinations can occur. Hallucinations are perceptions of having touched, heard, seen, tasted, or smelled something that does not exist. Given this wide range of potential changes, I hope you can see why creating a home environment that supports safety and thriving is wise and loving. Hearing all of this may be overwhelming to absorb. Take four deep breaths. Creating Greater Safety at Home By anticipating challenges and making proactive adjustments inside and outside the home, care partners and caregivers can significantly enhance the quality of life for those living with Dementia and provide reassurance for themselves. You can do hard things, and I am here to help you get started. Let's start by imagining yourself walking into the kitchen. Objects might look different to a person living with Dementia. Now, scan the room. Take inventory of what is inside the cabinets and drawers, and consider the following recommendations. Remove knives and other sharp utensils. Purchase kitchen appliances, such as coffee makers, with automatic shut-off. Disconnect the garbage disposal, or make it very difficult to turn on. If possible, remove the knobs from the stove. Lock up cleaning supplies. People may misinterpret cleaning solutions for juice. Be especially sure to secure dishwasher soap pods. They are poisonous and commonly mistaken for candy. Remove anything mistaken for food, such as fake fruit in a bowl. Clear the refrigerator of expired food regularly. Some cabinets may require safety locks to keep items hidden and secure. Keep the fire extinguisher or fire blanket within easy reach. Label cabinets so that things are easier to find. This will also help support a sense of independence. Use chairs that are sturdy, with armrests that make it easier to get in and out of. As you walk through the hallways, clear the pathways. Remove throw rugs that can be tripping hazards, and add additional lighting where necessary. Consider using non-skid wax on floors. If not, be sure the person wears non-skid shoes or slippers when walking on wooden or tile surfaces. Some people with Dementia find it easier to locate rooms in the house if way-finding signs are in place. These signs usually have the room's name in large print and a picture. Use brightly colored tape or paint to mark the edges of steps, or changes in the flooring. Install or secure handrails on stairs. If steps become too challenging, the person may need to remain on one main floor. If clear glass doors or partitions are present in your home, use decals to prevent people from bumping into them. Now, let's imagine going into the bedroom or bedrooms. I would encourage you to decorate the bed with a color that contrasts with the rug or floor so that it can be easily identified. For example, a blue bedspread and a cream colored carpet. Install motion detector nightlights for times when someone wakes up and needs to find the restroom. Again, be sure to remove throw rugs. Listen for low battery chirps from smoke alarms, and don't wait to change them. Supervise the use of heating pads or electric blankets. Remove clutter, and label drawers and cabinets. Moving into the bathroom. This is an area that requires particular attention: Remove or secure prescription or over-the-counter medications from cabinets, and place mouthwash and colognes where they can be supervised during use. Replace door locks with non-locking levers. Install grab bars in shower and bathtubs. Use a non-slip bath mat. Install non-slip toilet seats that contrast with the color of the floor, making them easier to see. Set water temperature to avoid scalding. Use overflow valves or flood sensors to avoid or detect flooding. Find yourself now in the living room: Remove throw rugs, and use non-slip surfaces if possible. Do your best to declutter. It's easier to pay attention when there is less overstimulation. Remove long cords to avoid tripping. Perhaps in the living room or somewhere else, create a calm and inviting space for the person living with Dementia to relax and have access to meaningful activities such as books, magazines, simple puzzles, paper and pencils for drawing, and music for listening. If guns or a knife collection exists, secure and disable them. Safety, autonomy, and comfort also apply to the backyard and garage: Secure the keys to the snowblower or lawnmower and car. Place power tools out of reach. Disconnect the gas or electric source for the grill. Adjust uneven pathways. Create a space for gardening, walking, sitting and spending time in the fresh air and sunshine. Consider adding a bird feeder or gentle wind chime. Now, you may be wondering, how do I make these changes when the person with Dementia may resist? Start gradually, one slight modification at a time. Have a friend or family member take the person out for a meal or for the day, while the remodeling happens. Do not say anything in advance. Wait to see if the person recognizes the changes. Be matter of fact. Avoid saying you needed this "because...". Instead, say "We needed to make a slight improvement." Creating a safe home environment for individuals living with Dementia requires a combination of understanding, empathy, creativity, and practical adjustments. It's a journey, but ultimately, it can significantly improve the quality of life for both the individuals living with Dementia and their loved ones. Consider these adaptations as a way of loving your spouse, parent, or sibling differently. There we have it: home sweet home. Thank you for joining me today. There was a lot to take in, but use our support material to review and help you implement changes over time. Thank you again. Be well. 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 Horizons™ | Workshop 9 | Brain Health Video Module [09] Transcript Welcome. In this session, we're going to focus on the brain. Yes, that includes your brain and the brains of those around you. Notwithstanding a severe and possibly terminal stage of brain failure, the brain can almost always be learning and emotionally engaged, even when it seems that that's not possible. Over the last few decades, research has now consistently shown that our brains can grow new neurons. When presented with new information, we can add to our cognitive reserve throughout our lives. What is cognitive reserve, you ask? Very simply put, it's the totality of everything you've learned and experienced from birth. Think of cognitive reserve as a dictionary. You can have a thicker dictionary as you age, giving you lots to draw from, to have conversations and be creative, or you can have a thinner dictionary as you enter later years, which may limit the concepts and ideas you can lean on for your day-to-day cognition. Steps to Better Brain Health Let's try to build a better brain by filling our dictionary with more words, ideas, and experiences. This can start at the youngest age and continue to the eldest. It's a chance to encourage the young people in your life to commit to a great education, even if that's not always in the classroom. The other aspect of great brain health is neuroplasticity. In its most basic conceptualization, neuroplasticity leverages cognitive reserve and builds added knowledge or neural connections by using already existing knowledge. It is the ability to do what you've always done, but in a new and novel way. Here is a great example. If able, write your name with a pen or pencil, with whichever is your non-dominant hand. Make it simple. Write your name three times in a row to practice and try to make your writing more legible. As you progress, you might feel very accomplished afterward. I certainly did. Another trick to try is folding your arms. Yes, let's do that now. Fold your arms across your chest if you can. How does that feel? Comfortable? Okay. Now, reverse your folded arms and fold them the opposite way. How does that feel? Awkward at first? Sure, but over time, if you do that more frequently, you'll start to build new muscle memory, like a golfer might try. They swing the club a bit differently for different shots. Folding your arms teaches your brain that you can adapt to change. In a nutshell, these are the two elements of better brain health you can use today, right now: cognitive reserve and neuroplasticity. Well, we are about a quarter of the way through and we have much more to share. We need to dive deeper into what makes the brain tick and how what you do can positively affect your overall brain health. Our brain is like a machine that continuously processes information, stores memories, and regulates our body's functions. To function at its best, it requires care and maintenance. This program explores simple yet effective strategies for maintaining and improving brain health, ensuring that our most vital organ remains in good condition. Our first strategy is to stay active. Regular physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients, whether going for a walk, working in the garden, swimming, doing yoga, using simple stretch bands, lifting hand weights, or participating in relatively safe sports like table tennis. Staying active helps promote brain health and cognitive function. This is a true statement: what's good for the heart is good for the brain. Feed your brain like the rest of your body. The brain needs proper nutrition to thrive. A balanced eating plan, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats provides the nutrients necessary for brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats that may reduce your odds of cardiovascular disease by lowering your cholesterol, are found in among other things, olive oil, fish, nuts and seeds. If you haven't already, you may want to consider implementing elements of the famous Mediterranean diet, or possibly the brain and heart-healthy version called the MIND Diet. Both can be found online. One important area to note while we're on the subject of nutrition is that diabetes has been closely linked with neurocognitive diseases. The science is still expanding on the subject. The current thinking is around how diabetes affects the vascular system in the brain and may drive other processes that trigger or accelerate pathologies that could result in the expression of Dementia. Please do all you can to reduce the assaults on your brain and eliminate diabetes related risk factors. Trim back highly processed and chemically laden foods and beverages in your diet. Even those with fake sweeteners are reported to mimic similar destructive forces as real sugar. Try local natural honey in limited amounts as a more healthful alternative for added sweetness. Also focus on whole grain food sources and refrain to the degree possible from processed white flour foods and other gluten-rich foods and beverages. Okay, there you have it. That's a lot to think about. Well, we are about halfway through this program and so much great information on brain care has been shared with you, but now I want to suggest you put me on pause. Take a 10 minute break, let your brain process what you've heard so far. Then come back and start up again. There's so much more to know, so I look forward to catching up with you again after the break. Oh, goody, you are back. Thank you for returning. Now let's get restarted and turn our attention to hydration. It's pretty simple overall. Our bodies are made up of 60% water. Indeed, the brain and heart are composed of 73% water, so drink water and other non-sugary beverages throughout the morning and afternoon. Not doing so can impair cognitive performance as the day wears on, and since I know you want to be in tiptop shape at all times, thirst is an easy one to solve. Exercise your mind. Keeping your brain stimulated through mental activities is crucial for maintaining cognitive function. Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, crosswords, reading or learning a new skill or language. Continuous mental stimulation helps strengthen neural connections and can even reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age. Another way to express exercising your mind, is to stay curious. Get adequate sleep quality. Sleep is essential for brain health and overall well-being. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes the day's information, and eliminates toxins. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night to allow your brain the rest it needs to function optimally. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help improve sleep quality and manage stress. Chronic stress can harm the brain and impair memory and cognitive function. Practice stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature. Do what they call forest bathing. Yes, it's a real thing. Look it up. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness can help mitigate the negative impact of stress on the brain. Stay socially connected. Social interaction is vital for brain health. Engaging in meaningful conversations, spending time with friends and family, and participating in social activities helps stimulate the brain and ward off feelings of loneliness and isolation. Maintaining strong social connections is associated with better cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Protect your head. This is often overlooked, but it's a biggie as they say, because if you think about it, yes, think after all, it's where all the brain activity takes place. Protecting it from assault, injury and infection is job number one. Head trauma can have lasting effects on brain health, so it's essential to take precautions to prevent incidents. Wear helmets when biking or participating in sports. Buckle up in the car and take steps to prevent falls, especially as you age. Moreover, concussions caused by a severe blow to the head, once or multiple times where you might even black out or go unconscious, can have deleterious effects on your short and long-term brain health. You see those who play contact sports, people involved in motor vehicle accidents, cyclists, construction workers, military personnel, and even someone who slips and falls in their home and hits their head on a hard surface, can experience a concussion. Don't play around with a head injury or concussion. Take it seriously. Get medical help and follow their advice for recovery. As Sergeant Phil Esterhaus used to say on the hit TV series "Hill Street Blues": "Be careful out there." Okay, next. Here's something you might not have heard before. Your ears should be protected to help protect your thinking abilities. After all, they are part of your head. In fact, your ears are like direct sensory collectors for your brain. You see, large-scale studies have found possible links between hearing loss and the development of cognitive impairments. The facts behind those findings are still being understood, but suffice it to say that two things we can imagine are happening. One, if you have trouble hearing, you might not register what someone has said, so it looks to the outside world as memory loss. And two, we're not hearing clearly. The brain has to work extra hard to pick out intelligible sounds against the backdrop of surrounding noise. That may take precious cognitive processing power away from one critical brain function or another, and redirect it to less beneficial noise-cancellation efforts. The whole of the experience may cause cognitive stress on your thinking abilities. The bottom line is protect your hearing and consider hearing aids. They may greatly help improve your brain health. Not dissimilar to hearing loss, difficulties with your vision and sense of smell may be linked to the development of cognitive deficits. The takeaways: get your eyes checked regularly and keep up with corrective glasses or contact lens prescriptions if you need them. Plus, use appropriate strength and higher quality reading glasses. Regularly schedule your screenings for cataracts or glaucoma. Likewise, pay attention to one of our more primitive fight or flight senses, your nose and sense of smell. Protect it and don't suffer from endless stuffiness or post-nasal drip. Keep your nose as clean as possible. Along the same lines as taking care of the sense organs already mentioned, your tongue, teeth and gums are also located in your head and provide direct pathways to your brain. They may play a vital role in fermenting infections linked to neuroinflammation in the brain. That condition is similar to the redness and inflammation that occurs when you cut or bruise your hand, for example. So what do you do? Brush and floss your teeth and gums regularly. Consider using a tongue scraper to remove any nasty bits and at the same time, improve your breath. Visit your dentist for regular checkups. Get ahead of any tooth decay, and as an added benefit, have them check for potential signs of mouth cancers. Also, please quit smoking if you do smoke. Apart from the impact on your vascular health, anything you smoke comes into direct contact with your mouth and nose, and most importantly, your lungs. The health of your lungs significantly affects the health of your brain. Why, your lungs take the air you breathe, separate out oxygen, and put that life force into your bloodstream. This oxygen-rich blood then acts as a necessary ingredient for your body, including your brain. After all, your brain begins to fail about four minutes after the loss of oxygen, not to mention the similar effects on oxygen flow to your brain that conditions such as COPD and sleep apnea can have. Lastly, try to limit alcohol and avoid drugs. Excessive alcohol consumption can damage brain cells and impair cognitive function. Limit alcohol intake to moderate levels or avoid it altogether to protect your brain health. Similarly, please avoid the use of recreational drugs as they can have detrimental effects on brain function and overall well-being. In conclusion, by incorporating simple lifestyle changes, you can nurture your brain and ensure that it continues to serve you as best as possible throughout your life. So take care of your brain. It's the only one you'll ever have. You learned, not only about the steps you can take to build a better brain, but you also heard the secrets most people are unaware of: cognitive reserve and neuroplasticity. Well, you are a jolly lot, and being with you has been an absolute pleasure. Thanks so much for joining. 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 Horizons™ | Workshop 13 | Driving Concerns Video Module [13] Transcript Welcome. For many of us, driving means a sense of independence, freedom, self-reliance, autonomy, and adventure. Being told that you can no longer drive after 50-60 years of doing so, can be very hard on a person's sense of ego and independence. This video will focus on how to address safety concerns for people who are beginning to show signs of minor cognitive impairment, or possibly are in the very early stages of a diagnosed or undiagnosed disease, that is manifesting as the syndrome of Dementia. Let's start by pointing out that driving is a complex task requiring life and death decision-making, and all sorts of other important cognitive and physical capabilities. As a refresher, Dementia is not a disease. Instead, it is a cluster of progressive symptoms that result from one or more underlying brain diseases or disorders. Medically, it's a syndrome if the symptoms progress to the point of requiring help to complete one or more activities of daily living. That alone, coupled with other cognitive deficits that a doctor can assess, is usually enough to be diagnosed as Dementia. To be clear, if someone has been diagnosed with cognitive impairments advanced enough to be called Dementia, they should not drive, period. Full stop. In fact, most state motor vehicle laws prohibit a person from maintaining a driver's license in such cases. We agree. As our bodies age, it is common for changes to impact our ability to drive safely, and those changes can be downright dangerous for those whose brains are declining a bit faster than what we consider normal for one's age. Moreover, when it comes to driving, there are other people's lives to consider in addition to our own. These changes in ability include problems with depth perception, estimating distance and spacing, narrowing of peripheral vision, difficulty discerning shapes, staying in a lane and understanding road signs, remembering directions and rules of the road, knowing when to stop or speed up, having the motor reflexes to stop suddenly or change direction, keeping impulses in check under stressful conditions or situations. If someone is in the very early stages of cognitive impairment, it does not mean that the person must automatically stop driving. However, when there are noticeable declines in ability, discussing any concerns about driving is essential. Some individuals with minor cognitive impairment continue to maintain insight and self-awareness, and can recognize the need to limit their driving. It may mean that they stick to driving on very familiar roads, avoid days and times that usually have heavy traffic, avoid driving in the rain, sleet, or snow, or driving at dusk or at night. Recognize Any Driving Concerns When Being a Passenger Are they becoming lost in familiar places? Have they successfully used GPS directions on their phone, but now they're getting confused using the apps? As a passenger, observe if they mix up the brake and gas pedals, or have a hard time dealing with four-way stops. Do they drive too slowly and impede traffic, fluctuate in levels of alertness and drowsiness, see things or people that do not exist, become nervous and aggravated while driving, have difficulty changing lanes as well as entering or exiting the highway, have unexplained dents or scrapes, experience frequent fender benders, or damage the wheels or tires by bumping into curbs? What can you do? You may be able to obtain a formal driving evaluation by contacting your State Department of Motor Vehicles. Follow the guidelines for your state, but this type of evaluation should be repeated at regular intervals. Also, it's not uncommon for doctors and hospitals to refer individuals to occupational therapists. They should be able to help with various functional assessments, including driving skills. Make a list of transportation alternatives. Ask friends and family to offer car rides, and find out if there are any community volunteer groups that offer transportation help. Use on-call smartphone apps that summon a driver to the person, along with taxis. Eliminate the need to drive by using online shopping for home delivery of groceries and more. Some individuals and families even find ways for a barber or hairstylist to make home visits. Consider having a transportation buddy for socialization and support. You can also contact your Area Agency on Aging to determine what transportation services may be available in your area. It can become problematic if the person living with minor cognitive impairments progresses to Dementia and starts to lose the insight or knowledge that they are no longer safe to drive. They can resist. They can refuse to stop driving. Or maybe they agree to stop, but forget what they decided days later. Sometimes the only thing that makes them stop is having their doctor or medical professional take the blame, and write on the prescription pad a note that clearly states in large capital letters: DO NOT DRIVE. Alternatively, a private conversation with a non-medical authority figure, such as their faith leader, attorney, accountant, or financial advisor can make a difference. Getting them to come to grips with the change may take more than one approach. However, there are times when the spouse, adult child, or advocate must step in, to maintain the safety of the driver, passengers, other drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians. Before it's too late, consider hiding the keys, disabling the car, or taking it to the repair shop for work to be done, work that never seems to end. It may become necessary to find secure storage, or sell the vehicle. Selling the car to a family member at a good price benefits both the seller and the buyer. Donating it to a nonprofit, or giving it to a friend in need, may ease the pain of getting rid of it. This is often a tough time: parenting a parent, a reversal of roles. It is also a good opportunity to seek support to address your conflicted feelings, which can often include guilt, anger, and resentment. This is the time to remember that the overall goal is safety for the person with Dementia and other drivers or pedestrians on the road. This safety supersedes the person's anger and desire to drive. Addressing driving safety now is much easier than having to possibly address all that would be involved if someone is seriously injured or even killed on the road. When you are the one who takes away the keys or car, know that you are caring for that person in a way that fills in for the insight that is now lacking. By approaching driving concerns thoughtfully and proactively, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with Dementia while maintaining their dignity and independence and allowing them to live a more worry-free life. The subject of driving is stressful for all involved. Thank you for listening and watching. You are taking positive steps to help keep your loved one and others safe. Thank you again. I wish you peace on your journey. 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.

Click to Watch | Dementia Horizons™ | Workshop 1 | Understanding Dementia Video Module [01] Transcript Let's start by ensuring you clearly understand what the term Dementia means. Dementia itself is not a disease. This may be new to you. This may also be confusing: if it's not a disease, what is it? Dementia is a common use description and acts as a comprehensive umbrella term for a set of symptoms caused by one or more underlying diseases or disorders. This is a lot to take in, so let's explore the term "umbrella" in a bit more detail. Let's consider the umbrella term "flowers." There are numerous types of flowers. They vary in color, size, and shape; have been assigned scientific names; and each variety sets the timing for when buds turn into flowers. Examples might be roses, lilies, carnations, tulips, and many more. They're all slightly different, but still all flowers. The same holds true for Dementia, which again is an umbrella term. There are over 100 different types of disorders and conditions that may present themselves as Dementia. Each type or cause of Dementia will have its own uniqueness, its own way of expressing itself in the person. We could also compare the term Dementia to the umbrella term "cancer." In medical circles, like Dementia, there is a scientific term for cancer, oncology. There are many different types or causes of cancer: lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, leukemia, et cetera. Each type of cancer is different. Not all cancers are related to one another, and each type of cancer has particular symptoms, treatments, and possible outcomes based on the person themselves, very similar to Dementia. [The medical term for Dementia is a "Major Neurocognitive Disorder"] Features of Dementia Different types of Dementia generally express a particular cluster or group of symptoms. Some symptoms are recognizable immediately, while others may be a bit more subtle, and we'd consider those as clues. Some symptoms may appear first, and others may follow later or be less severe in one cause than another. When taken together, these cognitive symptoms are officially known as a syndrome, which is commonly called Dementia. In the medical world, the various causes of Dementia, like cancer, are labeled with a more scientifically sounding term: major neurocognitive disorder. What qualifies a condition to rise to the level of a major neurocognitive disorder, in essence, Dementia? One: there is evidence of substantial cognitive decline from a previous level of cognitive performance. Two: the symptoms are sufficient to interfere with living independently. Three: the symptoms do not occur exclusively due to a case of delirium. Four: the symptoms are not primarily attributable to mental disorders, for example, a major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Because of cellular and structural changes in the brain, the disease or disorders that underlie the syndrome of Dementia can significantly impact a person's ability to perform everyday tasks and activities, making the person less independent and requiring help from others to get through the day. If there are significant cognitive changes, you may notice the following, more obvious symptoms: Someone having difficulty understanding what others are saying, a difficulty that is not related to hearing loss. Trouble using language, writing, or difficulty retrieving the right words or names of familiar objects or people. Changes in short-term memory: it may be hard to hold on to new information, prompting repeated questions or statements. Inappropriate reasoning and poor judgment. Difficulty comprehending visual surroundings and mixing up colors, patterns, and shapes. In addition, because the brain directs all aspects of our bodily functions, changes in muscle or motor ability may occur, including how one walks, controls one's bowel and bladder, and even swallows. As you now have learned, the symptoms that create the syndrome of Dementia are usually much more than memory loss. If one is aware and paying close attention, there are many clues to cognitive changes that are worth investigating with your healthcare provider, especially if they seem unusual, inappropriate, or excessive. Some more subtle clues include withdrawing from conversations or public gatherings, inappropriate laughing or crying, swearing, disinhibition or aggression, sleep issues or vivid dreams where the person physically acts out their dreams, apathy, hallucinations, or even a slight tremor. And ask yourself, are these changes in behavior, personality, movement, and thinking persistent, or getting worse? Unfortunately, at this time in our scientific understanding, Dementia is by definition progressive, and many of the underlying causes do not have a cure, so let's pause and recognize that some information is sensitive and challenging to hear and absorb. You are not alone. However, your journey is unique to you or the person living with Dementia. Getting educated, like you are now, and support is essential for this journey. Okay, let's take a break. Please pause the video now to digest all you have learned so far. When you're ready to move on, restart the program. Welcome back. Let's continue. Dementia is found in countries worldwide and has no political or wealth boundaries. Everyone who has a brain is at risk, but it is more prevalent in older adults because age is the number one risk factor. I want to stress that Dementia is not an average expectation of aging. While it is expected that age is the number one risk factor, and generally people live longer, it is never normal. Dementia can also occur in children due to over 70 rare genetic disorders, and when it starts in adults 65 years of age or younger, it is called young-onset Dementia. Let's take a moment to talk about a condition called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. It is not considered Dementia. MCI is a modest decline in one or more cognitive abilities noticeable to the person, family, and friends. However, these minor changes do not generally interfere with day-to-day activities and the ability to live independently. It is a stage between the expected age-related decline in memory and thinking, and the more severe decline that takes place with Dementia. Some people living with MCI for a variety of reasons revert to their more expected baseline or their version of normal. To the casual observer, it may seem as if the person had their Dementia reversed or cured. This conclusion would be highly suspect. A far more practical explanation is that their cognitive impairments were caused by a treatable condition or that they made significant changes to their environment or lifestyle, which improved their overall brain health. That said, it's true that some people living with MCI will go on to develop Dementia. Now let's explore the five leading causes of Dementia. The first is Alzheimer's disease, a common form of Dementia characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain. The disease is named for Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who, in the early 1900s, first identified the hallmark pathology of a buildup of a sticky residue of beta-amyloid plaque between neurons, along with misfolded proteins called tau, which results in destructive tangled thread-like strands inside the structure of neurons. The first patient to be diagnosed by the doctor was a woman named August Dieter. After her death at the age of 55, Dr. Alzheimer examined her brain and reported his findings. One point to make here is that most people do not realize that scientific discoveries now point to the fact that Alzheimer's disease, as well as each of the other common forms of Dementia we're about to discuss, have subtypes. In essence, there's more than one type of Alzheimer's, for example. But that does not mean that all other causes of Dementia are related to Alzheimer's disease. That belief is medically incorrect, and all too often, people unknowingly misspeak and say Alzheimer's and related Dementias when they are referring broadly to Dementia or major neurocognitive disorders. Using just the word Dementia, especially in the non-medical realm of everyday use, usually works best as an umbrella term and is the most inclusive way to respectfully bring together all forms of Dementia. Said another way, Alzheimer's may cause Dementia, but not all causes of Dementia are Alzheimer's. One of the first classic clues of Alzheimer's disease is short-term memory loss. For example, a person will ask the same question over and over again, forgetting that others had answered them just minutes ago. A part of the brain, the hippocampus, responsible for recording new information and storing it in our working memory, starts to shrink. This critical structure loses volume and mass and becomes less functional, hindering the person's ability to store new information. A second cause is vascular dementia, also called, in more medical terms, cerebrovascular disease. This occurs with reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to mini-strokes or other vascular issues. A common feature is a difficulty processing information and planning, and a step-like progression of impairment. Lewy body Dementia is a third major cause. It is named for Dr. Frederick Lewy, who discovered microscopic malformed proteins in the brain that create abnormal deposits or bodies that affect thinking, behavior and mood. Vivid dreams, loss of motor control and hallucinations are common clues. The damaged brain proteins which contribute to the causes of Lewy body Dementia also occur in Parkinson's disease, and the two diseases are often considered two ends of the same spectrum. Frontotemporal Dementia, FTD, also known as frontotemporal degeneration, is a fourth cause affecting the brain's front and sides. This leads to significant and unusual personality, behavior, movement, and language changes. They can be socially inappropriate, impulsive, and lack emotional connections or empathy. The fifth significant condition is what we call mixed Dementia. This is a combination of Dementia pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease and vascular Dementia co-occurring. Each type or cause of Dementia shows slightly different changes in brain tissue and cognitive functioning. You may notice that a person may appear fine or normal from the outside, but fundamental changes occur within their brain cells and tissues. These changes can only be detected through advanced medical testing. To diagnose the root cause or causes, doctors are now combining in-person interviews and family histories with various screening tools and, if warranted, many different types of advanced brain scans and psychiatric and neuropsychological testing, as well as blood and spinal fluid tests, and may even include genetic testing. And yet, even after a diagnosis and despite the changes that come with Dementia, we are here to tell you that the quality of remaining life can be good and meaningful. But this takes work. It will require a willingness of family and friends to gain new knowledge and communication skills. As you engage with a person with Dementia, it's important to remember they cannot control what is happening to their brain. Their behaviors are not deliberate or manipulative. Seeing the person you love, who may look unchanged on the outside, exhibit challenging or unexpected behaviors can be emotionally difficult. However, the underlying truth is that they are undergoing profound neurological transformations and need your love and compassion. If you notice any changes in your loved one's cognitive abilities, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Timely identification and intervention of potentially reversible causes of cognitive impairment can substantially affect their well-being. While some conditions can be treatable, we also need to acknowledge a complicated truth. Most conditions underlying Dementia are unfortunately progressive and fatal. This can be a lot to absorb. Not all the information we share will be easy to hear. It will take time for the head and the heart to connect. Now, what are the key stages of Dementia? There are three main stages of Dementia, early, middle, and late. In the early stage of Dementia, individuals may exhibit subtle but noticeable changes in cognitive function. Memory lapses and difficulty recalling names or words become apparent. Routine tasks may take longer to complete, and organizational skills may decline. While these changes may be subtle, they can impact daily life. Individuals may also experience shifts in mood or personality, such as increased irritability or anxiety. Despite these challenges, individuals in the early stage of Dementia often maintain some level of independence, and may still engage in familiar activities. Early intervention support and understanding are crucial during this phase, to enhance the quality of life for both the individual and their caregivers. This is a necessary time to learn, identify resources, and plan for future changes and support. In the middle stage of Dementia, cognitive decline becomes more pronounced, and individuals require increased assistance with daily activities. Memory loss intensifies, and individuals may struggle to recognize familiar faces or places. Communication becomes more challenging with difficulties in expressing thoughts and understanding language. Behavioral changes, such as restlessness or distress, may become more apparent, and individuals often need assistance with basic tasks like dressing, eating, and personal hygiene. Mobility may be affected, leading to challenges in walking and balance. As a care partner, you must make greater adaptations to provide a safe and supportive environment. Middle-stage Dementia marks a critical period for you to expand your knowledge and seek additional support to navigate the evolving complexities of care. In the late stage of Dementia, individuals experience a significant decline in cognitive and physical functioning. They rely on others for daily care, including eating, dressing, and toileting. Communication becomes severely limited with minimal or no verbal abilities. Mobility is often lost, leading to a reliance on a wheelchair or bed. Swallowing difficulties may arise, increasing the risk of aspiration, which means food or fluid is inhaled into the lungs. Changes in behavior and personality persist. That said, the person at their very core remains. Some will say their soul remains. It is up to the people who surround them, care for them and love them to learn how to connect in different ways, such as music and touch. As the brain function continues to decline, individuals in the final stage of Dementia require attentive and compassionate end-of-life care. This stage emphasizes the importance of prioritizing comfort, sensory communication, and respecting the individual's final wishes, focusing on providing support and dignity during their last moments. Amidst all these changes and stages, the ability to receive love remains. Thank you for taking the time to become more knowledgeable. A clearer understanding of Dementia is essential in creating a compassionate, informed, and loving path forward. Again, thank you for joining me on your journey. 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.

To some people, the phrase “knowledge is power” means learning the facts and talking to experts. Other people may feel the phrase describes mindfulness and self-determination. For the individuals and families for whom Dementia has entered their lives, both interpretations are important. Learning about such things as the different types of Dementia, ways to slow progression and to overcome challenges, as well as navigating the spectrum of legal issues and quality-of-life wishes creates a sense of empowerment. This approach enables good decision-making as well as makes it easier to converse with physicians and other healthcare professionals. Internet research is a good place to start. Be sure to use keywords that give you a manageable number of hits. For example, the word “Dementia” alone reveals 4.9 million results. Using a phrase such as “Lewy body, behavior, and medication” will improve the usefulness of your internet fact-finding efforts. Determining the reliability of internet information is another issue. Government resources, such as the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, are a source of high-quality patient and family-centered information. University medical centers, such as the University of California, San Francisco, Memory and Aging Center, are another source of dependable information. Medline Plus (National Library of Medicine) can direct you to high-quality sites. Internet searches, though certainly an important aspect of your fact-gathering journey, cannot replace conversation. So, be sure to include a telephone in your arsenal of fact-finding tools. The local Agency on Aging, the Dementia Society of America, as well as nearby hospitals, university medical schools, and Veterans Health Administration hospitals, are examples of organizations where you will find experts. Use their webpages to find the contact information of the people best able to help you. Self-Knowledge Is Power Mindfulness and self-determination are another way to interpret “knowledge is power.” Here, rather than facts, the emphasis is on self-reflection. Self-reflection can be something as simple as setting aside a few quiet and quieting moments each day for contemplation. Acknowledge feelings such as anger, sadness, abandonment, and fear. Use your feelings both as an entryway to mindfulness as well as an incentive to discover solutions to the challenges you face. Consider having a psychologist or a medical social worker guide you through this difficult period. Keeping a hand-written or word-processed diary is another tool. At the end of the day, perhaps just before going to bed, set aside a few moments to write. Don’t worry about grammar, spelling, or creating the perfect sentence. Just write. Pour your heart out. Document the events that made your day especially good or unbelievably horrible. Be sure to review your diary writings from time to time. Doing so will help you see past mistakes, appreciate progress, or give important insight into the best next steps. 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.

Obviously, a play on words we coined to help folks quickly understand that there's more to know about Dementia than most people think. It's like anything else; if you scratch just below the surface of any subject, you begin to understand that there's a whole world of knowledge just waiting to wade through. Sharing Useful Dementia Information This blog (short for weblog; see, you learned something already) will be attended to like a year-round garden: figure out what veggies you want and when you want them; create some space for planting, a great deal of ongoing nourishment; a basket full of tender love and care; and behold, after a while, there are fruits to thy labors. We will attempt to share some of our knowledge and experiences in life, caring for and about those with Dementia. As comedian George Carlin said, "brain droppings." Plus, there'll be some bits and pieces of wisdom we've harvested from all of those that have gone before us down this rocky, but awesomely challenging path. #dementia #alzheimers #caregiving #dementiasociety Welcome... Kevin President & Founder Chairman of the Board Dementia Society of America 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.

To The One I Love, I Will Not Miss You When you walk in the door, I will not know who you are. The familiar features of your face, I will not know. Your gentle hand upon my brow will be awkward. Your voice will be strange, but only to my ears. Please try and console my fears. As soon as your gentle touch reaches my heart, my heart will know who you are. Because only my thoughts are confused, my heart is and always will be true to you. Dementia is only in my thoughts, it cannot touch the memories in my heart. Please show me the pictures of our life together. Help control the fears that are only in my thoughts. My thoughts will not miss you, my heart will cry in pain. Help me now with love, pictures, and recordings of us. For soon Dementia will be my only master. And I will not miss you. 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.

Eliminating technology from the bedroom is an important topic we can discuss at great length. Suffice it to say, all of our gadgets and technology addictions are posing a significant threat to our brain and body health. The biggest reason we know of concerns the effects of artificial light on our brains, particularly laptops, tablets, and handheld devices. Research has found that LED lighting is suggestive to the brain. The blue light emitted by these types of devices simulates the light outdoors. You could be on your tablet, in bed, at ten o'clock at night, and the blue light is telling your brain that it is light outside. The human sleep-wake cycle is based on our relationship to the natural light in our environment. When we artificially induce daylight with these devices, particularly at night, the brain gets very confused. Hormones such as cortisol are produced and begin circulating in the bloodstream, causing a more alert state. Cortisol also suppresses certain hormones (e.g., melatonin) that are naturally present before sleep. Of course, this isn't just about smartphones and tablets. This phenomenon also extends to other electronic devices, such as televisions and radio stimulation. All devices should be taken into consideration, as it's not just that blue light tricking the brain into thinking it's light outside. Other types of stimulation disrupt sleep/wake cycles. Simple things like anticipating a text message, email, or phone call create a sense of anticipation that stimulates the brain, making it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. At the same time, there is also concern that EMF (electromagnetic field) waves can harm the brain. Timeout in the Bedroom! All of these electronic devices need to be turned off and left in places outside the bedroom, such as the kitchen, or wherever they will be used first thing the next morning. This approach is critically important training for children, as all they know is technology, and boundaries are becoming less clearly defined over time. The bottom line is that it's just not good for sleep hygiene to have these electronic devices in your bedroom. Give yourself a timeout! 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.