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.

Kevin Jameson Presenting at Inaugural Dance Against Dementia Event in 2013 | Warrington, PA Dateline: December 1, 2014 Press Release: PR.com Dementia Society of America, led by Kevin Jameson, is a nonprofit organization that serves the Dementia community. Jameson announced recently that four new members have been selected to serve on the organization’s Board of Directors. The new members include a retired educator, a marketing professional, a journalist, and a video and social media expert. The new board members were installed as of October 1, 2014. Their terms will last through December 31, 2015. Blaine Greenfield, Professor Emeritus Blaine Greenfield taught college courses for over 35 years and headed his own marketing firm that assisted small- and mid-sized businesses. Six years ago, he took a new job title: “Rewirement” Expert-in-Training. As such, he continues to teach part-time and is active in several community organizations, including SCORE, SART, and Lessons in Leadership. And he publishes an online newsletter, BLAINESWORLD. Blaine now resides in Asheville, North Carolina. Patrick and Peggie Walsh Patrick Walsh, along with his wife and long-time business partner in The Walsh Group, Peggie Walsh, has experienced the role of family Dementia-caregiver and has been a stalwart advocate for person-centered care, alternative therapies, and the role that a positive mental attitude can play within the entire Dementia community. Pat is a professional web strategist and tracks everything to prove an effective return on investment. Mr. Walsh is marketing counsel to multiple nonprofits. Sandy DeHaven Sandy DeHaven has more than 35 years of experience in writing and public relations, working recently for newspapers and online news services. During her news tenure, she earned a handful of Keystone Press Awards presented by the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association. Sandy knows first-hand the challenges and opportunities Dementia can present to families, friends, and co-workers. Tony Martin Tony Martin travels the United States and beyond as a Fortune 500 corporate marketing professional specializing in social media, video production, and editing. Tony graduated from New Jersey City University in Jersey City, New Jersey, and from the Mason Gross School of the Arts. Despite his tens of thousands of devoted Twitter followers and YouTube viewers, he keeps his perspectives on what life is all about... helping others and making a difference in the world. Tony seeks to introduce the up-and-coming generations to Know Dementia®! He lives in the New York City metro area. Kevin Jameson and the Dementia Society Makes Education the Mission The mission of the Dementia Society of America (DSA) is to educate and raise awareness of the broad spectrum of conditions collectively known as Dementia. Many healthcare professionals and policymakers see Dementia as a growing worldwide epidemic. Represented Dementias include Alzheimer's Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia, Vascular Dementia, Dementia resulting from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), and many others. Those Facing Dementia Epidemic Need Support DSA provides non-medical materials and resources, and encourages those who provide exemplary Dementia caregiving, counseling, support, and engagement. DSA promotes those who develop prevention initiatives, create innovative products, services, and solutions. DSA also seeks to support programs regularly within continuing care communities and in public Dementia-friendly forums that emphasize meaningful therapies for those living with Dementia and their caregivers, such as music and singing, dance and movement, the visual arts, touch, and sensory stimulation. You can learn more at www.dementiasociety.org. 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 here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1024] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today we're going to talk about how to prepare for vacations with people who are living with Dementia. Traveling can still be enjoyable, but it does require extra planning, patience, and thoughtful choices to keep everyone safe and comfortable. Start with simple planning. Choose a destination that is calm, familiar, and not too far away. A place with predictable routines, quiet spaces, and easy walking areas can help reduce confusion and stress. Try to avoid crowded locations or long trips that involve many changes. Prepare ahead of time. Make a checklist of important items: medications, medical information, comfortable clothing, snacks, and familiar objects such as a favorite blanket or photo. These comforting items can help the person feel secure. If you are flying or staying in a hotel, call ahead to ask about early boarding, quiet rooms, or special accommodations. Keep routines steady. A person living with Dementia often feels safest when daily patterns stay the same. Try to keep regular meal times, rest times, and bedtime schedules. Too much activity in one day can lead to confusion or agitation, so plan breaks and quiet moments. Stay patient and flexible. Travel can bring surprises, so allow extra time for everything: getting dressed, walking, eating, and bathroom breaks. Use simple explanations and gentle reassurance if the person feels confused or worried. Safety is key. Make sure the person carries identification that includes your contact information. Consider wearing a medical ID tag. The Dementia Society of America has created Operation Keepsafe. For this reason, please check the website for more information. You want to always keep an eye out for wandering, especially in busy areas. With careful planning, kindness, and a slower pace, vacations can still offer joy, connection, and meaningful memories. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. 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 here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1016] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're talking about hospice care, a special kind of care for people who are near the end of life. Hospice focuses on comfort, not cure. It is meant for people who have a serious illness and are expected to live about six months or less, based on a doctor's judgment. Surprisingly, hospice may be paused depending on improvements to the person's rate of decline. On the other hand, if appropriate, it may also be renewed by the medical team after the first six months. The main goal of hospice is to help the person feel peaceful, comfortable, and supported. Hospice care helps with pain, breathing trouble, anxiety, and other distressing symptoms. It also provides support for family members and caregivers. Hospice care can be given in the person's home, a nursing home, an assisted living facility, or a dedicated hospice center. A team of people usually helps, including doctors, nurses, social workers, home health aides, chaplains, and volunteers. They all work together to meet the person's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Choosing hospice does not mean giving up. It means focusing on comfort and quality of life, rather than pursuing treatments that may no longer be effective. You can also stop hospice at any time if the situation changes. Hospice can help people with many illnesses, including advanced Dementia, cancer, heart failure, and others. It is often paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. Simply talking about hospice early, openly, and often can help families make better decisions and prepare in a calm, loving way. Having a conversation about hospice preferences in midlife instead of just at the end of life is becoming more common. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. 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 here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1109] Welcome, and thank you for joining me. Today we are talking about ways to pay for Dementia care. As you might guess, this is a complex issue with no simple answers, but I'll do my best to give you the big picture overview. Where are some places to look for help paying for Dementia care? First, there is Medicare, a government health insurance program for people age 65 and older. Medicare may cover doctor visits, hospital stays, medicines, and short-term rehab care, but it does not pay for long-term care, like help at home or in a safe and secure care community, often referred to as memory care. Medicaid is another government program for people with low income and limited savings. Medicaid may help pay for long-term care, including nursing homes, and in some cases, care at home. Each state has its own rules, so it's important to check with your local Medicaid office. Some people use private health insurance or long-term care insurance if they have it. These plans may help with services that Medicare does not cover. Others may need to use personal savings, retirement income, or help from family to pay for care. In some cases, veterans benefits can help if the person with Dementia served in the military. Some states or local programs also offer financial help for caregivers: home care, support, respite or adult day programs. Payment for family caregiving depends on several factors, including state regulations, which vary across the country and set different rules, eligibility requirements, and payment rates. In addition, often the person receiving care must meet specific criteria for a program or insurance to cover the costs. The level of care needed, such as the amount of assistance required and the complexity of tasks is a key factor. In some cases, the caregiver's experience or training may be considered with certain programs requiring specific qualifications or certifications. Who can help with figuring out the best strategy for Dementia care? It's a good idea to talk with a professional geriatric care manager, elder care attorney, or financial planner who understands Dementia care. They can help you look at your options and plan ahead. Paying for Dementia care can be challenging, but knowing what help is available can make a big difference. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. 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 here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1122] Welcome, and thank you for joining me. What are Activities of Daily Living, also known as ADLs? These are basic tasks people need to do every day to live safely and independently. Health professionals and insurance companies often use ADLs to help determine the type of care or support a person may need. The six basic activities of daily living: Bathing: being able to wash your body safely, either on your own or with some help. Dressing: putting on and taking off clothes, including using fasteners like buttons or zippers. Eating: being able to feed yourself, though this does not include cooking. Toileting: getting to and from the toilet, using it properly, and cleaning up afterward. Continence: being able to control your bladder and bowel movements or manage incontinence if needed. And lastly, one broad set of activities that include transference and mobility. If a person has trouble with one or more of these activities, they may need help from a loved one, care partner, professional home care services, or an assisted living setting. Understanding ADLs helps families and healthcare teams make good decisions about independence and safety. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. 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.