News
8 Person-Centered Approaches to Eating Assistance in Late-Stage Dementia
Among the many challenges dementia caregivers face, assisting with eating is a difficult and sensitive aspect. It demands a soft touch. A person-centered approach, if you will. We’ll always advocate for person-focused care, regardless of your loved one’s condition – but ESPECIALLY when it comes to eating assistance in late-stage dementia. They won’t eat. If […]
Nurturing Comfort: Dementia Care Pain Management in End Stages
In end-stage dementia, pain often wears a cloak of invisibility, sometimes even to the trained eye. Last month, we discussed how your loved one may be “here, but not here.” Naturally, with those dual realities come communication issues and confusion. Dementia care pain management touches the core of compassionate caregiving. Unfortunately, care partners are often […]
Dual Realities of Dementia Care: ‘He’s There, But He’s Not’
Let’s explore a facet of dementia care that often leaves caregivers with conflicting emotions: the co-existence of presence and absence. Dementia is a reality where two diametrically opposed things can be true – he’s there, but he’s not there. I’ve heard that so many times as a Board-certified Patient Advocate. “Mom’s there” or “Dad’s there,” […]
Navigating Dementia Truths: Why Persons Living with Dementia May Seem to Lie
A few years ago, I wrote a series of blogs here about common Alzheimer’s and dementia behaviors. It was well-received by our readership and We Are Dementia Strong podcast listeners. The behaviors and symptoms included things like: I’m here today to help navigate what could be an uncomfortable topic: lying. In recent months, I’ve learned […]
Beyond the Clock: How Long Can My Loved One Be in Hospice Care?
I get this question a lot: “How long can a dying loved one be in hospice care?” Unfortunately, I don’t get this question early enough in the life-care planning process from many Patient Advocacy clients. (Although, in my experience, I always try to find a way to bring it up tactfully as a necessary discussion.) […]
Board-Certified Patient Advocate: A Guide & Protector of Autonomy
I’ve been inspired recently. That’s not to say life has been fun or easy. If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you’re likely familiar with my dual personal and professional roles as a Board-certified Patient Advocate and care partner to my life partner, Brian. While guiding elders and families here in the Clearwater, FL […]