How to Approach Fear and Paranoia

Understanding Fear and Paranoia in People Living with Dementia – Fear and paranoia in people living with dementia can sometimes appear irrational or unfounded, but there are often underlying reasons that, with some detective work, can be identified and addressed. While these behaviors may not always stem from unmet needs, they often arise from the brain’s altered ability to…

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Why Understanding ‘Why’ Matters

Why Understanding ‘Why’ Matters- In Alzheimer’s and dementia care understanding the “why” behind behaviors is not just important—it’s transformative. Here’s why understanding ‘why’ matters:  Whether you’re a caregiver on the front lines, a manager coordinating staff, or an owner overseeing operations, this insight forms the foundation of compassionate, effective, and sustainable care. Responsive behaviors like agitation, aggression, or withdrawal…

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Caregiver Coping Mechanisms

Using common coping mechanisms to handle responsive challenges – When caregivers are overworked, tired, stressed and, possibly, untrained their responses to responsive behaviors from individuals in their care may not be ideal. That doesn’t mean they don’t mean well, but they may have difficulty applying the right strategies. Here are some common coping mechanisms they may use to handle…

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Beyond Bingo!

Beyond Bingo! Creating joyful, purposeful moments for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia goes far beyond bingo. In dementia care, one of the greatest challenges is finding activities that truly enrich the lives of individuals while meeting their unique cognitive and physical needs. Too often, activity schedules are filled with games like Bingo—an enjoyable pastime, yes, but one…

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Touch: A Vital Connection

Touch: A Vital Connection in Human Health and Well-being… Touch is one of our most fundamental senses, essential from the moment we are born. Research shows that touch,  a vital connection, has profound effects on our mental, emotional, and physical health, affecting everything from mood regulation to stress relief and even social bonding. The skin is the largest organ…

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Subtle Signs of Progression

Subtle Signs of Progression – Caregivers, especially those working long hours, often face both physical and emotional exhaustion, making it difficult to closely monitor every change in the behaviors of residents with dementia. However, there may be some subtle signs of progression into a more advanced stage of dementia, even when caregivers don’t have the time for deep analysis….

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Early Detection and Intervention

Early Detection and Intervention in Alzheimer’s Disease: Why It Makes a Significant Difference Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that worsens over time, but early detection and intervention can play a crucial role in managing its impact. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, identifying the disease in its early stages opens the door to various benefits for the…

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They May Leave

Yes, They May Leave – The concern that they may leave after receiving training is a common one, and not unfounded, among executive directors in long-term care residences, but it’s important to consider the bigger picture. Here are several compelling arguments to counter this concern: Retention Through Investment  Investing in employee training can increase staff loyalty. When employees feel…

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Critical Role of Long-Term Care Preceptors

The Critical Role of Long-Term Care Preceptors: Selection, Training, and Compliance In the evolving landscape of long-term care (LTC), ensuring high-quality resident care and effective staff support is more crucial than ever. One of the pivotal roles in achieving these goals is that of the long-term care preceptor, sometimes referred to as a “champion.” These individuals play a vital role…

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