Late-Day Confusion One of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is late-day confusion. Often called “sundowning,” this phenomenon usually worsens as the days get shorter. If someone you care for has dementia, you may notice them getting more confused and agitated in late afternoon and evening. As the days get shorter, … Read more
Visiting a Patient in Hospice Care If you know someone in hospice care, you may have concerns about visiting. Will you disturb them? Will you make them feel worse? Will they be able to enjoy your visit? These are all valid questions, and their answers may depend on specific circumstances. However, there is one question … Read more
Seniors & Heat Most people see heat as a nuisance. But significant and prolonged summer heat is potentially deadly, especially to seniors. Nearly 400 deaths each year are attributed to heat waves in America. And most of those are seniors. This is a staggering thought. But it’s particularly disconcerting for seniors and those who care … Read more
Focus on Happiness Several months ago we began a series on happiness. The response was so positive that we’ve chosen to continue that topic in the first blog of each month. We’ve looked at what experts say about happiness and lots of practical suggestions. The Ultimate Source But as a Christian organization, we believe that … Read more
Focus on happiness Over the last few months, our first blog of each month has focused on happiness. Studies show that happy people have fewer aches and pains. Happy people have better relationships. Happy people are healthier and live longer in general. What many people might fail to recognize is that a terminal diagnosis does … Read more
Griefing is a part of life. One of the primary tenets of hospice care is to value death as a natural part of life. In the same way that we acknowledge the beginning of life, we acknowledge and respect its end. And a part of that acknowledgment is grief. Everyone experiences grief, just as everyone … Read more
Starting With Happiness Last month we started a series on happiness. We’ll do this at the beginning of each month for a while. Why? Hospice and Palliative care patients, understandably, often suffer from temporary or clinical depression. Families and friends often do not know how to help. So we’re starting each month spending time looking … Read more
Spring is Here! Spring is here! That means different things to different people. For kids it means more hours playing outside. For families it may mean planning a vacation. But for all of us, it means getting ready for storms! Spring storms can present problems for anyone, but if you’re a senior, it can be … Read more
Some hospice patients are able to continue doing many of the things they love for quite some time. However, for many, that is not possible. Many factors related to life-limiting or terminal conditions can change what we’re able to do. But activity, as much as is possible, is healthy and recommended for most patients. So … Read more
Happiness Part 1: 5 Activities to Increase Your Happiness What is happiness? Most of us have an idea. You might say feeling satisfied with your life. I might say feeling loved. Scientists describe happiness as a general sense of well-being. I think most of us would agree with that. What doesn’t promote happiness? Though it’s … Read more
If you’re a caregiver for a family member or loved one, chances are your car is an important part of that role. And if your car is not well-suited, it can make your job a lot more difficult. What makes a caregiver-friendly car? If you’re making a change, ask these questions before choosing your next … Read more
It’s impossible to go anywhere in February without being reminded of Valentine’s Day. If you have a loved one in hospice or palliative care, buying them a valentine card might be a great idea. But there are lots of other ways to show them how much they mean to you. During this “month of love,” here … Read more
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