What does “Showtime” mean?

This is probably a term that you are not familiar with but have seen it happen, especially in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia, there is a surprising phenomenon that we caregivers have seen many times, and it is referred to as “Show Time.” When people with dementia are still cognitive enough to realize there is a problem, they often have the ability to put on a convincing façade of normalcy for a short period of time, say ten or 15 minutes. It is an ability that can be quite exasperating for the caregiver.
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Wandering is a clear and present danger

I have some friends who have a toddler. They recently invited me over to see their new swimming pool. I was astonished because there was no fence around the pool, so I asked the husband, “Don’t you need a fence to protect your child?” He said, “What for? He hasn’t fallen in yet.”

Sorry, that’s not a true story. I made it up, but it is exactly the kind of logic I have heard many times from caregivers when I warn them about the dangers of wandering. I’ve heard them say, “We don’t have a problem. He hasn’t wandered yet,” “He does not leave my side,” or “I cannot be out of his/her eye sight.” Continue reading “Wandering is a clear and present danger”

Dementia includes more than just memory loss?

Normal aging includes a certain amount of memory loss, but dementia is not normal aging. Dementia is a series of symptoms that is most often associated with – but definitely not limited to – memory loss. Due to one cause or another, the brain has become diseased and is abnormally dying. The process is progressive, irreversible, and fatal. Until you notice serious and more frequent memory loss, plus other symptoms, you should not worry about a little forgetfulness. Continue reading “Dementia includes more than just memory loss?”

Are you prepared for an emergency when caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s or dementia?

I am sure there is someone saying, “It has never happened to me,” “I will not have to evacuate,” or “I know where everything is.” This may be true, but when you are caring for someone who may not be competent to assist with the evacuation, you must be prepared and ready prior to the emergency.

Because we live in Florida, we think of hurricanes as the most likely cause for evacuation, but this may not be the only emergency we must be prepared for. Anything that will remove you from your place of safety, routine, and comfort can be an emergency to a person living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Continue reading “Are you prepared for an emergency when caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s or dementia?”

Think About Making Safety A Priority Before It Becomes A Problem

Safety is a very big issue when caring for a person with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that will rob someone of many of their abilities. Judgment is compromised, time or place may not be recognized, behaviors are irrational at times, physical abilities are affected, senses and skills will decline. The best way to deal with the situation is to be proactive enough that it does not become an emergency. Continue reading “Think About Making Safety A Priority Before It Becomes A Problem”

For people with dementia, beware of the Baker Act

In 1971, Florida State Representative Maxine Baker, a dedicated mental health advocate from Miami, proposed legislation intended to protect the basic rights and treatment of individuals who were mentally ill. Her efforts resulted in a comprehensive body of law, so called The Baker Act in her honor.

The Baker Act provides that judges, law enforcement officers, physicians, and mental health officials can initiate a process to involuntary institutionalize individuals who 1) appear to be mentally ill, or 2) are likely to cause harm to themselves, harm to others, or are self-neglectful. Once “Baker Acted,” these individuals are taken for evaluation for a minimum of 72 hours at a state-authorized psychiatric center. Alzheimer’s and dementia, which many regard as disability rather than mental illnesses, fits criteria #2 of the Baker Act. Continue reading “For people with dementia, beware of the Baker Act”

Traveling or Staying Home for the Holidays with your Loved One

The holidays can be a very difficult and stressful time of year for anyone, and this can be especially so for victims of dementia and their caregivers. There are lots of rituals and traditions that people think are important. You want to follow them so everything will be “normal.”

But, as a caregiver, your situation is anything but normal. You would like to have a “normal” holiday, but you may have to take a deep breath and make some adjustments for your situation. Consider the possibility that doing things differently for the sake of your loved one may bring positive memories for your family, rather than a holiday struggle with tradition. Continue reading “Traveling or Staying Home for the Holidays with your Loved One”

When is it time to take away the keys?

I facilitate a couple of support groups in Citrus County and one of the most frequently asked questions is, “When do I know it is time for my loved one to stop driving?”

This is a question that most caregivers face, and one of the most emotionally difficult questions they will face. The license to drive represents freedom, control, staying connected. For many it is a measure of adulthood and self worth. For some males it even represents masculinity. But at some point safety for the public and safety for your loved one will override all of these factors. When this time comes, someone has to be the bad guy. Continue reading “When is it time to take away the keys?”