A Song from the Past
Later that evening, you put on some music while preparing tea. Instead of choosing something random, you select a song from their younger years—perhaps from when they were 18 to 25. A familiar melody fills the room, and you glance over to see their expression change. Maybe their fingers tap against the armrest, or they […]
The Magic of Fresh Air
On a particularly sunny afternoon, you suggest stepping outside. You help them into their coat, feeling a bit uncertain—will they enjoy it, or will they want to return inside right away? As you step onto the porch, they take a deep breath. The crisp air, the gentle warmth of the sun, and the sound of […]
A February of Connection: Small Changes, Big Impact
February is a month that reminds us of the importance of love, connection, and companionship. For those supporting a loved one with dementia, finding ways to strengthen that bond doesn’t always require grand gestures—sometimes, it’s the little things that make all the difference. Take a moment to picture this: You’re sitting beside your loved one, […]
Fiblets Are Acts of Kindness, Not Deception
As we step into a new year, consider how you communicate with your loved one. For those living with dementia, reality can sometimes shift. Instead of correcting them, using fiblets—gentle validations of their perception—can bring peace and harmony to your interactions. If they mention something from the past as though it’s happening now, join them […]
Recognize That Your Loved One Is Doing the Best They Can
The beginning of the year is a natural time to reflect on our perspectives, especially in caregiving. Living with dementia can be overwhelming for both the individual and their loved ones, but keeping in mind that your loved one is doing the best they can with their abilities can bring clarity and peace. When behaviors […]
Meet Them Where They Are
A new year often brings ambitions for progress, but for caregivers of individuals with dementia, the goal can be simpler yet profoundly impactful: meeting your loved one where they are. January offers an opportunity to practice acceptance. Whether they’re recalling the past or navigating an emotional moment, stepping into their reality—instead of trying to pull […]
Slow Down and Match Your Pace with Your Loved One
As the first month of the year unfolds, it’s easy to get caught up in resolutions and the drive to achieve more. But when caring for someone with dementia, January is a gentle reminder to shift gears and embrace the beauty of slowing down. Matching your pace with your loved one’s isn’t just about movement; […]
Talking Turkey: Celebrating Thanksgiving With Dementia
Breaking bread with loved ones is a special time to make memories together and sitting down for Thanksgiving with dementia can be one of the most memorable meals of the year. If you have a loved one who is living with dementia, you may be concerned about shifts in the family dynamic. Caregivers often experience […]
Making Of The Most Of The Holidays With Dementia (And Covid-19!)
The holiday season is a joyful time, but it can also be stressful — especially now, as we try to navigate celebrations during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on understanding the impacts that COVID is having on people who are living with dementia, making holidays with dementia a topic of concern for the CERTUS Institute. […]
Celebrating Father’s Day When Dad Has Dementia
Celebrating holidays during a pandemic is not easy for anyone, much less when dad has dementia. You may be left wondering how to celebrate in a meaningful way. You are not alone. About 15.7 million family caregivers care for someone who has dementia. [Alzheimer’s Association. (2015). 2015 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures.] Father’s Day is a […]
