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 […]
Caring For Dementia At Home: Ways To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
t’s St. Patrick’s Day and since you’re likely staying at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, here are a few ways to celebrate. Celebrating holidays can be challenging for seniors living with dementia at home and while they may not celebrate in the same ways as they used to, there are still many creative ways […]
Tips To Prevent Wandering In Alzheimer’s Disease And Related Dementia
Wandering is a common behavior associated with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). Understandably, many people worry about their family member wandering off to an unknown location where they will be alone. Yet, while wandering can pose safety issues, there are many ways to prevent your loved one from becoming lost or scared. For those […]