We may try to avoid it, shut it out, ignore it, and minimize it, but we can’t escape this COVID-19 pandemic. Thinking “happy thoughts” about it won’t make it go away, but our thoughts (and attitudes) have a lot to do with how we cope with this new, unexpected life.
When dementia strikes an older family member in the Lehigh Valley area, the effect on children can be overlooked, especially when the children knew “Grandma and Grandpa” in earlier, more “normal,” days.
“I think a smaller, self-contained, autonomously functioning residence is far better than [one with] long hallways, semi-private rooms or even three- and four-person rooms.”
Although the average person can lose sleep for various reasons, research has shown that Alzheimer’s patients have a greater tendency to experience altered sleep patterns that can keep them awake at night. It seems Alzheimer’s affects the brain in some unknown way.
For many dementia and Alzheimer patients, this day may or may not mean anything. Every generation has its warriors, and they deserve at least a moment’s notice and recognition for their place in America’s history.
Medications can turn on you if you take them in the wrong doses, at the wrong times, or don’t take them at all. This is a danger for older adults who may be taking multiple medications and may have memory issues.