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The Senior Community Lifestyle
What Is the Difference between Assisted Living and Independent Living?
Dear Donna, I am trying to help my parents find a senior living community. I am not sure if I should be looking for an independent living community or an assisted living community. Can you please explain the difference between independent...
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What Causes Wandering in Adults with Alzheimer’s?
Wandering is a common behavior among people with Alzheimer’s disease. An estimated 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander. This behavior is dangerous regardless of what stage of the disease they are in. The longer they are missing, the...
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How Do I Start a Conversation with My Mom about Assisted Living?
Dear Donna, After visiting my mother over the holidays, I noticed a few signs that she may no longer be able to live on her own. She had dishes piled in the sink and her laundry basket was overflowing. This is very unusual for my mother because...
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6 Ways Walking Leads to Healthier Aging
Age-related changes can make it difficult for seniors to exercise regularly. Reduced mobility, a fear of injury, and a lack of confidence can make exercise unappealing. There is one form of exercise that is suitable for most seniors: walking....
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How Can I Tell If It’s Time for My Uncle to Give up Driving?
Dear Donna, My uncle recently turned 86 years old. He’s in pretty good shape for his age, but I’m concerned that he is getting too old to drive. How can I tell if it’s time for my uncle to give up driving? Sincerely, Melissa from Holland, MI How to...
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7 Tips for Talking to Young Children about Alzheimer’s Disease
Understanding Alzheimer’s disease is challenging for people of all ages. For children, the disease can be downright confusing and difficult to accept. In efforts to protect their children, parents often avoid talking about a grandparent’s...
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How Does the Family and Medical Leave Act Help Caregivers?
Dear Donna, My dad’s health recently took a turn for the worse. I want to take time off, but I am concerned I will lose my job. My coworker said I should look in to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). I thought that was for new parents....
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5 Experience Gifts to Give a Senior This Holiday Season
When people think about gifts, they often think of tangible items and forget about gifts that are experienced. But these types of gifts can be great for seniors for various reasons. Experience gifts are often more thoughtful, they take up less...
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Activities for Kids to Do with a Grandparent Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease
Dear Donna, My children had a great relationship with their grandfather until he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. After he moved to assisted living, their relationship began to deteriorate. Every time my kids visit him, they complain that they are bored and...
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4 Repetitive Tasks That Help Decrease Alzheimer’s Agitation
Repetition is a common behavior among adults with Alzheimer’s disease. Those affected may repeat words, questions, or activities. This is their attempt to comfort themselves when they are feeling agitated. Adults with Alzheimer’s disease, especially those...
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Holiday Shopping for a Family Member With Dementia?
Dear Donna, Ever since my grandmother was diagnosed with dementia, I find it impossible to shop for her. Nothing I give her ever seems to make it out of its original packaging. Do you have any advice on how to find a gift for a family member...
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How Respite Care Helps Caregivers Manage the Busy Holiday Season
The holidays are the busiest time of the year for most people. Caregivers, who already have an overbooked schedule, can quickly become overwhelmed with the added stress. The increased workload can cause them to put their own needs on hold,...
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