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The Senior Community Lifestyle
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 Tell...
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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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Dear Donna: What Does a Senior Move Manager Do?
Dear Donna, My parents recently decided to move to a senior living community, and they asked me to assist them with the transition. I'd love to help them as much as possible, but I have no idea where to start. A friend of mine told me I should...
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4 Ways to Beat Caregiver Stress During the Holidays
Caregivers already have a lot on their plate. The emotional and physical toll of caregiving can be sizable, especially if a senior loved one has dementia. This makes them extra vulnerable to stress when the busy holiday season rolls around. If it's not managed...
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Is Alzheimer’s Disease Hereditary?
Dear Donna, I am the primary caregiver for my mother, who has Alzheimer’s disease. As her disease progresses, I can’t help but worry that I am eventually going to get it. Is Alzheimer’s disease hereditary? Is there a test I can take to find...
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Planning Holiday Travel With a Senior Loved One?
Planning a trip with a senior loved one can be challenging. You want them to enjoy their experience and feel included. At same time, you want them to be safe. While planning holiday travel, you may find yourself asking… Will it be fun for the...
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