by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Nov 22, 2013 | Alzheimer's and Dementia, Caregiving, Uncategorized
If a senior loved one has been exhibiting some of the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, their primary care physician has likely referred them to a neurologist for more testing. For families, the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is a surprisingly long process. That is because there is no conclusive test that can be performed to definitely diagnose the disease. Instead, the diagnosis requires other illnesses and diseases that can mimic Alzheimer’s disease be ruled out. Those diseases can include a thyroid disorder, severe vitamin B12 deficiency, some medications, hydrocephalus, tumors, alcoholism and more.
How can you help your aging loved one prepare for their first visit with a neurologist?
Here are few suggestions:
- Review with your loved one how active of a role they want you to play in the appointment. Do they want you to go in the examination room with them or wait in the lobby?
- Be sure you are clear on any pre-appointment protocols before the appointment. The neurologist might want to do bloodwork that requires your family member to fast ahead of time or they might want you to send copies of any testing already done to them a week before the appointment.
- Keep a symptom journal that is thorough but concise. You want to be able to quickly and clearly share concerns during your time with the neurologist.
- Make sure you have a list of medications they are taking including dosage amounts with you at the appointment.
What can you expect at the first neurologist visit?
The neurologist will likely follow a fairly standard protocol to determine if your senior loved one might have Alzheimer’s disease. That usually includes:
- A physical exam
- A neurological exam (reflexes, walking, muscle strength, coordination and balance)
- A mental status test
They will also likely order bloodwork to rule out a vitamin deficiency or thyroid disorder and some type of brain imaging. That could be a CT scan, an MRI or a PET scan.
The bottom line is to be prepared for all of this to take some time. No news isn’t necessarily bad news when you are waiting for the final word on an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
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by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Oct 1, 2013 | Alzheimer's and Dementia, Caregiving, Uncategorized
Flu season is making its way across Michigan again. Like the turning of the leaves, it is one thing we can count on returning every fall. For older adults and caregivers in Michigan, receiving the influenza vaccine is the best way to beat the bug. Because of our expertise in dementia care, families often turn to us with questions about the flu shot for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Q: Will Medicare or private health care insurance pay for the flu shot if my family member receives it in the Alzheimer’s care community where they live?
A: Medicare will pay for the vaccine. While private insurance coverage and co-pays vary by plan, most do pay for the flu shot. You may have to pay a deductible or co-pay. Check with your insurance provider to be sure.
Q: Will the vaccine cause my aging parent to get the flu?
A: Families often believe this myth and are especially concerned for a loved one who may already have a compromised immune system. The influenza vaccine does NOT cause the flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “The viruses contained in flu shots are inactivated (killed), which means they cannot cause infection.”
Q: Who has priority in receiving a flu vaccine?
A: In years where the vaccine is predicted to be in short supply, this is always a concern for families who have an elderly loved one. The good news is that the vaccine for the 2013-2014 flu season doesn’t seem to be in short supply. But in years where it is, The Center for Disease Control (CDC) establishes the priorities for the vaccine. Among those who typically have priority are:
- Children aged 4 months to 59 months
- Adults over the age of 50
- Those who live with a chronic pulmonary, cardiovascular (except hypertension), renal, hepatic, neurologic, hematologic, or metabolic disorder (including diabetes mellitus)
- Residents of nursing homes
- Healthcare personnel
- Caregivers and those who live with a caregiver
Q: Does Medicare require an order from a physician for the flu shot?
A: No. Medicare does not require a physician order for the flu shot.
Q: Is there anyone who shouldn’t receive a vaccine?
A: Those who have had a previous adverse reaction to the influenza vaccine should not receive it. The CDC typically recommends that “people with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) that occurred after receiving influenza vaccine and who are not at risk for severe illness from influenza should generally not receive vaccine.” If you are in doubt call your loved one’s primary care physician.
Are you a caregiver who regularly receives flu shot?
Has it prevented you from contracting the flu in years past?
Photo Credit
by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Jul 22, 2013 | Alzheimer's and Dementia, Uncategorized
Can a Pacemaker in the Brain Slow the Progression of Alzheimer’s?
Almost 180,000 people in Michigan live with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. By 2025, The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that number will climb to 190,000 people.
That is why families and caregivers in Michigan and across the country are closely following the promising new trials at The Johns Hopkins University and Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University. Over the past seven months, researchers at both medical universities have been conducting pacemaker trials on patients living with Alzheimer’s disease. Early results look encouraging.
The studies started in December of 2012 when surgeons at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine implanted pacemakers in the brain of two people with Alzheimer’s Disease. They expect forty more patients at Johns Hopkins and four other medical centers will undergo the same procedure by the end of the year.
The Johns Hopkins trial is focused on examining the effects deep electric simulation of the brain can have on the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. The study is based on an earlier and smaller trial in Canada. Patients there showed increased glucose metabolism after a similar study. Glucose metabolism is considered an indicator of neuronal activity. It decreases with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers at The Ohio State University are approaching their testing a little differently. While The Johns Hopkins trial targets the part of the brain responsible for memory, the trial at The Ohio State targets the area of the brain that controls behavior and cognition. Both groups are hoping to see how pacemakers in the brain can treat this disease.
Stay Updated on the Pacemaker Trials
“We encourage families that have a loved one living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease to sign up to follow our blog. We’ll be sure to share the latest findings from both trials,” explains Eileen Drexler, the Alzheimer’s and dementia expert for Heritage Senior Communities in Michigan.
You can learn more about The Johns Hopkins trial from this video. . You can also watch this interview from The Wexner Medical Center to see the story of one of their patient’s progress firsthand.
Do you or a loved one live with Alzheimer’s disease?
Would you consider participating in an Alzheimer’s trial?
by Shelley | Oct 28, 2024 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects an estimated 55 million people worldwide. While scientists say genetics and age are risk factors, emerging research suggests diet may also play a crucial role in the development of Alzheimer’s. Understanding the potential connection between nutrition and cognitive health may help you make informed dietary choices that will lower your risk for the disease.
The Impact of Diet on Brain Health
The brain, like any other organ, requires a range of nutrients to function optimally. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants can support brain health and may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Several nutrition plans have been linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s. The Mediterranean diet, the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, and the MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet are all believed to support better cognitive health.
- Mediterranean Diet: With an emphasis on consuming whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, olive oil, and nuts, and avoiding or limiting red meat and processed foods, this diet has become increasingly popular. Research indicates that adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
- DASH Diet: Designed to combat hypertension, this dietary option focuses on nutrient-rich foods and low sodium intake. It has been linked to improved brain health due to its emphasis on fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- MIND Diet: This lifestyle choice combines elements of both the Mediterranean and DASH diets. It specifically targets foods that are beneficial for brain health. Studies indicate that those who closely follow the MIND diet have a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Important Nutrients for A Healthy Brain
Certain nutrients are particularly vital for maintaining cognitive function as you grow older:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish (like salmon and sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining brain cell structure and function. They have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect against cognitive decline.
- Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E and compounds found in berries, leafy green vegetables, and nuts help combat oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells. Berries, particularly blueberries, have been shown to improve memory and cognitive function.
- B vitamins: Folate, B6, and B12 play crucial roles in brain health. Low levels of these vitamins have been associated with cognitive decline. Foods such as leafy greens, legumes, eggs, and fortified cereals are excellent sources.
- Polyphenols: Found in foods like dark chocolate, green tea, and various fruits and vegetables, polyphenols have neuroprotective effects and may enhance cognitive function.
By contrast, researchers believe some foods may be detrimental to cognitive health. Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, and refined sugars are linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-fat dairy products can contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are harmful to brain health.
Follow the Heritage Blog
While there is currently no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, adopting a nutritious diet rich in whole foods and key nutrients can be a proactive step toward maintaining cognitive health. As more is discovered about this form of dementia and what you can do to lower your personal risk, we will continue to share updates. We encourage you to bookmark this resource and visit often!
by Shelley | Jun 1, 2024 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
Every July 4th, Americans pause to celebrate our nation’s birth with family, friends, and neighbors. Festivities traditionally include parades, barbecues, street fairs, and, of course, fireworks. Independence Day activities often include everything from lighting sparklers for the kids to shooting off loud firecrackers in the yard.
While these noisy gatherings are fun for many, others may find them stressful and even frightening. Among those who struggle on Independence Day are veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, people who grapple with anxiety, and adults living with Alzheimer’s.
For adults with Alzheimer’s disease, the flashing lights and loud bangs created by fireworks can cause agitation and fear. It could be severe enough that the senior might attempt to wander from home in search of a quieter, calmer place. For adults with a memory impairment, wandering poses a serious risk of injury or loss of life.
If a spouse or parent has Alzheimer’s or a similar form of dementia, it’s essential that you take steps to keep your loved one safe on July 4th and the days leading up to it. The following tips can help you plan a safer Independence Day holiday gathering.
Celebrating Safely on July 4th
- Keep the gathering small and invite familiar people.
While fireworks can create stress and agitation for adults with dementia, the crowd size can factor in too. Sometimes a sea of unfamiliar faces, even if it is people the senior should recognize, causes the most anxiety. That’s why our first tip for hosting a more dementia-friendly Independence Day celebration is to try to keep it small. Your loved one will likely find it less overwhelming. When they aren’t anxious and agitated, it will probably be easier for you to relax and enjoy the event.
- Plan around the senior’s best and worst times of day.
While July 4th celebrations often occur in the evening, that may not be a great time of day for a senior with dementia. As a family caregiver, you are likely familiar with your loved one’s daily patterns, specifically their best and worst times of day. Use that as a guide for when to have your party. For example, many people with Alzheimer’s experience sundowner’s syndrome. This puts them at risk for wandering and other struggles during late afternoon and early evening hours. In these situations, planning a lunchtime or early afternoon picnic might be a better choice.
- Arrange alternative activities.
If your loved one with dementia lives in your home, another idea is to plan indoor activities for them to enjoy during the party. It may be helpful to ask people your family member is familiar with to spend a little time engaging in these activities with the senior. For example, people with Alzheimer’s and dementia often find repetitive tasks calming, such as folding a basket of towels or sorting a deck of playing cards. You might also want to set out family photo albums or boxes of pictures for the senior and other family members to go through together. You could also provide a few simple craft projects. These all have the added benefit of giving family members a chance to make memories with the senior.
- Give guests a heads-up before the party.
Finally, remember that many people aren’t familiar with Alzheimer’s disease and the challenges and changes it causes. Send a quick explanation in email or text to guests who are unfamiliar with your family’s situation. You could also include a link to an article like “Helping Family and Friends Understand Alzheimer’s Disease” to make it easy for guests to learn more.
Specialized Dementia Care at Heritage Senior Communities
If a senior in your life has been diagnosed with some form of dementia, exploring the options for care in your community is always a good idea. Heritage is one of the leading providers of specialized dementia care in Michigan. We encourage you to contact a community near you to learn more!
