She is not the same person I once knew. My mother — the strong, outspoken, active woman who raised three children. Often harsh in her strict disciplinary practices, she was just as hard on herself. But it was resilience that moved her from childhood poverty to a successful nursing career, a happy marriage and a …
DISCLAIMER: Because COVID-19 has changed the scenario in many assisted living facilities, some of these tips will need to be modified. The calendar reminds us how deep we are into the holiday season. Our waistlines expand while the stresses of family dynamics emotionally stretch us. As much as we enjoy the family time, the abundance …
As difficult as it is to admit, the Alzheimer’s journey often involves a measure of guilt. Friends might try to soothe with platitudes, reminders that false guilt is not real. Nonetheless, the inner critic continues to scream, “You should have done more!” During the years when Mom was in assisted living, it was easy to …
Sometimes prayer comes easy and feels like a special connection with the Divine. The words flow with a spiritual electricity. We believe God has indeed heard us, and something miraculous will happen soon. But other times we struggle to know what to say. The words stick in our throats, and God feels far away. We …
This blog began as therapy for the Alzheimer’s journey in our family. Then it slowly morphed into more posts about hope. But how did it all begin? What was the impetus for sharing my words in cyberspace? The thief first appeared as a slight blip on the memory screen. A word forgotten, a key chain …
When the transitions of life change our circumstances, it may become more difficult to discover hope. Recently, Mom transferred from assisted living to the Alzheimer’s unit. A necessary change, given her cognitive impairment. Still, for the family she no longer recognizes, it was a clear reminder of the devastation of this disease. Grateful for the …
Something about houses attracts the hope within. Tudors with their brick facades, happy bungalows — especially the ones equipped with porch swings, cottages framed by specialty gardens. The memoir I am writing is focused around the theme of various houses in which I have lived. Maybe I should have become a realtor. The house Mom …
The calendar reminds us how deep we are into the holiday season. Our waistlines expand while the stresses of family dynamics emotionally stretch us. As much as we enjoy the family time, the abundance of good food and the reminders to be grateful — we also need to remember how stressful this time can be …
How can we help the Alzheimer’s loved one survive the holidays? As much as we enjoy the family time, the abundance of good food and the reminders to be grateful for another year – we also have to remember how stressful this time can be – especially for someone who suffers from Alzheimer’s or dementia. …
How can we best prepare for the holidays with our Alzheimer’s loved one? Check out these 7 tips.