Caregiver Tips for March to Avoid the Madness 
Caregivers: Spring into Action
Spring is nearly here and so is the time of renewal. In this issue of our newsletter, we will introduce (or reconnect) you to some techniques to help reduce caregiver stress. You'll find these stories below:
  • Details about the next Town Hall Forum on March 21
  • Stop caregiver bad habits
  • Tips to reduce Sundowning
  • Caregiver self-care ideas
  • Some fact about happiness and how to achieve it
March is Hopping with Activities
 
Our communities have so much in store this month. We are planning Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day, and the first day of Spring. And, to get a jump on things, we will spring forward one hour (on March 10) to start Daylight Saving time. Check out what is on the schedule.


Join us for the Caregiver Support Group Meetings on the second  and  fourth  Tuesday  each month. Meetings this month will be on Mar. 12  and Mar. 26  at 11 a.m. 
All are welcome!  ( Click here for details .)
Next Town Hall Forum - Mar. 21  

Dementia Dialogues: A Panel Discussion with Specialized Geriatric Physicians

This free seminar for family caregivers will provide a practical and honest discussion on the dementia diagnosis, understanding behaviors, disease progression, caregiving and treatment.
 
Experts in the field of geriatric medicine and dementia care will discuss many topics on the minds of those caring for loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
 
Panelists:
Teja Singh, MD - Board Certified Geriatrician
Jason Keri, MD - Board Certified Geriatric Psychiatrist
 
Moderator:
Todd Shetter - ActivCare Living COO
 
To learn more, call 888-MEM-LOSS ( 888-636-5677) or click here for a flyer.
 
Thursday, March 21, 2019
8:30 am to 11 am
Continental Breakfast at 8:30 am, presentations begin at 9 am
 
Chula Vista Golf Course
4475 Bonita Rd
Bonita, CA 91902
 
Make your reservation online by using this link.
Stop That!

We've all seen the lists: Do these 5 things...7 ways to...Top 3 reasons to...
 
Well, we saw this essential list for caregivers online and wanted to share with you: 10 Things to Stop Doing. Not because you need to add more to your day, but to help relieve the stress as a caregiver. You can relate to some or all of this information. It's also comforting to know that you are not alone.
 
Trying to do it all, by yourself, can impact your health (and your sanity). Take heed of this advice and find the support that you need and deserve. If we can help, give us a call:
  • Our communities have Caregiver Support Groups that meet regularly or we can help you find one.
  • Tips for effective communication, activity ideas, and redirection techniques are available at any ActivCare.
  • Here's an idea: Make a list of chores/tasks that you would like to accomplish but cannot. If someone asks if they can help, find one of these tasks that they can complete for you.
10 Things to Stop Doing if You're an Alzheimer's Caregiver
Sundowning: Causes, Coping and Prevention Tips

In a household of someone with Alzheimer's or related dementia, l ate afternoons can be pretty eventful. A loved one can develop signs of restlessness, agitation and irritability. Commonly referred to as "Sundowning," this behavior can add stress to a caregiver.
 
If your loved one is experiencing Sundowning, the National Institute on Aging has developed some practices that can mitigate the situation. From understanding the causes to prevention techniques, there are some helpful tips here.
 
Essential Self-Care Tips for Caregivers

You've heard that caring for the caregiver is essential, but how do you fit self-care into an already packed schedule? Harvard Medical School has published this article about self-care. The advice is practical and, with the help of relaxation techniques and smartphone apps, can be introduced into your schedule relatively easily.
 
You may be surprised how effective 10 minutes of breathing can help you relax.
 
Happy Face
The Science of Happiness

Some fascinating facts from studies about happiness include:
  • Happiness can help boost our immune systems.
  • Performing good deeds is one of the fastest ways to get some happiness into our own lives.
  • Those who are exposed to floral scents are about three times as likely to be happy. (Stop and smell the roses...literally.)
  • Brightly colored clothing actually makes the wearer, and those around them, happier.
  • Being outdoors makes people happier.
  • Happiness is infectious. We can feel happy just by being around other people who are happy.
  • Expressing gratitude has been shown to be a significant stress buster and generates a more optimistic and happy outlook on life.
  • Petting a dog or cat or other furry pets releases oxytocin, which creates instant happiness.
  • Hugging also releases oxytocin, which helps to heal physical wounds, and makes someone trust you more.
  • The amount of sleep a person gets directly influences their happiness levels. Sleep deprivation directly increases depression and stress levels.
  • Smiling - even if you are faking a smile - can lead to a noticeable difference in your level of happiness.
ActivCare at Mission Bay  |  2440 Grand Avenue  |  San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 207-3334  |   ActivCareLiving.com