No Time Like the Summertime!
Caregiving Tips for the Good Old Summer Time
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Summertime is nearly here and we have some tips to make happy memories for you and your loved one with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. This month's newsletter provides tips, insight and ideas to make your summer a fun one. Here's what is in store:
  • Tips to help caregivers recharge this summer
  • Get insight into what Alzheimer's patients wish you knew
  • Summer fun: activities that you can do together
  • Summer Trivia
Read on...
June Activities are Sunny and Bright!
 
We're ready for the sun to shine  with a calendar bursting with activities and special events. Check out what is on the schedule.


Tips to Brighten Your Summer Days

As a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia, you may be in a unique position of being 'sandwiched' in between raising your children or a thriving career while simultaneously caring for your parent.
 

Caregivers with so many demands can quickly be worn thin; this is why it is crucial for you to take the time to care for yourself. Here are a few self-care ideas:
  • Ask for help. No one can do it all; don't be afraid to ask for help with things like school pick-up/ drop-off, trips to the pharmacy or doctor's appointments.
  • Let Summer in. Open the window blinds and let the natural light shine in. Also, bring some of the outdoors inside with fresh flowers or with summer fruits and vegetables.
  • Build a support network. Reach out to other caregivers to find opportunities to give and receive support, even if that support is just a cup of coffee with a side of laughter.
  • Hold on to the happy moments. Take time to look at old photos, watch family movies, talk about people you love or about past summer trips you've taken.
  • Create new moments. Watch a sunset, take a selfie with your folks, go for ice cream or take a trip down memory lane to a local park.
  Want more tips? Click on this link:  Nurture Yourself this Summer
Insight: What Those with Alzheimer's Wish You Knew
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Don't you wish there was a guidebook to help you through the caregiving experience? A resource that could offer insight and understanding to your loved one's actions and reactions?
 
We found this recent article in Reader's Digest that outlines things that Alzheimer's patients wish you knew to help them lead a meaningful life. Here are a few excerpts:

  • Remaining socially active is important. Encourage them to stay connected with old friends or meet new ones.
  • Include them in daily activities. Whether it be helping with the laundry or sharing an outing, involving your loved ones gives a sense of purpose.
  • Enjoyment comes from the creative activities that they're used to. Painting, gardening or even listening to music can exercise a skill that they have.
  • Music unlocks memories and inspires feelings.
  • Busy or loud places can be stressful. When venturing out, avoid the crowd to prevent over stimulation.

It's an interesting perspective for the family caregiver.  16 Things that Alzheimer's Patients Wish You Knew

10 Ways to Have Some Fun This Summer

They say, "Use it or lose it." Keeping those with dementia active and engaged is important for a higher quality of life. At ActivCare we have a stimulating activity program that keeps our resident involved all day, every day. If you are caring for a loved one at home, here are a few inexpensive activities that you can do together.
 

Summer Fun Facts

The Blue Whale's heart is the size of a Volkswagen Bug.

The world's ocean contains 20 million tons of gold.

The month of June is named after the Roman goddess Juno.

Ice pops were invented in 1905 by an 11 year old boy.

Did you know that on a hot day in Paris, the Eiffel Tower grows taller?

Mosquitoes, summer's pest, have been around for more than 30 million years.

The first Father's Day was observed in 1910, on June 19.

ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch  |  850 Duncan Ranch Road  |  Chula Vista, CA 91914
(619) 552-3517   |   ActivCareLiving.com