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Our newsletter is filled with information on some of the wonderful programs and services we offer to caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia or other memory impairment.
As always, our team is here to help ~ whenever you are ready to reach-out!
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 Care Management is not a "one size fits all" model. Your story is unique and we want to take the time to learn about you in order to provide the most individualized support, resources, and recommendations possible. Our strategy is simple: find appropriate solutions to the challenge(s) you face by using a holistic approach.
Our experienced Care Managers are Masters Level Social Workers and Nurses who are members of the Aging Life Care Association ( ALCA). They are specialists in providing care to older adults and individuals with special needs.
We work as a collaborative team so our clients can get the benefit of everyone's expertise.
To schedule a consultation with one of our Care Managers call us at (561)588-4545
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| Free Caregiver Workshop: Clincial Trials: Dr. Mark Goldberg from JEM Research |
Join us on June 26th from 10:30am - 12:00pm for our Free Family Caregiver Workshop on "Clincial Trials".
Dr. Mark Goldstein from JEM Research will cover a variety of topics, including:
- How to know if it's time
- How to choose the right ALF
- What is Memory Care and What to consider when choosing a community
- What assistance is available to help with cost
Light Refreshments Will Be Served
RSVP to the Alzheimer's Care Resource Center (561) 588-4545.
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| Summer Safety Tips for People with Memory Loss |
Alzheimer's caregivers always need to be vigilant in keeping their loved one safe, but with the warmer weather comes additional safety concerns.
A senior who wanders may face additional safety challenges in the summer if they are around water, are not hydrated, or are not wearing sunscreen. Read more for tips on keeping your loved ones safe while still enjoying all that summer has to offer.
Here are some tips that can help seniors stay safe as the temperature rises:
- Stay hydrated - People with dementia may not realize that they are thirsty, so encourage them to drink frequently. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as these drinks may contribute to dehydration.
- Apply sunscreen regularly - Again, a senior with Alzheimer's may not remember to put on sunscreen, so be sure to remind them to reapply when needed.
- Dress appropriately - As Alzheimer's progresses, decision making becomes more difficult. Put away any winter clothes and make light, summer clothing easily accessible for your loved ones.
- Limit sun exposure - Try to stay in shaded areas as much as possible and stay inside during the hottest part of the day, usually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Be watchful around water - It's best to have any home pools protected by a fence but keep a watchful eye on any seniors who may wander to prevent an accident.
- Avoid loud noises and crowds - Both loud noises and crowds can be overwhelming for someone with dementia so consider watching any fireworks or attending any parades from a distance.
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| 24-Hour Caregiver Helpline |
Caregivers and family members of those with Alzheimer's disease, dementia or other cognitive impairment never have to go through a crisis alone. The Alzheimer's Care Resource Center is here to help you get through it.
We provide local caregivers and families with counseling, coaching, guidance, support, and dementia specific resources to help you cope with the challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Education and training is available to help caregivers manage difficult behaviors, learn effective communication techniques and help to manage stress.
The Alzheimer's Caregiver Helpline helpline is available to anyone in the Alzheimer's community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide emotional support, guidance, resources and crisis intervention to caregivers and family members of those with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and other memory impairments.
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Coping with the Changes & Challenges of Caring for Someone With Memory Loss
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Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or other neurocognitive disorder is never easy. The Alzheimer's Care Resource Center's
Coaching for Caregivers program, helps caregivers cope with the changes and challenges they inevitably face along the way.
Whether it's coping with emotions, or managing a problematic behavioral issue, our staff is here to help.
Common issues that may be explored include:
- Adjusting to a new diagnosis or progression of symptoms
- Changes in roles/expectations within a couple or family
- Family discord regarding care options and plans
- Grief, loss and bereavement
- Desire for improved coping skills
- Learn how to reduce stress and improve coping skills
- Need for understanding regarding behavior and personality changes in a person who has Alzheimer's disease or a related form of memory loss
- A desire for a confidential and accepting setting in which to vent and discuss feelings
- Manage the symptoms of memory loss
- Understand how Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed and treated
- Understand the behaviors commonly seen in those living with Alzheimer's disease or other neurocognitive disorders.
- Learn new ways to respond to challenging behaviors
- Find balance in your life and learn ways to take care of your own important self-care needs
- Plan for future needs
- Learn strategies to effectively communicate with the person living with memory loss
- Next Steps™ ~ Moving forward after placement or loss
To schedule a consultation with one of our Care Managers call us at (561)588-4545
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5 Self Care Tips for Caregivers
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To be your best self for the person you're caring for, we've put together five self-care tips for caregivers.
- Make sure you get enough sleep. Caring for a loved one can be very tiring and the stress of caregiving can make sleep difficult. Adequate sleep can help with physical fatigue. It can also help with mental sharpness and may make you feel less irritable. If possible, try going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. If you have trouble falling asleep, try meditation exercises or over-the-counter supplements such as melatonin (if it's okay with your doctor or pharmacist). Exercising more often will also help you fall asleep at night. You may not have much time to dedicate to exercise but taking a few 10-minute breaks to walk or move can help. You should also make sure your bedroom is a good environment for sleep. That means having your bedroom cool, dark and quiet.
- Watch your blood pressure. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, caregivers' high level of stress can lead to high blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly to make sure it's not too high. If you need to lower your blood pressure, try some of these lifestyle changes that may lower blood pressure. You should also talk to your doctor about controlling your blood pressure.
- Take a break. Whether it's spending 30 minutes on a hobby you enjoy, going for a walk or reading a book, take time for yourself. If your loved one can't be alone, ask a friend or family member to sit with him or her while you take a break.
- Let people help you. The weight of caring for a loved one can be difficult to carry alone. Let the people in your life do what they can to help you. Whether it's running an errand for you or giving you a few minutes to yourself, allowing others to help is essential to your health and well-being.
- Talk to other caregivers. Even though you're not the patient, it's important for you to have resources and support. Try joining a support group either in person or online. There's comfort in talking to others who experience the same ups and downs. Other caregivers can also offer tips that may help you and your loved one.
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| Paint for Fun Class for Caregivers & Loved Ones |
The Alzheimer's Care Resource Center will host
a monthly Paint for Fun™ class on
Friday, June 1th, 2018
from 10:00am - 12:00pm
There is no charge to attend!
Working step by step, with our instructor, you will create your very own masterpiece. During the painting class, participants will enjoy upbeat music, snacks, and refreshments in a fun and cheerful environment.
When complete, all participants can keep their painting as a souvenir. Come join the fun!
No experience needed! Space is limited.
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| Join 12,000+ Caregivers and Follow Us on Facebook |
Connect with Other Caregivers!
The Alzheimer's Care Resource Center has over 11,000 caregivers following us on Facebook. If you are a Caregiver, we invite to like our page and connect with other caregivers who are on a similar journey.
Social Media can be a great way to meet new people, ask questions, learn new tips, and stay up-to-date on the latest news and information. We hope to see you there!
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Support Us When Shopping on Amazon
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A
mazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to Alzheimer's Care Resource Center
whenever you shop on AmazonSmile.
AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service.
AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support your favorite charitable organization every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you'll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to your favorite charitable organization. You can choose from nearly one million organizations to support, but we certainly hope that you will support the Alzheimer's Care Resource Center.
If you have questions or would like more
i
nformation,
contact the Alzheimer's Care Resource Center,
f
eel free to
call us at (561) 588-4545. Thank you!!
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June 2018 Calendar of Events
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Look, I shrunk Grandma
A Psychiatrist's Guide to Nursing Homes, Dementia & End of Life
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Karen Severson, M.D., has spent the last twenty years as a Geriatric Psychiatrist wandering the halls of those dreaded destinations called nursing homes.
She became mentally exhausted from watching people with Alzheimer's disease decline and suffer. She wrote about the unnecessary suffering caused by doctors, nurses, and families who are on totally different pages regarding end-of-life issues. She realized doctors tend to avoid these conversations and families can remain in extended denial of dementia.
This book is intended to help families understand dementia and its associated behaviors in a down to earth manner. Dr. Severson uses a great deal of humor as not to scare people from the subject. She also discusses several other important issues, but mainly how we can better allow families to learn to let go of those with end-stage illness.
Dr. Severson hopes to prevent unnecessary and potentially harmful medical interventions as well as allow more geriatric patients to die in peace.
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About Us
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The Alzheimer's Care Resource Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization,
is the only non-profit organization in Palm Beach, Broward, Martin and St. Lucie county focused strictly on meeting the needs of Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers. We are so excited that we can bring these wonderful programs and services to the community and further our mission of helping caregivers to relax, renew and reach-out to help meet their own unique self-care needs.
You can reach us at
(561) 588-4545
or
Sincerely,
Alzheimer's Care Resource Center |
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