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Resources
Mental Health 101: Helping Your Loved One Face Changes in Mental Health
Depression, anxiety and other behavioral health symptoms can make life difficult for anybody, but especially for older adults whose behavioral changes are often dismissed as normal aging. Despite what many say, getting the “blues” is not a not a normal part of aging. This webinar will provide an overview of two common mental health concerns: depression and anxiety. In addition to learning what to look for, and when someone may need extra support, we will look at what we can do to support your older loved ones who may be experiencing a mental health concern and what resources are available.
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Maximizing the Environment for Individuals with Dementia
According to the AARP, most Americans would prefer to stay in their homes until the end of their life. This statistic is no different for persons with dementia. Lack of safety and accessibility in the home are issues that need to be addressed so that individuals with dementia and their respective caregivers also have the ability to age in place. Occupational therapy professionals are trained health care providers that can provide formalized home safety assessments and recommend home modifications to increase safety and independence in the home. These efforts are also beneficial for community and business owners to consider and employ to further support individuals with dementia in the community.
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Happy to Help: Supporting Older Adults in Everyday Life
Guest blogger Rocky Lopes shares experiences helping older adults in his daily life— affectionately known as "Senior Pals"— through small but impactful acts of service.
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Sundowning and Dementia: What to do About Late-Day Behaviors
For those with dementia and their caregivers, the late day hours can often be a disorienting, stressful time. When the sun goes down, individuals with dementia may become agitated, restless, confused, irritable and at times even delirious—seeing and hearing things that are not there—to a greater extent than they do early in the day. This symptom of dementia is known as “sundowning” or “Sundowners Syndrome.” For individuals with dementia and their caregivers, it can be a scary, upsetting nightly occurrence.
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Planning Ahead for the Approaching Holiday Season as a Caregiver
Holidays often have a special meaning for older adults and their family members. They are occasions set aside to acknowledge the passage of time, celebrate significant events in our lives and bring families and friends to come together. By making the most of these special moments, we can truly value our time together with the ones we love.
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