SilveradoHow can you Live a Brain-Healthy Lifestyle and Why is it Important?
In recent years a major recurring theme has taken center stage in scientific research on the human brain: The lifestyle a person leads plays a major factor in how the brain ages and can directly affect the arc of memory-impairing diseases. From diet and exercise to stress management and social interaction, there are very few parts of a person’s lifestyle that don’t affect how their brain will age. Though the level of detail provided by these studies can vary greatly, there has never been a better understanding of how the lifestyle choices a person can make to increase their chances
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Guest Blogger5 Technological Advancements for People with Dementia
Dementia is a frightening condition that no one can wish to have. The primary symptom is declining memory loss and the overall inability to perform simple problem-solving tasks. It also impacts a person’s ability to think critically and at the same time, affect the language patterns. It is a common occurrence among the elderly in society. Still, the condition is slowly creeping to younger people due to different causes, chief among them being mental illness issues. Though advancements in science and technology haven't come up with a cure, several useful innovations will offer some form of reprieve to family members
Continue readingGetting Good Sleep fights Alzheimers
Recent studies have shown that getting plenty of quality sleep can help prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s. It is a well-known fact that sleeping is necessary for proper brain health as it gives the organ an opportunity to rest and recharge. But did you know that while you are sleeping, the brain also processes memories and thoughts from the day? And because Alzheimer’s is a memory loss disease, one can see how the lack of quality sleep might affect your brain negatively. Getting Good Sleep fights Alzheimers What links sleep and Alzheimer’s disease is a formation of protein
Continue readingAsk an Expert: Five Tactics for Dementia Caregiving
Caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be an incredibly tiresome job. From the long hours, to psychological exhaustion, to the physically demanding environment, there are very few ways to actively prepare for and predict the responsibilities that caregiving entails. Silverado’s Director of Clinical Education Sue Kruse shares key tactics for managing the day-to-day challenges of dementia caregivers. Communication Through Understanding According to Kruse, one of the most frustrating problem areas for individuals with dementia and their caregivers is communication. Many times, the person living with dementia may be unable to express their needs, leading
Continue readingHow Fast Does Alzheimer's Progress?
It’s important to note that progression of the disease can vary from one person to another. This depends on many variables, from the time symptoms were first noticed, along with the patient’s preexisting medical history, or even how the disease is managed. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a physician experienced with Alzheimer’s, in order to cope and manage appropriately once this disease is diagnosed. How Fast Does Alzheimer's Progress? According to Dr. David Stern, Medical Director at Silverado Calabasas Memory Care Community, symptoms of Alzheimer’s start early and can typically go unnoticed. Generally speaking, there are two years between
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Richard BitnerWhy is Dementia Rate Rising 5X as Fast as US Population
Cases of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia have increased sharply in the US over the past several years. The reason why it is taken for granted: as the American population grows older, dementia becomes more prevalent. But Alzheimer’s and other dementias may be spreading faster than many people think. Why is Dementia Rate Rising 5X as Fast as US Population A new study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has found that cases of Alzheimer’s and dementia are projected to increase from 6 million cases in 2017 to 15 million cases by 2060. That’s an increase of
Continue readingHow to Prevent Agitation in Loved One with Dementia
A person with dementia can become agitated for a number of reasons such as pain, fatigue, confusion, or restlessness. Agitation is indicated by feelings of anxiety or becoming upset very quickly. Loved ones and caregivers should be cognizant of how to prevent or respond to these cases by taking a few precautions. How to Prevent Agitation in Loved One with Dementia [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_KVCWAiv8Y[/embed] Dr. Elizabeth A. Landsverk, Silverado Belmont Hills Medical Director, suggests three ways to reduce or prevent agitation with dementia patients: Remove medicationsthat cause any agitation or more confusion, such as Xanax or sleeping pills. It’s best to consult
Continue readingWhat’s the difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViWdRDs207E[/embed] Link to the Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViWdRDs207E One of the most commonly asked questions in memory care is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Though they are quite often (and mistakenly) used interchangeably, there are key differences that will help distinguish the two. Since approaches to Alzheimer’s and dementia care can also vary, it’s even more crucial for medical professionals, patients, and families to understand the differences. Dr. Richard London, Medical Director of Silverado Oak Village Community explains how they differ: What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia? Dementia is an umbrella term for the group of symptoms in
Continue readingHis Love was Stronger than Alzheimer's
Alzheimer’s is a real problem facing real people every day. If you or someone you know has faced it, you understand the emotional toll it takes. When we came across one couple’s journey, it touched us so deeply that we spent two full days capturing their love story to be shared with the world. His Love was Stronger than Alzheimer's [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0T6UbR-pR6U[/embed] John and Kerry McNeely learned of Kerry’s Alzheimer’s in 2014, shortly after a trip to Europe. Soon after, John sought help for her at Silverado. At the memory care community, he was able join a family support group to openly
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