More than 3000 people were out and prepared to walk on last Sunday morning for the cure, research and support for Alzheimer’s disease. As I entered the elevator to sign in for the walk, I noticed a young baby in a stroller. Her parents were eager to get started. This is was actually the baby’s second walk. Her parents were there last year to walk to support their grandmother. This is one of the many stories of families impacted by Alzheimer’s. There are many more that do not walk, go unnoticed, and sit silently without sharing their stories. They carry on their day-to-day tasks of caring for loved ones whose memories are increasingly fading. Family members become isolated, overwhelmed and often depressed. Support and resources are available. This was a beautiful morning for a walk. Temperatures may have been in the mid to low 70’s.Volunteers were passing out water. The opening ceremony was engaging. I am enlisting you to find a group or organization in your community and walk, volunteer or donate to this cause. We need you. If you would like more information send me an email. Click here.
Traveling With Dementia
Did you take a summer vacation yet? Do you want to? Where had you planned to visit? Are you afraid or hesitant to travel with your loved one who has dementia? Where are you thinking of going? Is it far from your current home? Will you be able to drive? I would suggest you plan the trip carefully. With careful planning, will be easier and you and your loved one will have many experiences to share. Imagine a train ride. The beautiful scenery may be relaxing for you and your relative. You will be able to get exercise on the train — walking from car to car. A great part of any vacation is meeting new people. Most people are nice and accommodating. The plane ride may be faster, but it may also be more discomforting — standing in long lines, long waiting periods at the airport, more people. Be sure your loved one is well-rested prior to the trip. Remember to have all medications readily available. If your loved one has dietary restrictions, have the required foods on hand. This trip may trigger memories for the two of you. Make it a memorable occasion. Take lots of pictures. Point out landmarks and other points of interest. Take it easy. Some days may be designated as rest days where you stay in the hotel or nearby for most of the day. On the days when more activities are planned, plan a couple activities per day. Be prepared to answer the same questions many times. “Where are we? Where are we going? When are we leaving? How long will we be here?” It is acceptable to answer the question with a question or to even change the subject. It is about being together. This is a new experience for you and for your loved one. Let me hear about your travel plans and send picture of those great trips.
Caregivers need trips and care too.
www.newbeginningstoday.com
310 673 3349
Caregivers Want More
Can you think of any reason or anything caregivers might want more? Caregivers are so busy caring for their loved ones, they don’t often focus on themselves. While the caregiver is not focusing on her or himself, neither are other family members and friends. It’s usually not because they are not concerned about the health and well-being of the caregiver, it is generally because the caregiver has not mentioned or acknowledged that more time and attention devoted to him or herself is necessary and even wanted. If you have a caregiver in your life who is doing the day-to-day care of a loved one who is aging, take some time to reward that caregiver. What would a reward look like? How about offering to do some of the routine chores assumed by the caregiver. How about just spending a little more time with the caregiver to ask how she or he is really doing. Have you thought about preparing a meal or taking the caregiver one of their favorite healthy treats? A special surprise might be allowing the caregiver to get a few hours of uninterrupted peace and quiet. It really is about the little things. The things that non-caregivers take for granted. A hug, a gentle touch, a prolonged smile, a wink, 2 thumbs up, a non-rushed telephone call — most caregivers would welcome this attention. Why? Because Caregivers Need Care Too
Angela Mozelle
www.newbeginningstoday.com
310 673 3349
The Energetic Caregiver
It’s the beginning of summer. How excited, enthusiastic and energetic are you feeling as a caregiver? Have you started to delegate some of your responsibilities? Are you taking more time to do special things for you?/ How about your eating habits? Are they different this time of year? Are you cooking less? Is is time to just cleanse and relax your system so you can feel better, look better and have more energy? Join me on Transformational Tuesdays this week and find out how you can detox your system easily and painlessly. It’s called Thoughts for Foods. Ling Wong will share great ideas and working strategies for your busy lifestyle. There is no fasting. You will be able to continue with your regular caregiving responsibilities. At the end of the cleansing period, you will feel better. You can determine if a few days or several days fit into your schedule. Join us on the call. Tuesday June 28th at 7:00 PDT. @ 218 486 1616. access code 375514#. Because Caregivers Need Care Too. For more information give me a call. It’s about focusing on you.
Remember, “Caregivers Need Care Too”.
www.newbeginningstoday.com
310 673 3349