How often do you ignore signs? It’s cloudy; you leave your umbrella at home or in the car, only to find that it’s raining when it’s time to venture out. It was time to replace the bulb. You thought you noticed a flicker, but you weren’t sure. Now you have to take the time to replace the bulb. We also often ignore the signs of memory loss in our loved ones or other signs of illness. Have your recent visits shown loved ones wearing inappropriate clothing for the current weather conditions or dressing patterns that are unusual from the way “mom or dad” normally dresses? There was an occasion when a loved one wore these plaid wool pants in the heat of summer. When comments were made, she said she was cold. Did you tell yourself perhaps they are just having a bad day or it was a part of the aging process? What happens when you ask a question and the answer is obvious, but their response is totally unpredictable? Again we often ignore the signs. I remember when a loved one began having problems remembering how to write. She was confused and ignored paying bills. After a few months, she confessed that she just was not able to do it. How could I have not known? We must be aware and look for the signs of changes that disrupt our loved ones daily lives, changes in planning, poor judgment, and personality and mood changes. It’s not always easy to notice. We just have to be more attentive and more aware. It’s all a part of the journey. Let me know some of the signs you have been ignoring. Email me.
More Than 3000 People Walked
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.
Alzheimer’s Walk
I am counting down the days to this week’s Alzheimer’s Walk on Sunday October 9. I will be joined by thousands of men, women, children, grandchildren, friends, husbands, wives and those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease on this walk. Some will be walkers. The walkers usually attract their friends to join them. It is an occasion to get together for a tremendous cause. Others are professional runners who are determining how quickly they are able to complete the walk/run. I remember last year’s walk. There were kids in strollers. Some beyond the official stroller age, but parents aware these toddlers and young children might not be excited or able to complete a 5K walk. I passed adults in wheel chairs and children in strollers. Supporters were on the sidelines cheering us all on as we made this trek through the turns and street closures specifically for this walk. There was music and refreshments strategically located at various points of the walk. The crowd was excited. Celebrities joined the walk. Everyone was there for the cause — to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through research and support for caregivers. Have you made your donation or signed up to volunteer for this walk to end Alzheimer’s disease? Someone develops Alzheimer’s disease every 69 seconds. Caregivers need want and deserve your support for the Alzheimer’s Association. I will be looking for you on Sunday and want to hear all about your walking experience.
Remember, caregivers need care too. Send me an email about your experiences.
www.newbeginningstoday.com
310 673 3349
What is Caregiving?
Caring for a loved one is special. Is it expected, a duty, obligation or expression of love and commitment? Whatever feelings and thoughts you have as a caregiver, it’s about doing what works best for you and your family. Are you taking care of your relative in your home? Is the space adequate for this care? Is the home safe for your relative? Are you making daily visits to your parents home? Are alarms in place? Is your parent left alone for long periods of time? Perhaps you have a loved one in a facility. Is it a large facility? How often do you visit? Do you bring the relative home to share special occasions with other family members? How do you feel after the visit? Is it easier for the family to visit your loved one in the facility? “Caregiving is different for each family I would like to hear some of your stories. It’s important to remember caregivers need care too.
Send me an email about your experiences.
www.newbeginningstoday.com
310 673 3349