As we were taking down the Faces of Alzheimer’s Photo Exhibit at the Shaw Center this week, a young LSU Student from Houston tapped me on the shoulder and asked if she could have a copy of one of the photos hanging on the wall……. “the couple dancing,” she asked. That couple is Narses and Luz Barona, married for almost 53 years, and still sharing their love and commitment with each other even though this intruder called Alzheimer’s has entered Narses’ life.
Luz gave me permission to send a copy of the photo to this young student and I mentioned in my email to her that the photo must have had a huge impact on her. She quickly replied after I emailed the photo to her, “It really was sooo touching and reminded me of something very important to me!”
These “connections” were not uncommon from the remarks from individuals who viewed the exhibit, those who left comments, and through the number of emails and phone calls shared with our organization throughout the month of November, which was National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. Impactful, to say the least, the 65 photos on the wall and the over 200 various photos in the video display truly touched people in ways indescribable to others. The “connections” were even deeper when we, as staff, mourned the loss of two individuals in the displayed photos who passed away during the month, a heartrending reality of the beginnings and endings of this devastating disease.
Our other November awareness activities had caregivers “breaking bread” and “connecting” with other caregivers at a very special cooking demonstration and luncheon with Chef John Folse and Paul Gates at White Oak Plantation. Caregivers also learned healthy eating habits at a delightful afternoon with Chef Peter Sclafani at Ruffino’s Restaurant. And, at mid-month, we all gathered at the steps of the State Capitol to light our candles in remembrance of those persons who have passed away with Alzheimer’s disease as well as honoring those who currently suffer with the disease.
Every 69 seconds someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. I can’t count the number of times people tell me that they know a friend, or a friend’s friend, or a grandmother who had/has Alzheimer’s. The “connections” are growing with the rising statistics.
The Faces of Alzheimer’s Photo Exhibit certainly connected many people, whether through the range of expressions in the photos themselves, the stories of the individual lives, with others viewing the Exhibit, with the families in the video display, or just through one particular photo, like the one of Narses and Luz Barona dancing. An LSU student connected the photo to an important moment in her life and it made a powerful impression on her. We hope the Exhibit, and the month of activities in November, did the same for you.
-Dana Territo, Director of Services
Monday, December 5, 2011
The Holiday Season
Thanksgiving begins the holiday season and families often gather to celebrate. For many it is when they first notice signs of memory loss or strange behaviors in mom or dad or maybe an aunt or other relative. I know it is when my siblings notice it most in my mom. There are several factors that contribute to it that we as caregivers need to be aware of to reduce the stress. These are some of the suggestions I gave my siblings as they prepared for Thanksgiving and are preparing for Christmas. Give yourself permission to keep things simple and not overdo things. Instead of cooking everything yourself perhaps you can purchase a part of the meal you traditionally made yourself such as pies or making gravy. Accept offers for help if someone wants to bring something to help out.
For my mom, having the whole family was always her favorite part of the celebration. With 8 children, spouses, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren it was a crowd. She always said, “The more the merrier.” and “Everyone is welcome at my table. “ My brother hosted Thanksgiving at his house which removed the burden off the traditional meal at my mom’s. As much as she loved it, the “crowd” is now confusing to her. When I phoned to wish them all a Happy Thanksgiving, mom didn’t know that the three little ones were not her grandchildren, but were nieces and nephews from my sister-in-laws side of the family. I suggested to my sister to sit my mom in a comfortable chair after the meal and have family visit with her one at a time and make sure they mentioned their names as they joined the conversation. It would also be helpful to her if the family used the names instead of pronouns when they were speaking of someone.
My siblings were surprised at the changes in mom’s memory. They hadn’t realized how much it had been affected until they saw her in the crowd. They hadn’t realized the crowd would cause stress and a little agitation in her. They didn’t realize how slowly she ate now. They didn’t realize she would tire so quickly and be ready to go home so soon. They didn’t realize she wouldn’t know someone 10 minutes after she met them and might need to be introduced again. All of these little things can be handled easily if you prepare for them. It reduces the stress and allows everyone to enjoy the holiday. I had recently converted old family slides to digital format and placed them on a digital photo frame so mom could enjoy them again. I suggested my sister bring the frame so mom could enjoy the pictures and share stories that she does remember that are included in the photos. The grandchildren would love to hear them and she would love telling them. It was a great addition to the day and created more wonderful memories.
For my mom, having the whole family was always her favorite part of the celebration. With 8 children, spouses, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren it was a crowd. She always said, “The more the merrier.” and “Everyone is welcome at my table. “ My brother hosted Thanksgiving at his house which removed the burden off the traditional meal at my mom’s. As much as she loved it, the “crowd” is now confusing to her. When I phoned to wish them all a Happy Thanksgiving, mom didn’t know that the three little ones were not her grandchildren, but were nieces and nephews from my sister-in-laws side of the family. I suggested to my sister to sit my mom in a comfortable chair after the meal and have family visit with her one at a time and make sure they mentioned their names as they joined the conversation. It would also be helpful to her if the family used the names instead of pronouns when they were speaking of someone.
My siblings were surprised at the changes in mom’s memory. They hadn’t realized how much it had been affected until they saw her in the crowd. They hadn’t realized the crowd would cause stress and a little agitation in her. They didn’t realize how slowly she ate now. They didn’t realize she would tire so quickly and be ready to go home so soon. They didn’t realize she wouldn’t know someone 10 minutes after she met them and might need to be introduced again. All of these little things can be handled easily if you prepare for them. It reduces the stress and allows everyone to enjoy the holiday. I had recently converted old family slides to digital format and placed them on a digital photo frame so mom could enjoy them again. I suggested my sister bring the frame so mom could enjoy the pictures and share stories that she does remember that are included in the photos. The grandchildren would love to hear them and she would love telling them. It was a great addition to the day and created more wonderful memories.
Common Eating Problems in Alzheimer's Patients
As Alzheimer’s progresses, eating problems can make the situation worse.
Consider the following:
Do dentures still fit?
What medications could be affecting appetite?
What other chronic conditions are present, such as diabetes or digestive problems?
What time of day is your loved one most alert and hungry?
Senses of taste and smell diminish and your loved one may forget to eat and/or lose the skills necessary for eating.
1. Gently remind your loved one to eat.
2. Understand that table manners and judgment diminish. Your loved one may try to eat from others’ plates or from serving bowls.
****Be alert that your loved one may eat anything in sight, including items not intended to be food.
Mealtime TIPS
1. TURN OFF radio, TV, telephone, etc. to reduce agitation.
2. Remove clutter from table.
3. Use brightly colored plates(red or blue)
4. Use placemats that do not slip.
5. Feel free to substitute:
bowls for plates
spoons for forks
6. Bendable straws and lidded cups are helpful.
7. Try placing one food at a time on the plate.
8. Cut food into bitesized pieces or introduce finger foods.
9. Try serving your loved one several small meals during the day.
****Consult with your loved one’s physician if you notice a sudden weight loss.
Consider the following:
Do dentures still fit?
What medications could be affecting appetite?
What other chronic conditions are present, such as diabetes or digestive problems?
What time of day is your loved one most alert and hungry?
Senses of taste and smell diminish and your loved one may forget to eat and/or lose the skills necessary for eating.
1. Gently remind your loved one to eat.
2. Understand that table manners and judgment diminish. Your loved one may try to eat from others’ plates or from serving bowls.
****Be alert that your loved one may eat anything in sight, including items not intended to be food.
Mealtime TIPS
1. TURN OFF radio, TV, telephone, etc. to reduce agitation.
2. Remove clutter from table.
3. Use brightly colored plates(red or blue)
4. Use placemats that do not slip.
5. Feel free to substitute:
bowls for plates
spoons for forks
6. Bendable straws and lidded cups are helpful.
7. Try placing one food at a time on the plate.
8. Cut food into bitesized pieces or introduce finger foods.
9. Try serving your loved one several small meals during the day.
****Consult with your loved one’s physician if you notice a sudden weight loss.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Musings from a rainy November
The 2011 Walk/Run to Remember is over and we raised $309,000 and we hosted approximately 7000 people on Saturday, October 15th. I got up that morning and met some dedicated volunteers and Alzheimer’s Services staff who showed up at the LSU “Old Front Nine” at 5:30 AM. By 8:00 we were set-up, organized and ready to greet our guests. By 1:00 PM, all the tables, chairs, tents, banners, stage, volunteers, walkers, Memory Market exhibitors and a large armadillo was packed up. How amazing to go from an empty field to thousands of people and back to an empty field in less than 6 hours.
Part of the amazing side of it is that our volunteers are so devoted and always willing to help make our walk our biggest awareness event of the year. I can’t thank you enough for all your help! Another special group is our Memory Market exhibitors. This year we had new tents for them and while I couldn’t wait to see all 32 exhibitors lined up and ready to greet our guests, I was awed by how much attention to detail went into each booth. Companies went the extra mile to bring giveaways, door prizes and set up eye-catching displays so that our caregivers and other interested individuals would have the chance to view their services and products.
Unfortunately this year we didn’t get to hear the band again, due to a problem with the generator, but these guys are also dedicated and have promised to play for the 2012 Walk which is tentatively scheduled for October 20, 2012. Club South again came out and coordinated the runners. This group is great. The food and drinks were awesome; thanks to Coca-Cola, McDonalds, Mockler, Capital City Produce, Mark Sanders and his group of friends, Home Instead for cooking the hotdogs and many other people who donated products and volunteered their time.
Our participants and donors all seemed to have a great day and we are so appreciative of your dedication to our mission. Simply saying thank you isn’t enough. We have recently revamped our Facebook and Twitter so “like” us on Facebook (Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area) and “follow” us on Twitter (AlzServices). I have been posting walk photos and this is a great way for everyone to stay connected with us. We want to hear your thoughts and questions. Thank you again, I am so happy to be part of this organization.
Teri BrantleyWalk Coordinator
Part of the amazing side of it is that our volunteers are so devoted and always willing to help make our walk our biggest awareness event of the year. I can’t thank you enough for all your help! Another special group is our Memory Market exhibitors. This year we had new tents for them and while I couldn’t wait to see all 32 exhibitors lined up and ready to greet our guests, I was awed by how much attention to detail went into each booth. Companies went the extra mile to bring giveaways, door prizes and set up eye-catching displays so that our caregivers and other interested individuals would have the chance to view their services and products.
Unfortunately this year we didn’t get to hear the band again, due to a problem with the generator, but these guys are also dedicated and have promised to play for the 2012 Walk which is tentatively scheduled for October 20, 2012. Club South again came out and coordinated the runners. This group is great. The food and drinks were awesome; thanks to Coca-Cola, McDonalds, Mockler, Capital City Produce, Mark Sanders and his group of friends, Home Instead for cooking the hotdogs and many other people who donated products and volunteered their time.
Our participants and donors all seemed to have a great day and we are so appreciative of your dedication to our mission. Simply saying thank you isn’t enough. We have recently revamped our Facebook and Twitter so “like” us on Facebook (Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area) and “follow” us on Twitter (AlzServices). I have been posting walk photos and this is a great way for everyone to stay connected with us. We want to hear your thoughts and questions. Thank you again, I am so happy to be part of this organization.
Teri BrantleyWalk Coordinator
The Holidays
It’s that special time of the year to give thanks for all the blessings that have been bestowed upon us throughout the year. I am especially thankful for having been given the opportunity to work for an organization that I am so proud of. The work that goes on at Alzheimer’s Services and Charlie’s Place is amazing. Each day our staff gives their best, it’s not just a job, it is a labor of love.
I see the relief on the caregivers faces as they drop their loved ones off each day knowing they will have 6 precious hours of relief from the “36 hour day.” I also see the joy and happiness on the clients faces after they have spent a day at Charlie’s Place. They receive stimulation and socialization and “person centered care” by not only the staff, but the volunteers who care for them.
I am very thankful that there is a place like Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area that can assist, and provide support and services to so many in need in our community.
November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, please visit us on Facebook, and share with your friends that Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area is a place for those affected by this disease and their caregivers to receive help and support. Why not make plans soon to bring a friend to see our special “gem” in the Greater Baton Rouge Area. You will leave inspired.
Debbie Kidder Little – Development Director
I see the relief on the caregivers faces as they drop their loved ones off each day knowing they will have 6 precious hours of relief from the “36 hour day.” I also see the joy and happiness on the clients faces after they have spent a day at Charlie’s Place. They receive stimulation and socialization and “person centered care” by not only the staff, but the volunteers who care for them.
I am very thankful that there is a place like Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area that can assist, and provide support and services to so many in need in our community.
November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, please visit us on Facebook, and share with your friends that Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area is a place for those affected by this disease and their caregivers to receive help and support. Why not make plans soon to bring a friend to see our special “gem” in the Greater Baton Rouge Area. You will leave inspired.
Debbie Kidder Little – Development Director
Coping with Holidays & Special Events - 10 Tips for Caregivers
1. Organize events around your routine.
*When possible, keep your regular routine. It will help lower stress for you and the person you are caring for.
*Try to keep things like sleeping, eating, bathing and dressing at the same time.
2. Plan for your best time of day.
*Plan outings and events during the time of day that is best for you and the person you are caring for.
*Plan for short visits or trips out of the home. This may be easier for you and the person you are caring for to handle.
3. Don’t try to do too much.
*Set limits so that you and the person you are caring for do not become too tired or stressed.
*Save your energy for the things that you enjoy the most.
*Keep in mind that you do not have to go to every party or event.
4. Keep gatherings small.
*When possible limit the number of people who will attend.
*At a large event, see if it is possible to have a smaller space or quiet area set aside. The person you care for may benefit from the reduced stimulation.
5. Start new traditions.
*You will not let others down by changing how special times are celebrated.
*Even if hosting a big event is something that you have always done, it is OK to pass it on to another friend or family member.
*Have people over for a special dessert instead of a full meal.
*Ask others to bring a dish, game or fun activity to share.
6. Invite others to help.
*If you are planning or hosting an event, ask for help. Give some ideas, then let friends and family members choose how they would like to help.
*Some may want to bring a dish, others may want to stay and help clean up.
*Even children can set tables, make decorations and address invitations.
7. Make gift giving easy.
*Events and holidays often involve gift giving, which can add to a caregiver’s stress.
*Catalog or online shopping is a great way to save time.
*KEEP IT SIMPLE. Give a gift card or a framed copy of a special photo.
8. Plan ahead for trips and visits away from home.
*Make sure the place you are visiting is accessible for people with wheelchairs or walkers if needed.
*Talk with the host about any foods that should be avoided.
*Bring along any needed supplies such as a change of clothes or medications.
9. Talk before the holiday or special event.
*If family members and friends do not already know you are caring for a loved one, let them know before a holiday gathering.
*Send a simple note with your holiday cards or invitations. Or take a moment to call or email.
*Tell friends and family members what daily life is like and how they can help.
10. Share your wish list.
*Holidays can be a good time to ask for help.
*Let others know what you need. Be creative. Consider asking for a few hours away from caregiving, help with home chores or even a special treat for yourself.
To find this information and other resources for older adults and caregivers, visit the Eldercare Locator at
www.eldercare.gov on the internet. Or contact us here at Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area, call (225)334-7494.
Ed Picard, Respite Center Coordinator
Charlie’s Place Respite Center
*When possible, keep your regular routine. It will help lower stress for you and the person you are caring for.
*Try to keep things like sleeping, eating, bathing and dressing at the same time.
2. Plan for your best time of day.
*Plan outings and events during the time of day that is best for you and the person you are caring for.
*Plan for short visits or trips out of the home. This may be easier for you and the person you are caring for to handle.
3. Don’t try to do too much.
*Set limits so that you and the person you are caring for do not become too tired or stressed.
*Save your energy for the things that you enjoy the most.
*Keep in mind that you do not have to go to every party or event.
4. Keep gatherings small.
*When possible limit the number of people who will attend.
*At a large event, see if it is possible to have a smaller space or quiet area set aside. The person you care for may benefit from the reduced stimulation.
5. Start new traditions.
*You will not let others down by changing how special times are celebrated.
*Even if hosting a big event is something that you have always done, it is OK to pass it on to another friend or family member.
*Have people over for a special dessert instead of a full meal.
*Ask others to bring a dish, game or fun activity to share.
6. Invite others to help.
*If you are planning or hosting an event, ask for help. Give some ideas, then let friends and family members choose how they would like to help.
*Some may want to bring a dish, others may want to stay and help clean up.
*Even children can set tables, make decorations and address invitations.
7. Make gift giving easy.
*Events and holidays often involve gift giving, which can add to a caregiver’s stress.
*Catalog or online shopping is a great way to save time.
*KEEP IT SIMPLE. Give a gift card or a framed copy of a special photo.
8. Plan ahead for trips and visits away from home.
*Make sure the place you are visiting is accessible for people with wheelchairs or walkers if needed.
*Talk with the host about any foods that should be avoided.
*Bring along any needed supplies such as a change of clothes or medications.
9. Talk before the holiday or special event.
*If family members and friends do not already know you are caring for a loved one, let them know before a holiday gathering.
*Send a simple note with your holiday cards or invitations. Or take a moment to call or email.
*Tell friends and family members what daily life is like and how they can help.
10. Share your wish list.
*Holidays can be a good time to ask for help.
*Let others know what you need. Be creative. Consider asking for a few hours away from caregiving, help with home chores or even a special treat for yourself.
To find this information and other resources for older adults and caregivers, visit the Eldercare Locator at
www.eldercare.gov on the internet. Or contact us here at Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area, call (225)334-7494.
Ed Picard, Respite Center Coordinator
Charlie’s Place Respite Center
Balancing Safety and Independent Living
If you care for a person with Alzheimer’s or similar dementia, it can be difficult to decide whether they can stay at home alone. If the person does stay by themselves for any length of time, a delicate balance is required between this person’s independence and the safety precautions that must be incorporated into living arrangements. However, before changes are made, caregivers first need to evaluate how well the individual with dementia can handle daily tasks of living. It is important to directly observe the person performing these routine activities.
Use the following questions to help determine how well the person with dementia is functioning.
These questions can also help you to identify safety concerns and/or potential hazards.
Safety Questions
(Decide “yes” or “no” for each of the following questions that pertains to your loved one.)
Having driving accidents, even minor ones?
Getting lost driving or walking?
Burning pots on the stove or forgetting to turn off the burners?
Letting strangers into the house or often locking him/herself out?
Demonstrating mood swings and suspicious paranoid behavior?
At risk of injury from falls?
Personal care Questions
Eating well-balanced meals and drinking plenty of fluids?
Dresses appropriately for the weather?
Bathes and uses the toilet when needed?
Other tasks:
Keeping up with housekeeping duties?
Shopping for, storing and preparing food correctly?
Taking medication on time with the correct dosages?
Reciting his/her current address and phone number?
This list of questions is not exhaustive, but it can be used as a great start for assessing the needs for more supervision, support, or changes in living arrangements. For more information, or to receive a checklist by mail or email, please call (225) 334-7494 or email programs@alzbr.org.
Rashida Keith, Program Coordinator
Use the following questions to help determine how well the person with dementia is functioning.
These questions can also help you to identify safety concerns and/or potential hazards.
Safety Questions
(Decide “yes” or “no” for each of the following questions that pertains to your loved one.)
Having driving accidents, even minor ones?
Getting lost driving or walking?
Burning pots on the stove or forgetting to turn off the burners?
Letting strangers into the house or often locking him/herself out?
Demonstrating mood swings and suspicious paranoid behavior?
At risk of injury from falls?
Personal care Questions
Eating well-balanced meals and drinking plenty of fluids?
Dresses appropriately for the weather?
Bathes and uses the toilet when needed?
Other tasks:
Keeping up with housekeeping duties?
Shopping for, storing and preparing food correctly?
Taking medication on time with the correct dosages?
Reciting his/her current address and phone number?
This list of questions is not exhaustive, but it can be used as a great start for assessing the needs for more supervision, support, or changes in living arrangements. For more information, or to receive a checklist by mail or email, please call (225) 334-7494 or email programs@alzbr.org.
Rashida Keith, Program Coordinator
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