Senior Living Residences is proud to partner with HBO’s Alzheimer’s Project Coalition in an ambitious grassroots public education campaign to shine a spotlight on Alzheimer’s disease. In an effort to inform the public, spur discussion, and excite individuals to participate in a search for the cure, many of our communities will be airing HBO’s groundbreaking four-part documentary series, The Alzheimer’s Project, for local audiences. Read more…

The arrival of spring in New England is cause for celebration, notably referred to as “spring fever.” In nearby neighborhoods, people are ready and anxious to be outside, to soak up the anticipated sunshine and warmth of the new season.

People with Alzheimer’s disease also sense the change in season and share “spring fever,” which is often accompanied by an eagerness to be outdoors. After a long winter, a springtime walk and more time outdoors can be a welcome change in routine for people with Alzheimer’s disease as well as their caregivers. However, caregivers and people with Alzheimer’s disease need to focus on safety and be aware of the potential for wandering. Read more…

Across New England, sap lines on maple trees begin their run producing maple syrup. Songbirds such as the chickadee begin whistling, “hey, sweetie!” from the backyard feeders at our communities As the snow recedes and springtime beckons, many of us recognize a change in spirit and improved outlook. Interestingly enough, recent research indicates that having a positive outlook may decrease the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder. Read more…

The number of individuals being identified with early stage Alzheimer’s disease has grown in recent years. For the individual with the disease as well as for family members, the period of time surrounding a diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming.

Professionals in the field of Alzheimer’s disease care are responding to this population growth by developing new educational and support programs for people living with the disease. Many of these programs focus on strategies to cope with memory loss, treatment and research options, diagnostic disclosure, and planning for the future. Strong components of the programs also include the opportunity to share information and insights with others with a similar diagnosis. Read more…

While celebrating the holidays this past week with family and friends, I was reminded of the complexities of identifying changes in aging parents, especially where cognitive issues are concerned. What is normal for people as they age and what changes are cause for concern? With the extensive planning and organizing that surround the holidays as well as the occasion for extended visits, changes in cognition and memory can become apparent that were not previously noticeable. Read more…

The holiday season brings a sense of joyful anticipation for family gatherings, timeworn traditions and activities. Celebrating the holidays remains an important aspect of life for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). There are some simple considerations that can make the holidays enjoyable for the individual with AD as well as their caregivers: Read more…

Today, there are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. The number of individuals affected by this disease is expected to grow to over 7 million by the year 2030. Scientists around the world and right here in Boston are working to find treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and there is cause for hope. There are several medications currently in the final stages of clinical trials. What makes these new medications so exciting is that they are aimed at actually altering the progression of the disease. Read more…

Communication is an important part of daily life. It enables each of us to express ideas, emotions, and needs. When someone has Alzheimer’s disease, communication abilities change, though the need for expression and connection with others does not fade.

The importance of positive communication cannot be overstated when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Communicating positively with someone who has Alzheimer’s disease involves learning about how the disease affects abilities and using specific techniques to overcome limitations caused by the disease. As family members and caregivers, communication is vital in maintaining relationships as well as providing assistance as it becomes necessary. Read more…

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses and different areas of the brain are affected, an individual can exhibit new and often challenging behaviors. The disease causes cell death and diffuse tissue changes, so control of certain functions, such as perception, begin to change. Information that was once readily perceived, interpreted, understood and acted upon now becomes unreliable. Read more…

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people often repeat the same question over and over – as if their mind is caught in an endless loop. This behavior can be tiresome for caregivers. But it is important to know that your loved one is not trying to annoy you. Instead, your Mom or Dad may be feeling insecure or fearful. They repeat questions to feel in control – a feeling that is being lost slightly more and more each day. Repeating questions can drive you crazy but it provides comfort to your loved one! Read more…