You Cannot Pour from an Empty Cup

Music Therapy for Dementia

My mother was suffering from dementia and was legally blind. It was difficult to think of activities for her. Then I remembered that many years earlier she was a fan of a TV program called Sing Along with Mitch, which featured the Mitch Miller Orchestra. As the lyrics scrolled across the screen the "home audience" was encouraged to sing along with the performers.

Now Mother was long past being able to watch television, but the Mitch Miller audio tapes and CDs were easily available. I bought one and played it for her. Not only did she enjoy listening to the music, but she also remembered many of the lyrics to once again "sing along."

These songs also triggered other memories and Mother began reminiscing about various people and events, something that she had not done in a very long time. It made us both happy

The Alzheimer's Association recommends using music therapy and has helpful suggestions for choosing and using music at: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-music-art-therapy.asp

 

Caregiving and the Sandwich Generation

A recent article in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch discusses an innovative solution for elder care--young adults are living with their grandparents so they can care for each other.
Read the full article here:

http://www.stltoday.com/business/local/creative-caregiving-solutions-for-the-sandwich-generation/article_a2870605-04c6-5237-8a01-df788cf251dd.html

Alzheimer's Fundraising: Longest Day, June 21, 2017

From the Alzheimer's Association:

"The Longest Day is all about love. Love for all those affected by Alzheimer's disease. On the summer solstice, team up with the Alzheimer’s Association and select any activity you love — or an activity loved by those affected — to help end Alzheimer’s. Together, we will raise funds and awareness for care and support while advancing research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s."

More information available here: www.alz.org/thelongestday

Mind Your Own Business: Financial elder abuse leaves caregivers strapped

 

 

 

According to a study of 1,000 caregivers, financial abuse of the elderly affects caregivers, too. Caregivers of the financially abused spend 56% more in caregiving than other caregivers.

 

 

You can read the article here:

http://newsok.com/article/5543156