Shorter Days and Dementia: Fighting Late-Day Confusion

One of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is late-day confusion. Often called “sundowning,” this phenomenon usually worsens as the days get shorter. If someone you care for has dementia, you may notice them getting more confused and agitated in late afternoon and evening. As the days get shorter, late-day confusion … Read more

Visiting Hospice Patients: Top 5 Questions Answered

If you know someone in hospice care, you may have concerns about visiting. Will you disturb them? Will you make them feel worse? Will they be able to enjoy your visit? These are all valid questions, and their answers may depend on specific circumstances. However, there is one question that has a very clear answer. … Read more

Giving is Living–7 Ways Helping Others Helps You

“It is more blessed to give than receive” is one of the most repeated Biblical quotes in our language. This is most likely due to the fact that so many people have recognized it’s powerful truth. Even people who don’t necessarily believe the Bible have experienced the blessing of giving to and serving others. Science … Read more

5 Steps to Prepare for End-of-Life Care

The Day That Changes Everything. No one is prepared for it, ever. It’s the day that changes everything. It turns your emotions, your outlook, your whole life completely upside down. It’s the day you or a loved one get a terminal diagnosis. Nothing can prepare you for the news that your life will most likely not … Read more

Summer Heat & Senior Safety

Seniors & Heat Most people see heat as a nuisance. But significant and prolonged summer heat is potentially deadly, especially to seniors. Nearly 400 deaths each year are attributed to heat waves in America. And most of those are seniors. This is a staggering thought. But it’s particularly disconcerting for seniors and those who care … Read more

Spring & Summer Senior Fitness Tips

Fitness is important. All of us agree that physical fitness is important. Not only does physical fitness help us feel better physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. That means that when we’re active, were healthier, happier, and sharper, too! But as we get older, many of us find it more difficult to stay active. … Read more

3 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

Caregivers are heroes If you’re a caregiver for a hospice patient, Alzheimer’s patient, or anyone with long-term needs, you are a true hero. You sacrifice in ways many others do not understand. Yes, it’s rewarding, but it can also be very taxing emotionally as well as physically. It’s important to watch for signs of burnout. … Read more

Happiness Part 2: 3 Systems to Sustain Happiness

Starting With Happiness Last month we started a series on happiness. We’ll do this at the beginning of each month for a while. Why? Hospice and Palliative care patients, understandably, often suffer from temporary or clinical depression. Families and friends often do not know how to help. So we’re starting each month spending time looking … Read more

Are You Storm-Ready?

Spring is Here! Spring is here! That means different things to different people. For kids it means more hours playing outside. For families it may mean planning a vacation. But for all of us, it means getting ready for storms! Spring storms can present problems for anyone, but if you’re a senior, it can be … Read more

Ready For Spring? Top 10 Outdoor Activities for Seniors

Some hospice patients are able to continue doing many of the things they love for quite some time. However, for many, that is not possible. Many factors related to life-limiting or terminal conditions can change what we’re able to do. But activity, as much as is possible, is healthy and recommended for most patients. So … Read more