Applewood Our House made many adjustments in 2020. It seemed that each day was the new normal of everyday life throughout the year. As 2019 turned into 2020, all seemed well as we were moving into a year of stability and balance. That was our goal. We planned to continue to improve the lives of our residents with an incredible engagement program, include our families in many fun activities, and make Applewood Our House the…
Some people wonder why I love caregiving. Yes, it can be mentally and physically challenging. But for me, it means so much more. Caregiving to another human being is a gift and a privilege. I don’t just get paid to “wipe bottoms”… I kiss your mom on the forehead and say, “I love you, good night,” every night when I help her to bed. I tell her that I hope she has sweet dreams and…
As I begin to write this letter I am feeling the consequences of being a ten year dementia caregiver. I often think about the fact that it is never going to get better. My happiness now depends upon whether or not my husband smiles or doesn’t smile. When I first awaken him while sleeping in his chair, if he smiles, I know it is a good day. If he doesn’t smile, and has trouble getting…
There are multiple benefits of singing for seniors with dementia. We often hear that listening to music helps those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, but singing is often overlooked. People love to sing a good song. It might be in the shower, while ironing clothes, or during a drive to work. It’s not essential if you consider yourself a singer or not, it’s just a natural and enjoyable part of life and is another form…
Yoga for seniors is an excellent method to relieve stress, stay flexible, and remain healthy. In this article, we are going to help seniors to get a better understanding of the benefits of yoga exercise. Seniors have become the fastest growing group in the United States. With more people living to advanced ages, problems of chronic illnesses, movement, and mobility begin to become a problem. Yoga is one way to combat the collective effect of…
Caring for Elderly Parents is an enormous responsibility. During the best of times, it requires a lot of time, patience, and understanding. Are you up for the task? As the average life expectancy of Americans tops 78 years, Baby Boomers (those born between and including 1946 and 1964) have taken on another responsibility: that of caregivers for their elderly parents. This phenomenon of “the child becoming the parent” has left many scared, frustrated, and isolated,…