June 2015

Techniques to Make Care Easier

In this newsletter, we provide actionable tips for caregivers. You'll find advice on how to avoid frustration by redirecting your loved one, learn the benefits of agreement and find resources that you need.

Avoid frustration with redirection
Communication Tips: How agreement can smooth the way
Determining the right time to place
Finding available resources for caregivers
When the next Caregiver Support Group meets

And, we have highlighted June activities at the community. Read on.

Never a Dull Moment in June

The team at ActivCare at Bressi Ranch has put together an exciting calendar of activities in June. There are some truly exciting and unique events during the month.

Mark your calendar:

June 4 - Creative Craft: Kite Making
June 11 - Cooking for the Senses with Chef Art
June 18 - Going to San Diego County Fair
June 19 - Father's Day Celebration with Belly Dancers
June 25 - Senior Senior Prom
June 29 - Celebrating the 1960s
June 30 - Birthday Celebration

Don't forget that the Boys & Girls Club visits on Mondays and Tuesdays at 4 pm.

June Activity Calendar for Bressi Ranch

Redirection: The Art of Moving Focus

Have you ever been in a situation where your loved one is focused on a particular idea, activity or even question and will not relent? Here are suggestions for aiding those with dementia and redirecting their focus.

These techniques, when practiced, can reduce agitation and caregiver frustration so that the best of care can be provided.

Redirection Techniques

Town Hall Forum Presentations

Couldn't make it to our last Town Hall Forum in Lake San Marcos? No worries. Below we have links to the presentations.

Dr. John W. Daly, geriatrician, presented a comprehensive look at dementia, the warning signs and the importance of managing care after the diagnosis. Dr. Daly also discussed how to effectively communicate with your doctor and the importance of reviewing ALL medications. His presentation is below.

Dementia: After the Diagnosis - Dr. John W. Daly

Kassy Mason, MSW, from Southern Caregiver Resource Center, reviewed the importance of developing a care plan through increased knowledge, identifying challenges, knowing when to ask for help and taking care of yourself. She also shared helpful ideas such as activities for those with dementia and where to seek respite care. Her presentation follows.

Developing a Care Plan and Team: Knowing Your Resources

Also, Kassy shared this handout with all attendees.

Self-Care While Caregiving

A question was raised about when is the right time to seek out-of-home care during the Town Hall Forum. Below is an article that addresses that concern.

Determining the Right Time to Place

We understand that everyone wants to stay in the comforts and familiarity of home. But as Alzheimer's disease progresses and changes of behavior necessitate more care, it's time to consider all your options. Sometimes the home is no longer a safe environment for someone with memory loss.

Caregivers face physical, psychological, emotional and financial demands that can exceed their capacities. As you look to the future, it's the health and safety of both the caregiver and the loved one with dementia that should be of primary concern. The attached article can help caregivers determine when it's time to seek more care.

When is it Time to Place?

Caregiver Support Group

Connect with other caregivers, gain support and share your experiences. Co-sponsored with the Alzheimer's Association San Diego/Imperial Chapter, ActivCare at Bressi Ranch offers a support group for family caregivers of those with Alzheimer's and dementia. The meetings are held once a month and are free and open to the public.

Plan to join our next Caregiver Support Group meeting on Tuesday, June 9 at 10 am. Call (800) 425-2091 to reserve your spot.

In This Issue

Lively Activities in June

The Art of Redirection

Next Town Hall Forum Presentations

Determining the Right Time to Place

Caregiver Support Group

Laugh a Little

ActivCare

Memory Care Tip

Communication Tips

Clear communication with someone who has memory loss or dementia can be challenging.

Here are 10 ways to effectively communicate with those with Alzheimer's or related dementia.

10 Ways to Communicate

LAUGH A LITTLE

Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards.

One day they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, "Now don't get mad at me...I know we've been friends for a long time...but I just can't think of your name! I've thought and thought, but I can't remember it. Please tell me what your name is."

Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said, "How soon do you need to know?"

An elderly shopper at our supermarket used a check to buy such items as cotton balls, cotton swabs, powder, and cold cream. On the memo line, she'd written, "Repairs."

A police officer pulled over an elderly driver because her hand signals were confusing.

"First you put your hand up, like you're turning right, then you wave your hand up and down, then you turn left," said the officer.

"I decided not to turn right," she explained.

"Then why the up and down?" asked the officer.

"Officer," she sniffed, "I was erasing!"

ActivCare at Bressi Ranch's specially designed environment, engaging activity program and compassionate caregivers provide the perfect combination for residents with memory loss to thrive.

We invite you to take a tour and see for yourself. Please call me at (800) 425-2091.

Regards,

Maria Salinas

ActivCare at Bressi Ranch

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6255 Nygaard Street

Carlsbad, CA 92009

activcareliving.com