Adventures of a Caregiver

Caregiver Resources

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Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Information

Mayo Clinic (Dementia)

Information on dementia symptoms, causes, and complications; disorders linked to dementia; and dementia-like symptoms that can be reversed. Visit their website here.

 

NIH – National Institute on Aging

This site has lots of general info on Alzheimer’s and other dementias. It’s especially helpful for family members of newly diagnosed individuals. Here’s a link to their Alzheimer’s Fact Sheet.

 

Teepa Snow’s Youtube Channel

Teepa has years of experience working with dementia patients. Watching her videos renewed my patience with my mom as they taught me how to look at dementia in an entirely new way.  Her videos explain how the brains of dementia patients work, along with practical advice on what to say and do. They are wonderful! Here’s the link to Teepa’s channel.

 

The Conversation Project

Download a Conversation Starter Kit to help you have a conversation with your loved one about their wishes regarding end-of-life care. It’s a tough topic, but so important to do this as early as possible.

 

My Caregiver Toolkit Essentials

Cricut Maker (or Explore)

I call this thing my secret caregiver hack! Mom loves to make crafts and the Cricut allows me to prepare them for her in a snap! It saves SO MUCH time! Also, the crafts she does with Cricut cut pieces look so nice, and she’s always proud of her results. ❤️ I have the Cricut Maker, and it was really easy to get set up and going with it.

Alzheimer’s Clock

I gave this clock to my mom for Christmas, and it has been the best thing ever! Not only does it prevent her from asking me what day it is about 10,000 times a day, it also reduces her anxiety. After having it for about a week she said, “I love my new clock. It makes me feel not so lost all the time.” ❤️ We have this one: American Lifetime Day Clock. It was super easy to set up, and it’s easy for Mom to read.

 

Cleanup Helps

I’ll spare you the details, but I encourage you to have these basic supplies on hand to make those inevitable poop 💩 cleanups a little more manageable.