Katie Evans’ Post

Alzheimer’s disease is a challenging condition that affects millions of people worldwide, but it also has some positive aspects for example, it can bring people closer together, as they share their memories, feelings and support with each other. There are many resources available for Alzheimer's patients in Ontario, such as: ●      The Alzheimer Society of Ontario, which offers programs and services to help people living with dementia, care partners, and healthcare professionals get the support they need most ●      The Dementia Friendly Communities Ontario initiative, which aims to create places where people living with dementia are understood, respected, and supported. ●      The Finding Your Way® program, which helps people living with dementia, their families, care partners, and communities recognize the risks of going missing, be prepared for incidents of going missing, and ensure that people with dementia can live safely in the community. ●      The First Link® program, which is a referral program designed to help newly diagnosed people with dementia and their families get the help they need as soon as possible. You can contact your local Alzheimer Society to get connected to this program. ●      The Minds in Motion® program, which is a physical activity and brain stimulation program for people living with early to mid-stage dementia and their care partners. ●      The U-First!® program, which is a training program designed to help frontline staff develop a common knowledge base, language, and approach to caring for people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. ●      The Telehealth Ontario service, which is here to help family care partners by connecting them to Registered Nurses over the phone when regular health services are closed on evenings and weekends. You can call 1-866-797-0000 to access this service. ●      The Ontario community services directory, which can help you find the right community services for your needs, such as respite care options, adult day programs, professional homecare services, Meals on Wheels and more. You can search for services by location or category on their website. ●      The Enhancing Care for Ontario Care Partners program, which provides in-person and online support programs for those caring for someone with dementia. You can find out more about the program on their website. We hope these resources can benefit families and their loved ones find the care and support that they deserve.

I am genuinely so excited about the Minding Dementia Summit coming up on January 23-24… And I’m not alone. People are really starting to chatter about it! Two days of valuable information from a seriously amazing line up of dementia care experts (many of whom are or will be featured in the ABC Dementia Course & Community Open Resources, by the way!). This free 2-day summit is designed to provide support and insights for those affected by and living with Alzheimer's and Dementia through a series of short interviews with top experts in the dementia care field. Topics include: -Building a Support System for Dementia Family Caregivers -Communicating Effectively with a Person with Dementia -Identifying Needs & Magnifying Solutions in Dementia Care -Estate and Financial Planning After a Dementia Diagnosis -Inspiring Dementia Care Teams -The Family Caregiver Burnout Epidemic -Finding Resources for Family Caregivers and their Loved Ones -Suicide Prevention as a Care Giver Health and Safety Priority -Caregiving for the Overwhelmed and Anxious and many more... Secure your spot now through the registration link in the comments to ensure you don't miss out. This event will be live-streamed from 9 am to 5 pm Pacific Time on January 23, 2024. Sessions on January 24th, 2024 will be shared via email for viewing throughout the day. Additionally, recordings will be available for purchase for both January 23-24 for those unable to attend live. Don't miss this chance to access invaluable guidance and support from experts in Alzheimer's and Dementia care. Share Minding Dementia Summit LIVE with friends, family, or anyone who might benefit. Spread the word and make a difference in someone life.

This topic is near and dear to my heart. If you have a loved one who is or has battled with Dementia then I hope we can provide some helpful information in this series. Stay tuned and please share if you know someone that this information could be helpful to. #SeniorCare #dementia #alzheimers #eldercare #houstontx #HomeMatters #HomeCare #elderlycare

🧠 New Blog Series: Navigating the Journey of Dementia Care 🧠 This week we are posting a three-part blog series dedicated to understanding and navigating the complexities of dementia care. At Home Matters Caregiving, we recognize the challenges faced by seniors with dementia and their caregivers. This series aims to provide valuable insights, practical tips, and compassionate advice to support you on this journey. Upcoming Topics: 📖 Understanding Dementia in Seniors Our first blog delves into what dementia is, its various forms, early signs, and the daily impact it has on seniors and their caregivers. 🗣️ Effective Communication with Dementia Patients The second post in our series focuses on enhancing communication with individuals living with dementia, offering strategies to improve interactions and understanding. 🏡 Creating a Dementia-Friendly Environment The final installment provides guidance on adapting your living space to make it safer and more comfortable for loved ones with dementia, ensuring their well-being. Home Matters's Role in Dementia Care at Home: Throughout this series, we'll also share insights into how Home Matters Caregiving can assist in providing specialized care for those with dementia. Our experienced caregivers are trained to create nurturing environments, offer tailored support, and provide the compassionate care that your loved ones deserve. Stay Tuned and Share the Knowledge: We encourage you to check back for each post in this series. Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or friend of someone with dementia, this series offers valuable information that can make a real difference in their care and quality of life. Don't forget to share these posts with friends, family, and anyone who might benefit from a deeper understanding of dementia care. Together, we can make a positive impact in the lives of those affected by dementia. Join us in this important conversation and be a part of a community that cares.

🧠💭 Embracing Compassion in Dementia Care 💭🧠 In a world that often prioritizes efficiency and productivity, it is crucial to remember the importance of compassion in dementia care. As individuals living with dementia navigate the complexities of memory loss and cognitive decline, they deserve to be met with empathy, understanding, and patience at every turn. Here are some key insights to consider: - **Empathy as a Fundamental Pillar**: Empathy is not just a word to throw around; it is the cornerstone of effective dementia care. Putting yourself in the shoes of those grappling with this condition can cultivate a profound sense of connection and solidarity. - **The Power of Active Listening**: Sometimes, the most meaningful support we can offer is a listening ear. Taking the time to truly listen to the experiences, emotions, and needs of individuals living with dementia can make a world of difference in their quality of life. - **Holistic Approaches Yield Results**: Dementia care should never be one-size-fits-all. Embracing holistic approaches that address physical, emotional, and social aspects can provide comprehensive support that nurtures the individual as a whole. - **Educating and Informing**: Knowledge is power, especially in the realm of dementia care. Educating oneself and others about the intricacies of dementia can break down stigmas, foster understanding, and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment. - **Paving the Way for Innovation**: Embracing innovation in dementia care can open doors to new possibilities and solutions. Whether through technology, research, or creative interventions, thinking outside the box is key to enhancing the quality of care provided. - **Cultivating a Community of Care**: Dementia care is a team effort that extends beyond healthcare professionals. Building a community of care that includes family members, friends, caregivers, and beyond can create a robust support system that uplifts those impacted by dementia. - **Embracing the Journey**: Above all, it is essential to recognize that dementia is a journey, not a destination. Embracing this journey with compassion, resilience, and a commitment to dignity and respect can elevate the standard of care for all involved. In the realm of dementia care, compassion is not just a nice-to-have; it is a non-negotiable component that underpins every aspect of support and assistance. Let us strive to cultivate a culture of compassion that celebrates the humanity, individuality, and inherent worth of those living with dementia. #DementiaCare #CompassionInCare #EmpathyMatters 🌟 How do you incorporate compassion into your approach to dementia care? Share your insights and experiences below to spark meaningful conversations and foster a community of compassion and support! 🌟

Resilience in focus at the International Caregivers Association In the world of dementia care, resilience is critical for care services to secure sustainability, especially in this Century. That is what the founding president of the International Caregivers Association (ICA), Dr. Ethelle Lord, believes and recently launched the Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) business model of dementia care, a new standard in the healthcare field. “Owners, operators, administrators of dementia care services can seize the opportunity to be ahead of the curve in dementia care and adopt the TDI to realize sustainability, inclusivity, and long-term care services for decades to come.” The ICA defines resilience in dementia care as the ability to withstand adversities, return to form, maintain strength, and not give up on people living with dementia and their families. It also means the ability to adapt well in the face of trials and tribulations. With the increase in dementia diagnosis, now more and more in young-onset with 20-year-old patients diagnosed with vascular dementia, the pressure is on to adapt and to improve on care and services. Visit the ICA (ICAcares.com) to better understand how your organization/facility/type of services can adopt dementia resilience in your internal and external operations to ensure growth and sustainability in the face of these new challenges dementia care is facing now and into the future. “Be ready by implementing the TDI model that will assure your program(s) keep up with both the demand and the challenges in dementia care today.” Request a free consulting session today.

Shropshire Families Invited To Learn More About Dementia Families of people living with dementia were given the opportunity to learn more about the condition with a free workshop run by Sandstone Care Group. The event, which took place at Telford Hall Care Home this week, offered expert advice on how to support loved ones through a diagnosis, as part of Dementia Action Week. Hosted by Jay Chaplin, Sandstone Care Group’s Regional Training and Development Manager, the four-hour session included practical strategies to assist their friends and family members facing dementia. It was the second workshop to be held by Telford Hall following a successful launch in March, with plans to roll out the initiative across more Sandstone-owned homes. Jay said: "Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be devastating for both the individual affected and their loved ones. It is often a brand-new concept for many families and can be a daunting prospect to have to deal with. “That’s why we want to lend a hand to those trying to understand the condition and, importantly, help them give the best possible support to their loved one. “It is certainly not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, but we hope that our workshops will help set people in the right direction to coping more effectively.” The workshop was held during Dementia Action Week which, this year, highlights the importance of diagnosis. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, one in three people with dementia do not have a diagnosis, yet 91% of those affected say there are benefits to getting a diagnosis. Valerie Herbert, Area Manager for Sandstone Care Group, said: "Our first couple of dementia workshops have proven to be hugely popular, with those attending feeling empowered to tackle the challenges that lie ahead when caring for a loved one with dementia. “Seeing a loved one show signs of dementia is never easy but, with the right support, it is possible to ensure they have the best possible quality of life. “We’re now planning a series of workshops across some of our other care homes, so we’re looking forward to extending our support to more families.” Read More:

What to Expect with Late Stage Dementia Symptoms Highlights: 0:08 - Three things to expect while your loved one is going through late stage dementia symptoms 2:22 - The timeline for dementia can vary greatly 3:50 - Your loved one with dementia will need 24/7 care 4:08 - Late stage dementia patients connect with the world through their senses 5:12 - Stories of late stage dementia patients who still find joy and connection 6:07 - A heartwarming story of a late stage dementia patient engaging through singing This video discusses what to expect when a loved one is going through late stage dementia symptoms. The timeline for dementia can vary greatly, with some experiencing a rapid decline while others may have a slower progression. It is important to consult with a doctor or specialist for a more accurate timeline. Late stage dementia patients require 24/7 care, including assistance with daily activities. Caregivers have the option to provide care at home or consider placing their loved ones in a skilled nursing center or facility. Late stage dementia patients often connect with the world through their senses, as language abilities decline. Engaging with them through activities that involve their senses can bring joy and maintain a sense of connection. The video also shares a heartwarming story of a late stage dementia patient who engaged with others through singing, highlighting the importance of recognizing the person behind the disease. Watch the video here.  https://lnkd.in/g4Bfd8QW

Dementia is a condition that impacts memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. At HAII, we are deeply committed to transforming the way dementia is detected and managed through innovative digital solutions. Here are some important facts about dementia: 🧠 Dementia and Demographics While dementia predominantly affects the elderly, it’s not exclusive to them. Anyone can be affected by dementia since it's caused by various diseases, not just one. Younger individuals with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or arteriosclerosis could also be at risk. 🔍 Alzheimer’s and Dementia There’s often confusion between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Alzheimer's is actually the most common form of dementia, not a separate condition. Symptoms like depression, disorientation, and impaired communication could indicate Alzheimer’s. If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, consult a doctor about dementia. 🌍 Demographic Disparities Dementia doesn’t discriminate, but it does impact certain groups more. Women are diagnosed more often than men, largely due to longer life expectancy. People in lower-income areas are also more vulnerable, and the rate of dementia in these regions is expected to rise significantly over the next 30 years. 💪 Living with Dementia A dementia diagnosis is life-changing, but it doesn’t mean life has to stop. With the right support, individuals with dementia can still lead active and fulfilling lives. Memory care facilities that prioritize independence in a safe, nurturing environment can help maintain a strong sense of self. At HAII, we’ve developed Alzguard, a cutting-edge digital diagnostic aid for early dementia detection. Our goal is to make dementia diagnosis and management accessible, accurate, and efficient. Learn more about how we’re making a difference in dementia care. Visit us at haiiglobal.com

Are there benefits to an early dementia diagnosis? At the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence Summit, James Janeiro interviewed Lisa Rate. Like many people, she mentioned the stress of making decisions without necessarily knowing exactly what Bruce would want. This morning the research, A qualitative study of informal caregiver perceptions of the benefits of an early dementia diagnosis by Elyse Couch, Melissa Co, Chris Albertyn, Matthew Prina &  Vanessa Lawrence  From the caregiver's viewpoint, the benefits of an early dementia diagnosis include: 1. Protecting the person with dementia from financial or physical harm: Early diagnosis can help caregivers intervene in situations where the person with dementia may be at risk of financial exploitation or accidents. 2. Timely decision-making: Knowing the diagnosis early allows for better planning and decision-making regarding the person's care preferences, which can bring comfort during later stages of the disease. 3. Access to services and treatments: Early diagnosis enables access to specialist services, treatments (both pharmacological and non-pharmacological), and information on how to best support the person with dementia. These benefits underscore the importance of early diagnosis in improving the quality of care and support for individuals with dementia, as perceived by caregivers. The authors identified 3 conditions necessary for caregivers to experience the benefits of an early dementia diagnosis: 1. Adequate prognostic information: Caregivers need to have access to accurate and timely information about the progression of the disease to effectively plan and provide care. 2. Someone to advocate on behalf of the person with dementia: Having an advocate can ensure that the person with dementia receives appropriate care and support, especially in situations where the individual may be unable to make decisions for themselves. 3. Willingness to seek and accept the diagnosis: Both the person with dementia and the caregiver need to be open to seeking and accepting the diagnosis to facilitate early access to services and treatments. These conditions maximize the benefits of an early dementia diagnosis for caregivers and improve the overall care and well-being of individuals with dementia. The article is open access through Springer Nature Group BMC Health Services Research https://bit.ly/3RrEC7s If you are a healthcare provider who wants to learn more about partnering with family caregivers, our Caregiver-Centered Care Education is Free online and comes with a Continuing Competency Certificate. www.caregivercare.ca