What is hospice anyway?  Most people are very confused or ignorant about the benefits of hospice, primarily because they have never needed it.  So what is hospice? There are 2 parts to a hospice organization:  First is palliative care services and second is hospice care. Palliative care is for people who are NOT actively…

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This is a fairly new trail drug that was very effective in a United Kingdom trial recently.  In the UK the small group of participants had their Alzheimer’s reversed or the progression halted. So exciting! This video is about a 4 year study that is taking place at Butler Hospital, here in Providence, with Dr.…

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  Why is it that in so many families it is just one person who is providing the majority of the care? Statistically it is usually, but not always, is a female. And usually it’s the oldest daughter or the daughter who lives the closest.   So where are all the other siblings? If you…

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Wedding bands and engagement rings….. family necklaces….heirloom broaches….   Alzheimer’s and dementia (AD/D) loved ones may become paranoid or suspicious about family or staff “stealing” their belongings. This may happen because they forget where they have put their valuable items.  On the other hand, they may really be upset because you have taken the car…

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Any one who has worked in the health care industry or has had a dementia patient at home knows how behaviors can literally change overnight when someone has an UTI. Almost any “challenging” behavior will be exaggerated or magnified greatly when someone has an UTI. I had a recent personal experience that made me question…

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Are you about to have surgery? Or have you recently had surgery and don’t feel like you are back to “normal” yet? . “26% of surgery patients leave Intensive Care Units with new, Alzheimer’s-like symptoms.”  . “Patients treated in intensive care units across the globe enter with no evidence of cognitive impairment but oftentimes leave…

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Red Plates vs. White Plates?? Does it make a difference for persons with Alzheimer’s.  Does it really matter what color plate or coffee mug is used for someone with AD? The answer is YES!   According to a study completed at Boston University in 2004, “40% of individuals with severe Alzheimer’s lose an unhealthy amount…

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   Caregivers removing car keys and their loved one’s ability to drive is a very difficult decision.  Perhaps this article by Dr. Brian Ott of Rhode Island Hospital will assist you in making a responsible decision when the time is appropriate. *** “Driving Impairment May Be a Sign of Very Early Alzheimer’s Disease . Brain…

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Dear Friends, The Fall 2017     [Highlight this link and go to page 3 for article about Doreen] issue of the AFTD Newsletter spotlights all aspects of our mission, from spreading FTD awareness, to advancing groundbreaking scientific research, to helping members of the FTD community connect with one another. Doreen Putnam In this issue,…

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