The National Alzheimer’s Association’s updated their best practice recommendations for person-centered dementia care in 2018 and for the first time included workforce (staff) as a separate and important component/area of concentration. The workforce recommendations, released in the 2018 Dementia Care…
In a recent discussion, an Administrator asked about hiring and the rapid turnover often seen in long-term care. Some suggested it was normal, just part of the business and nothing could be done. I say not so! Selecting staff is…
A recent conversation among long-term care leaders illuminated current beliefs about staff training and education in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. While one participant asked how many hours of training is necessary for staff to be competent in providing quality memory…
I am looking forward to presenting at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Concepts in Care Conference on Wednesday, June 7th in Franklin, Tennessee. The conference will be held at The Franklin Theater. In celebration of its 15th anniversary, Alzheimer’s Foundation of…
When I see an interesting title for an article posted on the Alzheimer’s Reading Room or the Huffington Post, I always look further and all too often it is written by Dr. Marie Marley. One such title and article is…
Families and healthcare professionals question medication use for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia, especially due to the media coverage about the overutilization and potential dangers of antipsychotics and other medications. It is important to investigate potential causes…
While I’ve written about customer service before, a friend’s recent experience prompts me to write again. My friend, Amy, was asked to help find a facility for a relative with memory loss. This relative had been diagnosed with dementia some…
The title of a recent column caught my eye and perhaps yours as well. The column was entitled, “Alzheimer’s and joy, an unlikely couple.” I was a bit surprised by the author’s perspective, but perhaps I shouldn’t have been. Many…
The start of a new year often brings promises that “this year” you are going to take better care of yourself, relax, eat healthy foods, and eliminate stress. All of this is good given everything we know about health habits…
The holidays are a time of year when we strive to create happy memories. We take joy in organizing events for family and friends, socializing, exchanging gifts, and enjoying the company of those we love. Yet as our relatives age…