Who needs a pacemaker?

Who needs a pacemaker?

The signs of needing a pacemaker can be easy to miss at first. You might notice fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or confusion in your loved one. Or hear them commenting, “I just don’t feel right anymore.” If a slow heart rate (bradycardia) is...
When reasoning becomes a concern

When reasoning becomes a concern

When an aging loved one starts making what you consider poor decisions, it’s worrisome. Are they no longer thinking straight? Is this normal aging or something more serious? There are two terms to know when concerns arise about cognition: capacity and...
Options for taking a break from caregiving

Options for taking a break from caregiving

If you’re providing care for your loved one, you may long for a night to call your own. Better yet, a few days and nights of R&R. Go to bed when you’re ready, sleep deeply, and do what you want all day! A respite break isn’t indulgent, it’s...
Using distraction in dementia care

Using distraction in dementia care

If the person you care for has a problem with memory loss (dementia), you may find that they get agitated about things that don’t make sense. Your long-retired dad, for instance, may wake up in the mornings and insist, “I have to go to work!” It can...
Managing anger as a family caregiver

Managing anger as a family caregiver

Anger as an emotion is neither good nor bad. It is a messenger. It can provide energy and motivate you to action. Chances are you have felt angry at some point during your experience of caring for a loved one. It’s normal! However, anger by itself has never...