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The holidays can be a stressful time for many care partners as they juggle caring responsibilities, organizing functions, and different events with friends and family. This holiday season, it is important to ensure that you as a care partner are taking care of yourself and getting the rest and relaxation you deserve.

A good way to help ensure that your loved one is cared for and everything is arranged is to plan a schedule of your holidays. Make notes on a calendar of the places you need to be, things you need to bring, and how you're going to get there. Plan out activities for your loved one to bring along with them in the case that they might want some down time. Take an hour or two and map out your holidays and create to-do lists so that you can stay on track and not feel overwhelmed last minute. 

Another aspect that will make your holidays smooth is to distribute tasks to others. Think of stepping on ice, when you're putting pressure on only one point, the ice is much more likely to crack as opposed to when you distribute the weight evenly. Share some of your tasks with friends and family and don't be afraid to say yes and ask for help! The holidays can be stressful enough already, but as a care partner it is important that you ask for help. The holiday season encourages individuals to give, so do not be afraid to receive! 

Take time for yourself. I know that sounds selfish, but as a care partner, it's okay to spend some quality time on you. Ask a friend or family to swing by for a visit and take some much deserve you time. Read a book, go on a walk, take an extra long bath, grab a coffee, do whatever you want to do for that time and come back feeling refreshed and relaxed. The care you offer to someone else is only as good as the care you give to yourself. 

At the end of the day, do not beat yourself up if everything did not go as planned. Be flexible, take a deep breath, laugh and enjoy time with friends and family. Keep in mind that you are doing your best and if you and your loved one are having a good time, then that is all that matters! And if they might be frustrated, overwhelmed, or not as cheerful at times, try to encourage them to laugh it off with you! Tell stories that will make them laugh, play a game, or do something that you know will boost their spirits. 

What do you do as a care partner over the holiday season? Share with us in the comments below!

This Christmas, make your holiday a dementia-friendly Christmas! Today we share strategies for maintaining a dementia-friendly atmosphere while celebrating the holiday season. 

What exactly does dementia-friendly mean?

Dementia-friendly means to respect, support, and understand persons living with dementia and be inclusive to individuals. Being dementia-friendly means that you are not only supporting persons with dementia but supporting all persons. As a way to be dementia-friendly this holiday season, it's important that you understand dementia and the ways in which individuals might need extra assistance or redirection. It's essential not to argue with a person with dementia even if they might not be entirely correct. Instead, agree with individuals and support them in the present moment. Create an atmosphere that is welcoming, not too overwhelming, and make a quiet, safe area for a loved one with dementia to go to if they do begin feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. This provides them with the opportunity to take a break and relax, allowing them to have a more enjoyable time.

For example, if your family opens gifts on Christmas day and typically go around a circle subsequently and your loved one is no longer opening gifts in the same order, do not argue or disagree with them and let them continue opening their presents the way they want to. Be flexible and open to adaptations. 

Creating a dementia-friendly environment

It's essential that you understand your loved one with dementia and create an environment that empowers them to continue engaging with others and makes them feel comfortable. Loud music, a lot of conversations, and full spaces can make persons with dementia feel overwhelmed. Ensure there are no obstacles in the path of travel that could lead to any accidents. Be aware of these sensory aspects in the environment and make your loved one feel comfortable. If they seem overwhelmed, ask them what you can do to make their experience better. Perhaps reading a favourite story, listening to calming Christmas music, or sipping their favourite drink might help them relax.

Keep in mind their personal preferences and offer options

What are some of their favourite traditions or things to do over the holiday season? Provide them with the opportunity to make choices about what they want to do and offer options for them. This allows persons with dementia to feel dignified when provided with choices. Keep in mind that everyone experiences dementia differently, so knowing each person's preferences is an important aspect to providing the best care.

Visiting in long-term care

If your loved one is in long-term care this holiday season, pay them a nice visit! Bring along any of their favourite holiday things and create an environment filled with Christmas cheer and the special time of year. The holiday season can often be a time where persons living with dementia can feel isolated or lonely, but by stopping in and visiting them, this can have such a positive impact. At the end of the day everyone, no matter a dementia diagnosis or not, should enjoy the holiday season alongside their friends and family. 

How do you make your home or space dementia-friendly over the holiday season? Share with us in the comments below!

A common aspect of dementia is wandering. Wandering is when individuals with dementia might leave their home or their specific location without even realizing. Wandering can lead to individuals leaving their home and getting into a dangerous situation. For care partners, this can be a very scary situation.

If you are out in public and happen to find a person who you might assume has dementia, what should you do? Today, we share some tips on how to handle the situation and reconnect them with their loved ones or return to their home. 

If you find a person who you believe has dementia who approaches you asking how they could get home or if they are looking for someone and you do not know how to handle the situation, consider doing these things:

1. Introduce yourself and ask them what their name is. If the individual is not able to express their name to you, compliment them on their bracelet if it's visible and take a look to see if it will provide you with any additional information. Never assume anyone has dementia, so treat them as anyone else should be treated. Ask them how they are doing and gain a sense of trust. Additionally, not every person with dementia is an older adult, persons can be diagnosed as early as 40 years old.  

2. Individuals with dementia who live in retirement residences or long-term care typically wear a bracelet identifying who they are and which room they live in. Individuals who reside in their own home might also have a MedicAlert bracelet that provides identifying information on it along with an emergency responder number. This might help in identifying the individual and seeking help for them.

3. Ask them who they might be looking for and offer your phone so they can call them. If they do not know the number, try doing a Reverse411 based on their name and find their phone number. 

4. If they seem panicked and frustrated, offer them with some calm, reassuring words, and offer to help them get to where they need to be. Be friendly, non-judgmental, and avoid arguing. If a person does become aggressive, keep yourself safe and offer the help that you feel comfortable with providing.

5. If they cannot get a hold of their loved one, phone the police and inquire if there have been any calls about this person's whereabouts. Do not offer to drive the person to their home, it is best to try to contact their family members and authorities before leaving a location. 

6. The authorities can meet you and help the individual return home or back to their loved ones. Remain a friend in this moment and reassure them while waiting for the authorities. Spark a conversation about something off-topic to help take their mind off of the overwhelming situation. 

7. Wait for the police or relatives to meet the person at the location and make sure they are in good hands. Pat yourself on the back for helping this person return to their location or back with their loved ones safely. Your efforts will be very much appreciated. 

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease in which individual's present low bone mass and their bone tissue deteriorates. Ultimately, this increases the risk of fractures to the bones, with the most common being hip, spine, wrist, and shoulder. 

Who is Affected?

Canadians are most often affected over the age of 50, however osteoporosis can affect anyone. Approximately two million Canadians are diagnosed with osteoporosis. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience a fracture due to their osteoporosis. 

What Treatment is Available?

There is currently no cure for osteoporosis but treatment options are available to help reduce the loss of bone mass and the risk of fractures. The treatment options that exist are typically medications and individuals can speak to their doctors about finding what will work best for them. 

Another important role in the treatment process is to maintain a healthy level of vitamin D and calcium within your diet. This will help to maintain healthy bones and should be done proactively throughout your life to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

How can you Support People with Osteoporosis?

Be a person of support for a loved one with osteoporosis. Many individuals do not know they have osteoporosis because it is quite asymptomatic prior to a fracture. Be a source of encouragement for your loved one and support them if they experience a fracture. Encourage them to eat a healthy diet rich in Vitamin D and Calcium, and do so yourself. Participate in activities together that are safe for both of you. Join a support group if you are seeking more help or advice from others or need someone to lean on. There are many resources available through Osteoporosis Canada. 

Osteoporosis and Dementia

Research has found that osteoporosis and dementia are more prevalent in women. As such, it is important to stay informed of the risk of osteoporosis. If you are a care partner of a person living with dementia, ensure they continue getting the right nutrients. If you begin to think their bones are not as strong as they used to be or have experienced a fracture, it's important to speak with your doctor to have them tested for osteoporosis. Stay aware, informed, and know the risks involved. This will help to make the transition easier and to maintain your loved one's overall health.

What do you do to support people living with osteoporosis? Share with us in the comments below!

References

Osteoporosis Canada (2019). What is osteoporosis? Retrieved from https://osteoporosis.ca/about-the-disease/what-is-osteoporosis/ 

Osteoporosis Canada (2019). Treatment. Retrieved from https://osteoporosis.ca/about-the-disease/treatment/

This week, November 11-17, is Digital Health Week! The Canadian health care system continues to transform due to technological advances. This means that individuals are now able to access their results, attend appointments easier and virtually, and for doctors to access patient information more efficiently. Today we touch on how making this shift to digital health will offer more opportunities for the health care system as well as for individuals. 

Digital health includes using technology to improve health care and offer more efficient, effective services for individuals. Digital health can be confidently shared amongst healthcare practitioners and clinics. It helps to keep track of an individual's health care and data without the hassle of paperwork. A client's healthcare record can be easily accessed and test results can be viewed much faster, meaning improved care for individuals.

For individuals living with dementia, this might help to transfer this information from memory clinics to their general practitioner as well as monitor cognition over time. As many individuals see a variety of doctors for their dementia diagnosis, it allows practitioners with faster results and an easier look into the individual's file.

While this process is still transforming, some clinics have taken the leap to shift to digital health records to keep track of their files.  

What are your thoughts on digital health? Share with us in the comments below!

References

Canada Health Infoway (2019). What is digital health? Retrieved from https://infoway-inforoute.ca/en/what-we-do/benefits-of-digital-health/what-is-digital-health

Approximately 20-30% of Canadians over the age of 65 fall each year. Many of these falls can be prevented by taking simple steps to ensure safety. We share tips for preventing falls. 

Reduce Obstacles around your Home

The most preventable method to reduce the risk of falling is to clean up obstacles around your home that may increase the risk of tripping or slipping. For example, tidy up any clutter around your house and keep it away from your walking paths. Remove any rugs around your home that might be easily tripped over or secure them to the floor. A fun way to help declutter is to analyze your home with family members or friends and create a 'scavenger hunt' activity to identify any areas of concern. 

Install Grab Bars or use Assistive Devices where Needed

Grab bars and assistive devices should be used for prevention, meaning it is a good idea to install them prior to any accidents occurring. For example, grab bars are easy to install near toilets, sinks, showers and bathtubs, or in your bedroom. They are a cost effective item that can be that extra support when you might need it most. If you begin noticing concerns moving throughout your home, think about using an assistive device, such as a cane or walker. Speak to your doctor about what you are experiencing and what they recommend for you. There are many resources available to help cover the costs of assistive devices, inquire about these options prior to purchasing a brand new item.

Practice Balance Exercises

If you are willing and able, balance exercises are a great way to prevent falls and to maintain your physical health. Make an appointment with a physical therapist to learn some new balance exercises that you can implement throughout your day. These simple exercises can be carried out anywhere and are a great way to start your day. 

Wear Proper Footwear

Purchase a supportive, non-slip shoe that will help to reduce the chances of falling. Even if you are heading out the door to quickly grab something, always ensure you are wearing proper footwear. Investing in a good pair of shoes is definitely worth it and helps keep you safe. 

Ensure Proper Lighting throughout your Home

With the change of seasons, there is also a change in sunlight. Setup your home so that there is adequate lighting and if you feel it is difficult to see at times, install more lamps throughout your home. LED lights are much brighter, last longer, and are much more efficient. Consider installing LED lights in your home. Additionally, leave a light on when you go to bed. In the case nature calls overnight, this way you will have light to help guide you. Another way to help light your home is through the use of nightlights or lights for your outlets. Adequate lighting in your home is important not to trip over anything and to see where you are going.

Place Non-Slip Mat in the Shower or Bathtub

This is a great installation no matter your age! Non-slip mats help to protect us when getting into and out of the shower or bathtub and provide an extra cushion throughout. They are a great safety feature to install and are relatively low in cost. 

Maintain a Healthy Diet and Stay Hydrated

Individuals who might not be getting all of their nutrients or are dehydrated often feel faint or dizzy. A way to avoid these feelings especially with age is to maintain a healthy diet and to stay hydrated. Ensure you are getting the proper nutrients you need and keep an eye on your sugar levels and your blood pressure. 

Recognize any Side Effects from Medications

If you recently started a new medication and notice feelings of faintness or dizziness, reach out to your doctor and express these side effects. They can help to mitigate these side effects or change your medication so that you have a lower risk of falling.

Learn how to Fall Safely

Lastly, if you ever encounter a fall, it is important to know how to fall safely to reduce the risk of injury. Speak with your doctor or physiotherapist on tips to falling properly and safely. These most often include staying in a bent position, protecting your head, and positioning your body in a way that will lead to the least amount of injuries. Do not be afraid of falling but rather know how to fall and prevent injuries before they happen. 

What do you do to prevent falls? Share with us in the comments below!

References

Government of Canada (2014, April 10). Seniors' Falls in Canada: Second Report. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/aging-seniors/publications/publications-general-public/seniors-falls-canada-second-report.html#s1

I'm back from the beautiful East coast and the AGEWELL 2019 Annual Conference. 

If you recall, last year we won the National Impact Challenge and were invited to come back this year to participate in another conference. This year's theme was Exploring the Future of Technology, where panelists and presenters explored where technology and the aging sector are headed in the decades to come. 

As always, the conference was inspiring and motivating. It is encouraging to be surrounded by so many like-minded people who share the passion for improving quality of life for older adults and exploring how innovation can contribute to these improvements. Some takeaways from the conference include: 

Technology is for everyone

Many speakers at the conference shared research or trials involving older adults using technology. The response is overwhelming, not only can older adults use technology, but it also helps them with day-to-day tasks and enriches their lives. Older adults with cognitive, vision, and physical impairments all showed conference goers how technology improved their lives. The above photo and statistic proves that older adults are confident using technology and are excited about the benefits it can bring them. However, there is room for improvement in how we assist older adults onboarding to health and wellness platforms. The big takeaway here is that innovators should be developing technologies that keep older adults in mind.

Stigma is still rampant 

Although older adults have proven they are both interested in technology and capable of using it, stigma is still rampant. Older adults can be stigmatized by the media, family, friends, staff in care centres and even the companies creating technological products. We have experienced this stigma in our own work, and are actively working to educate communities on how to reduce stigma. Researchers and older adults both shared examples of stigmas older adults face, including the inability to participate in research, use technology, or be independent. This comic included in the conference registration packets summarizes our feelings well! 

Research + Innovation= the equation for change 

The AGEWELL conference is always a mix of researchers and innovators sharing emerging research and startup innovations. When you sit in on both types of sessions, the two almost feel like they couldn't be further apart in practice. A group of researchers using specific processes to conduct research, gaining ethics approval and submitting papers to journals to mostly be read by other researchers and academics. VS a group of innovators who are quickly implementing beta units, learning as they develop, and working directly with their target markets. Yet as I sat in on panels that involved both researchers and innovators it affirmed what I have learned working on Marlena Books. Innovators and researchers must work together to develop quality products that will improve the lives of older adults. Without innovation research is often never brought to life, and without research innovation cannot pinpoint which areas to work in. Many teams at AGEWELL are multi-disciplinary, with a strong focus on both innovation and research; very inspiring! 

I had a great time at the AGEWELL 2019 conference in beautiful Moncton and learned a lot. I'm excited to go back next year!