When Fathers Become Caregivers
On Father’s Day, families come together to celebrate multiple generations of beloved fathers in our lives. While we celebrate, we need also to reflect on how these terrible diseases have affected our dads, husbands, or spouses, either as patients or as caregivers.
Is Brain Health the Next Fitness Trend?
Most of us know that physical health can lead to brain health, but what we are only now discovering is how brain health can also drive physical health, suggesting that our brains may be ground zero for the next fitness craze. Our brains may be ground zero for the next fitness craze. The Body-Brain Connection […]
Can Wordle Boost Brain Strength?
My 12-year-old daughter, my 82-year-old father, and all of my 50-something friends are addicted to Wordle. If you don’t yet know about this all-ages word game, I’ll explain. Wordle challenges players each day to guess a five-letter word, with only six attempts to get the correct answer. The game was created by a software engineer […]
Why You Should Try Minimalism
In this article, we briefly explore the root of the minimalism movement, including recent findings about its impact on one’s mental health and wellbeing.
Celebrating Fathers Who Have Alzheimer’s
When my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, our family had the same disparaging realization with which far too many others have been met: he’s going to forget us. As his disease has progressed, however, I have also begun to think about not forgetting him. By this I mean not forgetting who he used to be, the […]
Mother’s Day Gifts and Traditions for Moms with Memory Decline
As we near Mother’s Day, let’s honor all moms, paying special attention to the 13 million women in the US who are living with Alzheimer’s disease either as a patient or a caregiver.
Recharge Your Brain in the Great Outdoors
Recent research has shown that being outdoors can have a significant positive influence on mood and cognition. And it doesn’t seem to matter what activities you take up; just being outside is often enough to elicit these improvements.
What Betty White and the Golden Girls Taught Me about Caregiving
Betty White died only a few weeks from her 100th birthday. The news devastated my now 50-something, former, college roommates and me. We lived together in Pennsylvania when the Golden Girls was a hit TV show in the late 80s.
Holidays Gatherings and Dealing with Dementia
The holiday season is considered the most wonderful time of the year. It is a cherished time to gather together and create memories. This is especially true for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or cognitive decline and their family members that care for them.
Protecting Your Brain from Dementia
The good news is that making lifestyle changes can lower your risk of dementia significantly. It’s all about good habits: diet and exercise that promote vascular health, healthy mental and social activities, and good sleep practices.