Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Personal approach to dementia caring

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Courier

BY MEG RAYNER

CARERS are being urged to take a personalised approach when dealing with dementia clients.
At a seminar for carers in Ballarat last week, Alzheimer's Australia education specialist John Price said it wimportant to build community awareness about the disease, which is on the rise.

"There will be a 400 per cent rise in the number of dementia cases by 2050," he said.

"It's very different for people, say, with heart disease who can take a tablet every day. People with dementia need carers.

"It's all about improving understanding to give them a better quality of life."

The Dementia Revisited seminar was held at the Queen Elizabeth Centre on Thursday afternoon and attracted about 20 carers to listen to Mr Price speak.

Dementia Awareness Week featured a number of events around the state.

Alzheimer's Australia chief executive officer Lynette Moore said it was important Victorians took the time to learn about this chronic health condition.

"While there is currently no cure for dementia, scientific research shows that it may be possible to reduce your risk of developing dementia or delay the onset," she said.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Compassionate Allowances(part 5)

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Social Security Online

DI 23022.030 Identifying and Receipting Quick Disability Determination (QDD) and Compassionate Allowance (CAL) Cases

20 CFR § 404.1619 Quick Disability Determination process


20 CFR § 416.1019 Quick Disability Determination process


A. Electronic identification
1. Electronic Disability Collect System (EDCS)
When transferring a case in EDCS, the Predictive Model (PM) software determines whether the case qualifies for processing as a QDD and/or CAL case. The field office (FO) receives one of the following on-screen message boxes in EDCS:

“This case has been marked as a Quick Disability Determination case. Full non-medical development required.”, or

“This case has been marked as a Compassionate Allowance case. Full non-medical development required.”, or

“This case has been marked as a Quick Disability Determination and Compassionate Allowance case. Full non-medical development required.”

The FO must select OK to close the message box to proceed with the transfer.

NOTE: Cases that are fully-paper (all claims in the case are EDCS exclusions) are not considered for QDD/CAL. At least one of the claims must be established in EDCS for the PM to consider the case for QDD and/or CAL. The official folder may be a Certified Electronic Folder (CEF) or a paper Modular Disability Folder (MDF).

If the disability determination services (DDS) identifies CAL criteria for a fully paper claim, the DDS and FO will follow normal expedited claim procedures, such as those used for TERI cases.

If a fully electronic CAL case requires conversion to the paper process, the case must be removed from CAL processing (see DI 23022.055) and select the “other” block. Type in “conversion from electronic to paper” as the reason.

2. DDS case processing systems
All QDD and CAL cases have an associated Electronic Folder Interface (EFI) download. The EFI download contains a data element that identifies the case as QDD and/or CAL. (Until each DDS legacy system receives the appropriate upgrades, only the current QDD indicator will be visible in the DDS download.)

The DDS case processing system recognizes the QDD/CAL indicator on EFI, propagates it to the DDS case processing system screens, and uses it for special processing logic.

NOTE: Until each DDS legacy system receives the appropriate upgrades, all CAL cases are identified in the download through the QDD data element. In addition to the data element, a special message is generated in the legacy system to alert the user that CAL is involved. The message notification states: “Case has been identified as a Compassionate Allowance because of the following condition(s): .” The adjudicator will need to check eView to determine if QDD is also applicable.

B. Visual identification
The EDCS Routing Form displays “QUICK DISABILITY DETERMINATION: YES” and/or “COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCE: YES” in large letters at the top of the page.

The QDD and CAL indicators display as separate header(s) on all eView screens, regardless of whether the case was screened by the PM or manually added. The CAL indicator allows the user to access the Compassionate Allowance page in order to view or manually add, remove, or reinstate a CAL action. If the screen shows “QDD: Y” and/or “CAL: Y”, the case is currently a QDD and/or CAL case. If the screen shows “QDD: N” and/or “CAL: N”, the case is not currently a QDD and/or CAL case. In some instances, the “QDD: N” and “CAL: Y” will appear which means it is designated as a CAL only case and vice versa.

The DDS case processing system displays a QDD or CAL indicator (if the system has the proper systems enhancements).

C. DDS identifies CAL after receipt of claim
While a QDD indicator cannot be manually added to a case, for CAL, the DDS, Office of Quality Performance (OQP), and Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR) have the capability to manually add cases to CAL processing. If an alleged or existing condition or illness that would allow CAL processing is identified, refer to DI 23022.055 for processing instructions.

D. Automatic EFI “Accept Jurisdiction” of QDD/CAL cases: receipt date
To ensure that QDD/CAL cases are processed expeditiously, the DDS case processing systems automate the “Accept Jurisdiction” EFI transaction (0123) for QDD/CAL cases.

The DDS case processing system Download/Receipt Queue indicates whether a claim has been marked for QDD and/or CAL processing. (If the state legacy system has not received the appropriate upgrades, QDD and CAL are identified ONLY as QDD. A special message notification is sent in the download to identify a case as CAL. The message states: “Case has been identified as a Compassionate Allowance because of the following condition(s): .” The adjudicator will need to check eView to determine if QDD is also applicable.)

The system also indicates whether an image of the signed SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration (SSA)) is stored in the Document Management Architecture (DMA). The DDS should monitor the download/receipt queue to expeditiously receipt and assign any newly transferred QDD and/or CAL claims.

The recommended 20-day time period for QDD cases starts when the DDS accepts jurisdiction of the case.

The time period for CAL cases is not limited to the 20-day processing time period; however, expedited processing procedures remain in effect for CAL cases. A case is not removed from CAL solely because evidence is not received or a favorable determination is not made within a certain time period.

The DDS accepts jurisdiction, receipts, and assigns the claim to a QDD/CAL adjudicator the same day that it posts to the Download/Receipt queue, if at all possible.

The DDS must resolve by close of business (COB) any conditions that would cause them not to receipt the claim. For example, if the claim was transferred to the wrong DDS, it should be rejected back to the FO.

NOTE: Do not automatically reject jurisdiction of cases that do not have an SSA-827 in DMA. The original document is mailed to the DDS (or destroyed, depending on local procedures) by the FO, so the FO no longer has an SSA-827 in the office to fax. Discuss any cases with a missing SSA-827 with FO management, using local procedures, before rejecting jurisdiction.

The DDS case processing system propagates the date that the DDS accepted jurisdiction of the case to the State Receipt Date (SRD) field on the NDDSS DREC mask. The SRD field cannot be modified by the DDS.

If a QDD/CAL claim is still on the Download/Receipt Queue by COB of the day it was posted to the Download/Receipt Queue (or the next business day for cases transferred on non-business days), the DDS case processing system automatically generates the “Accept Jurisdiction” EFI transaction (0123). The DDS must receipt and assign these cases expeditiously because the receipt date is the date of the system generated Accept Jurisdiction transaction.

For additional information about DDS case receipt, see DI 81020.015, Electronic Claim Receipt Process.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Compassionate Allowances(part 4)

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Social Security Online

Code of Federal Regulations

§404.1603 Basic responsibilities for us and the State.

(a) General. We will work with the State to provide and maintain an effective system for processing claims of those who apply for and who are receiving benefits under the disability program. We will provide program standards, leadership, and oversight. We do not intend to become involved in the State's ongoing management of the program except as is necessary and in accordance with these regulations. The State will comply with our regulations and other written guidelines.

(b) Our responsibilities. We will:

(1) Periodically review the regulations and other written guidelines to determine whether they insure effective and uniform administration of the disability program. To the extent feasible, we will consult with and take into consideration the experience of the States in issuing regulations and guidelines necessary to insure effective and uniform administration of the disability program;

(2) Provide training materials or in some instances conduct or specify training, see §404.1622;

(3) Provide funds to the State agency for the necessary cost of performing the disability determination function, see §404.1626;

(4) Monitor and evaluate the performance of the State agency under the established standards, see §§404.1644 and 404.1645; and

(5) Maintain liaison with the medical profession nationally and with national organizations and agencies whose interests or activities may affect the disability program.

(c) Responsibilities of the State. The State will:

(1) Provide management needed to insure that the State agency carries out the disability determination function so that disability determinations are made accurately and promptly;

(2) Provide an organizational structure, adequate facilities, qualified personnel, medical consultant services, designated quick disability determination examiners (§§404.1619 and 404.1620(c)), and a quality assurance function (§§404.1620 through 404.1624);

(3) Furnish reports and records relating to the administration of the disability program (§404.1625);

(4) Submit budgets (§404.1626);

(5) Cooperate with audits (§404.1627);

(6) Insure that all applicants for and recipients of disability benefits are treated equally and courteously;

(7) Be responsible for property used for disability program purposes (§404.1628);

(8) Take part in the research and demonstration projects (§404.1629);

(9) Coordinate with other agencies (§404.1630);

(10) Safeguard the records created by the State in performing the disability determination function (§404.1631);

(11) Comply with other provisions of the Federal law and regulations that apply to the State in performing the disability determination function;

(12) Comply with other written guidelines (§404.1633);

(13) Maintain liaison with the medical profession and organizations that may facilitate performing the disability determination function; and

(14) Assist us in other ways that we determine may promote the objectives of effective and uniform administration.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Compassionate Allowances(part 3)

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Social Security Online

DI 23022.015 Compassionate Allowance (CAL)–DDS Instructions

The CAL initiative is designed to quickly identify diseases and other medical conditions that invariably qualify under the Listing of Impairments based on minimal, but sufficient, objective medical information. If the condition does not meet these strict criteria, it will not be designated as a CAL case.

All CAL-identified conditions are entered into the Predictive Model (PM) and are selected for CAL processing based solely on the claimant’s allegations listed on the SSA-3368 (Disability Report—Adult) or SSA-3820—(Disability Report—Child).

Like Quick Disability Determinations (QDD), CAL cases will receive expedited processing within the context of the existing disability determination process.

CAL cases are similar to Terminal Illness (TERI) claims, although not all CAL cases involve terminal illness. For example, a person with a spinal cord injury could qualify as a compassionate allowance – even if he or she is expected to live for many years.

DI 23022.017 Compassionate Allowance (CAL) and Quick Disability Determination (QDD): Similarities and Differences
Process CAL cases in the same manner as QDD cases. Review QDD procedures in this subchapter before processing a CAL case
.

Similarities include:

Most CAL cases are identified by the Predictive Model (PM) upon Electronic Disability Collect System (EDCS) transfer to the disability determination services (DDS) at the initial classification, initial adjudicative level. CAL and QDD do not apply to Continuing Disability Review (CDR) classification cases.

CAL cases are processed in the DDS by adjudicators who meet the qualifications set forth in DI 23022.020.

Expedited processing applies to all CAL-identified cases.

CAL cases can be removed from the CAL process; however, the reasons for taking such action on a CAL case are very limited, as described in DI 23022.055B.

In certain circumstances, cases removed from the CAL process can be reinstated, as described in DI 23022.055C. This link (http://ssahost.ba.ssa.gov/ecal/Index.aspx ) will take you to the Office of Disability Programs (ODP) Compassionate Allowance website that provides more information on CAL and houses the Impairment Summaries.

Cases determined to be CAL could also meet the criteria for QDD and would be designated both QDD and CAL. For example, the case could meet the scoring criteria for QDD and also have an allegation of a CAL condition.

If the PM identifies a case as both QDD and CAL, the case can be removed from QDD yet maintain its CAL status, and vice versa.

Differences include:

The PM criteria for CAL are simpler than the criteria for QDD. A CAL case is identified solely when a claimant alleges having a disease or other medical condition that matches a disease or condition loaded in the PM (by name, synonym and abbreviation). No scoring or threshold criteria are necessary for CAL selection. For example, a case must have a high enough score from the PM to be considered a QDD. For CAL, all the PM needs to see is the allegation of a condition on the CAL list.

Designated employees in the DDS, the Office of Quality Performance (OQP), and the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR) can manually add a CAL indicator to a case, which is not an available function in QDD process. Similar to QDD, designated employees can remove and reinstate a case from the CAL process. (See DI 23022.055). FO employees cannot add, reinstate or remove CAL cases.

NOTE: The field office (FO) workload management information (WMI) listings do not capture these manual additions, reinstatements or removals. For CAL cases that are not already identified as QDD, the FO is automatically notified when a case has been added, removed or reinstated from the CAL process, via the EDCS action items on electronic claims. FOs regularly monitor EDCS action lists to identify any case where a CAL indicator has been set after transfer so that full non-medical development of the case can be initiated.

Unlike QDD, there are very few reasons for removing a case from CAL processing (DI 23022.055). Most significant is that, unlike QDD, a CAL case can be processed to a denial determination.

If a case is identified as CAL, continue to follow expedited QDD processing guidelines even if the DDS removes the case from QDD processing (e.g., if a case cannot be completed in the QDD timeframes or if the claimant moves, these are not reasons to remove a case from the CAL process).

There is a Compassionate Allowance page which can be accessed by selecting a hypertext link labeled [CAL] in the top right hand frame of the Electronic Folder (EF) in eView. The CAL link will display [CAL: Y] or [CAL: N.]

CAL cases can be identified at Initial, Reconsideration, Hearing and Appeals Council adjudicative levels.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Compassionate Allowances(part 2)

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Social Security Online
List of Conditions
1 Acute Leukemia
2 Adrenal Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent
3 Alexander Disease (ALX) - Neonatal and Infantile
4 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
5 Anaplastic Adrenal Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent
6 Astrocytoma - Grade III and IV
7 Bladder Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable or unresectable
8 Bone Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable or unresectable
9 Breast Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable or unresectable
10 Canavan Disease (CD)
11 Cerebro Oculo Facio Skeletal (COFS) Syndrome
12 Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) - Blast Phase
13 Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) - Adult
14 Ependymoblastoma (Child Brain Tumor)
15 Esophageal Cancer
16 Farber's Disease (FD) - Infantile
17 Friedreichs Ataxia (FRDA)
18 Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), Picks Disease -Type A - Adult
19 Gallbladder Cancer
20 Gaucher Disease (GD) - Type 2
21 Glioblastoma Multiforme (Brain Tumor)
22 Head and Neck Cancers - with distant metastasis or inoperable or uresectable
23 Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (INAD)
24 Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
25 Kidney Cancer - inoperable or unresectable
26 Krabbe Disease (KD) - Infantile
27 Large Intestine Cancer - with distant metastasis or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent
28 Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome (LNS)
29 Liver Cancer
30 Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL)
31 Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) - Late Infantile
32 Niemann-Pick Disease (NPD) - Type A
33 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - with metastases to or beyond the hilar nodes or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent
34 Ornithine Transcarbamylase (OTC) Deficiency
35 Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) - Type II
36 Ovarian Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable or unresectable
37 Pancreatic Cancer
38 Peritoneal Mesothelioma
39 Pleural Mesothelioma
40 Pompe Disease - Infantile
41 Rett (RTT) Syndrome
42 Salivary Tumors
43 Sandhoff Disease
44 Small Cell Cancer (of the Large Intestine, Ovary, Prostate, or Uterus)
45 Small Cell Lung Cancer
46 Small Intestine Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent
47 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) - Types 0 And 1
48 Stomach Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent
49 Thyroid Cancer
50 Ureter Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Compassionate Allowances

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Social Security Online

Social Security has an obligation to provide benefits quickly to applicants whose medical conditions are so serious that their conditions obviously meet disability standards.
Compassionate allowances are a way of quickly identifying diseases and other medical conditions that invariably qualify under the Listing of Impairments based on minimal objective medical information. Compassionate allowances allow Social Security to quickly target the most obviously disabled individuals for allowances based on objective medical information that we can obtain quickly.

Commissioner Astrue has held four Compassionate Allowance public outreach hearings. The hearings were on rare diseases, cancers, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke, and early-onset Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The Commissioner will hold the fifth public outreach hearing on schizophrenia in November 2009. The hearing will take place in San Francisco, California.

The initial list of Compassionate Allowance conditions was developed as a result of information received at public outreach hearings, public comment on an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, comments received from the Social Security and Disability Determination Service communities, and the counsel of medical and scientific experts. Also, we considered which conditions are most likely to meet our current definition of disability.

A modest 50 conditions were selected for the initiative's rollout. The list which follows will expand over time.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Paying for Alzheimer's Care

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Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Brian Willie

Free gift for you

Because you have been interested in paying for Alzheimer's care, here is a free gift for you.

As a caregiver you need inspiration so here is free inspirational wallpaper

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Caring for Mom or Dad from a distance

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Sharon Brothers MSW

Long Distance Caregiving: Advice for the 'Sandwich Generation'

Caregivers of America

Today’s struggling economy and the population’s increasing life expectancy have placed huge demands on caregivers of the elderly. The primary demographic for senior caregiving is the so-called “sandwich generation” – the adult children of seniors who are, in many cases, retirees themselves. The sandwich generation has been tasked not only with caring for their nuclear families but also with taking responsibility for their aging parents. Most feel stretched thin at best and often left wondering how they can alleviate the growing burden of caring for their parents.

Today’s children, too, are often unable to provide the kind of round-the-clock attention they would like to give their aging parents. Families have become increasingly dispersed. Gone are the days when children live in the city or town or even the state which they were born.

Sometimes, children are forced into the heartbreaking position of having to send their parents to a nursing home or a similar community-based health care facility when they require skilled medical care on a daily basis. And some seniors who are still capable of living moderately independent lives are sometimes thrust into uncomfortable and undignified position of having all of their freedoms stripped away simply because no one is available to assist them with simple chores and personal care, or to monitor their daily intake of medications. In these cases, this course of action may be unnecessary by taking some early preventive actions.

So, if you live far away from your loved ones who need some assistance but don’t require skilled medical care, how do you handle caregiving in a long-distance relationship? The following plan will allow you to create a working guide to making assessments, developing care plans and formalizing them into an agreement that will help ease the complication factors of long-distance caregiving.

STEP 1: ASSESSMENT
The first step to conduct is your own assessment in a quiet unobtrusive manner. This can be done via telephone. But it is important to involve those who are physically present with your loved one, such as a friend, church member or someone who regularly sees your loved one and can help you understand his or her needs.
Open the lines of communication.
Ask without being patronizing.
Pay attention and listen.
Poll others.

When you have a concern, it may be tempting to rush to intercede. But it’s better to avoid taking over. Try to come up with a plan together. That way, your loved one will feel as though he or she is making decisions with your help.

STEP 2: DEVELOP A CARE PLAN
The end goal of a care plan is to permit your loved one to age successfully in the home – meaning, there needs to be a plan to address the individual needs of the aging family member. Try to assure that the solutions are really needed, not a struggle for agreement or acquiescence. List the needs for support and additional care that you believe are needed and that others have observed. These will generally fall into the following areas:
Housekeeping – Note what seems to be slipping around the house and move this to the top of the list.
Social and safety needs – transportation, companionship and daily telephone checks. Ask what makes your loved one happy socially.
Nutrition – meal planning, cooking, and meal delivery. Have your loved one make a list of favorite meals. Involvement in the process will go a long way toward making your loved one more receptive.
Health care – nursing, social work, physical and rehabilitative therapy, and medication monitoring. If there are pre-existing conditions, arrange for help to come in or make it as simple as taking a daily stroll.
Personal care – assistance with personal hygiene, medical equipment, dressing, bathing and exercise.

Once you have identified the specific care needs, decide who can devote necessary time and attention to provide support – whether paid help or a family member or members. One of the most important decisions associated with developing a long-distance care plan is considering who will be able to handle the responsibility. Get specific commitments, which need to include, as appropriate, a statement of who, what, when, where, and how.

To relieve some stress, try to spread out the responsibilities. This is especially important when coordinating long-distance caregiving. Then make a list of specific help needed for each task. Try to plan a schedule so tasks are fairly evenly distributed over the week.

In some cases, you may want to consider seeking other forms of support, such as nutrition or preventive health services, and caregiver support services. Keep in mind that many outside services are funded in part through the Older Americans Act and administered by the U.S. Administration on Aging.

STEP 3: CREATE A CAREGIVER AGREEMENT
Setting up a formal caregiver agreement is vital for the protection of all parties involved and is even more important in long-distance caregiving arrangements. Agreements need to be extensively documented and must stand up as arm’s length contracts. Family members involved in the process need to be sensitive to how arrangement might affect relationships among family members. Here are some tips on setting up these necessary agreements:
· Carefully define care needs. At this point in the process, an assessment has already taken place. Take this assessment and clearly outline the specific duties and responsibilities the caregiver will be required to provide. It immediately defines the caregiver role and helps families avoid communication problems later. Keep in mind that agreements need to anticipate future changes, depending on health and environment of your loved one.
· Put the plan in writing. The care plan is the set of instructions for the caregiver to follow when assisting your loved one with the activities of daily living. It includes instructions on personal care, exercise, meal preparation and household activities that you created in Step 2. Putting the instructions in writing should alleviate any questions and help you manage the process from a distance.
· Make a financial plan. Conduct a financial assessment based on current and future resources. Properly developed caregiving agreements enable compensation payments that do not adversely affect Medicaid eligibility. The payments can also reduce the assets subject to estate taxation of the person receiving the care.
· Put the contract in writing. Whether it involves family members, a friend or hired helper, the contract must be in writing. Include a medical report with specific medical services needed from a doctor. To protect everyone involved, the family should use an attorney to help with the agreement.

Remember: The care plan is an ever-changing document. You will need to evaluate and modify the plan, based on feedback from your loved one, your own assessment or a professional caregiver’s observations. It is especially important in a long-distance caregiving situation to check in frequently with all parties involved and adjust the agreement, based on changing needs.

While the aging loved one in your life is likely to prefer the idea of staying in his or her own home, as a long-distance caregiver, there are many considerations and worries that go along with this decision. Use the tips provided to get started and know that long-distance caregiving can be a successful option for many with the right planning, communication and cooperation

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Celebrate World Alzheimer's Day

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Healthnews-stat.com



Author Susan Berg says "It is everyone’s duty to embrace this day because there is no time to lose when fighting the battle of preventing this terrible disease." Here are some simple things you can do

What do you know about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias?

How can you decrease your chances of getting these disease?

How can you help someone with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia?

This year’s theme is 'Diagnosing Dementia: See It Sooner'
Yes, there is an urgency for all to learn about these diseases and do what they can to prevent them in themselves. Also legislators need to contacted so more funds can be allocated for research. World Alzheimer’s day, on Sept 21, is the perfect time to do this.

Approximately 5.3 million people in the United States already have Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. The number will continue to grow as the baby boomers reach the age of retirement.

What can you do right now to lessen your chances of getting these diseases?

1. Stop smoking! There is nothing positive about smoking. Studies have shown that smoking not only raises your chances of developing dementia, but it also increases your chances of getting other diseases.

2. Eat a healthy diet. Research suggests that the Mediterranean diet staves off the onset of dementia

3. Keep mentally active. Again studies have shown this, to be a way to delay the onset of dementia.

4. Keep physically active. Research indicates that moderate exercise at least a half an hour three times a week is another way to keep dementia from affecting you.

How can you help others?

Donate to the Alzheimer’s Association. Give your time and/ or money. Help with special events. Organize fund raisers.

Susan Berg has written a book called, Adorable Photographs of Our Baby, for those with dementia, their caregivers, and interested professionals.
She is donating money to the Alzheimer’s Association for each book she sells. She is passionate about educating others on these diseases. Visit her blog at http://dementiaviews.blogspot.com.

You or someone you know could develop symptoms tomorrow. The cost of caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia is expensive monetarily, physically, emotionally, and psychologically.

So please acknowledge World Alzheimer’s Day, this Monday, September 21st

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Four ways to celebrate the High Holidays with those who have dementia

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities



Healthnews-stat.com

5770 marks the beginning of another year. 5.3 million Americans have dementia. A good number of them are Jewish. What can you do to make someone with dementia feel good this Rosh Hashanah?

How celebrating this holy day helps uplift their spirit and yours

Here are some suggestions

Pray with them.

Most folks with dementia have strong ties to their religion. Even those with advanced dementia may spontaneously recite portions of a prayer service that was part of their past.
The problem may be to find a service that is appropriate. The traditional service is long and crowded.
Here are a few suggestions
*Go at the beginning or end of the service. That is when the least amount of congregants is in attendance.
*Contact some assisted living or nursing homes in the area. Many of them have short simple services highlighting the important prayers. This is a win, win situation. You can see what a place is like, and most often, activity directors love having visitors attend group activities. It makes all involved feel good. If this is not possible, have a short service at home. If you explain the situation to the Rabbi, he or she will let you borrow or buy a prayer book. He may even drop by for a visit. Alternatively, you can find some prayers online. Make sure to include some songs in your service or just sing the songs throughout the holiday. A good song might be: Shalom Aleichem

Carry on a family tradition

All families have something special they do during the high holidays. Of course, most families go to a synagogue. What about after that? Maybe you went to Aunt Betty’s. Aunt Betty may no longer be around, but you can recreate the atmosphere that was there. Invite one or two understanding friends to help you with this. The memories of visiting Aunt Betty will be there

Related to this is talking about past experiences on Rosh Hashanah or other holidays.

Discuss what happened at Aunt Betty’s. Regale a story about a funny experience that took place at Aunt Betty’s.
Do not ask: Do you remember?, but rather, just tell the story and let your loved one with dementia add comments. Talk about family members both past and present. You might say: "When Uncle Harry shook the table, he made us all laugh". Tell some jokes and laugh some more. Laughter is the best medicine

Eat a traditional meal or foods together

This activity can wake up the taste buds of a dementia person. Before the holiday, discuss the recipes. Talk about different ingredients you need. Prepare a simple recipe together. Plan the meal. Ask: What should we eat first?etc.
Have him or her help set the table or fold the napkins.
You can talk about favorite family foods. Then make sure you have some of these favorites during the actual meal.

No matter what you do the goal is to make your loved one with dementia, feel good. Do not be a stickler for the rules. Reward good tries. If you feel a need to go to a traditional service, hire someone or have a friend go with you. If the service is too much for the dementia person, the friend can take him for a walk or take him home. Often congregants feel a need to take a break from the service whether they have dementia or not.

With some planning, this Rosh Hashanah, 5770, can be a good one for you and your loved one with dementia

Alzheimer's ideas
Alzheimer's ideas page 5

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Smart Medication Management Can Promote Compassionate Caregiving

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

Sharon Brothers MSW

Are you a family caregiver?

View a FREE training module, Becoming a Caregiver

invited Katie Huffstetler from the company Senior Living Communities to share an innovation her company is implementing to help with the challenge of medication management. Here's her guest article:

It's hard to move out of a family home into an assisted living community. If that community feels like home, however, that move can be just a little easier.

The company I work for recently announced a new initiative designed to reduce drug error rates and enhance residents' quality of life by taking the med-cart out of medication management. In our communities, assisted-living residents will enjoy an in-suite, secure cabinet that houses their pre-packaged medication. Each pouch has a bar-code that nurses will scan into a community-wide computer system, recording when the medication is given and ensuring accurate dosage practices. With caregivers inputting information electronically, transcription errors are virtually eliminated.

For caregivers that means one thing ... peace of mind. The added bonus of a decrease in institutional scheduling means residents can dictate when they would like to take their medication, just as they would if they were living independently. Although they will continue to take their medications as prescribed by their physician, residents will not be on a rigid, operational timeframe. Morning medication can be taken before or after their first cup of coffee, according to their individual preferences.

Did you know recent statistics estimate more than 25 percent of assisted living residents enter facilities as a result of poor medication management?

New technology gives us a tool to help people avoid this need, by better managing their medication at home. In our independent living retirement communities we've partnered with Concept Medical Technologies to provide MedAssure to the residents living there. MedAssure is a counter-top computer capable of storing and dispensing pouch-packaged medication at a scheduled time. Residents or caregivers program alerts into MedAssure and the computer notifies its user when it is time to take their medication. The machine continues to prompt users to take their medication until the correct pouch is removed.

MedAssure is also capable of sending text or e-mail messages to residents, family members or caregivers if they prefer a text reminder instead of an audible alarm. The computer gives caregivers a sense of safety without compromising Mom and Dad's independence or their health.

These improvements are broad in scope, but it's the little successes that mean the most when you're a caregiver. The industry as a whole faces huge challenges when it comes to implementing operational changes that make residents feel at-home in their surroundings, but if we can agree to think like caregivers, we'll understand that it's not so much about efficiency or productivity as it is about putting a smile on the face of someone we love. For more information about Senior Living Communities, visit our Web site at www.senior-living-communities.com.

Monday, September 14, 2009

How can enrollment in a hospice program help in late stage Alzheimer's?

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities

American Hospice Foundation

Unfortunately, patients with end-stage Alzheimer’s disease often receive burdensome medical interventions of questionable benefit and suffer from inadequately controlled symptoms. One study showed that, although end-stage Alzheimer’s patients have four to five times the mortality rate after pneumonia or hip fracture of those without dementia, they receive the same amount of painful procedures, including daily needle sticks for blood work, placement of intravenous catheters, and painful injections of medicines. In this same study, Alzheimer’s patients were more likely to undergo placement of catheters into the bladder and placement of feeding tubes through the nose or surgically through the abdomen than patients who were not demented. In spite of the fact that tube feeding has not been shown to prevent aspiration (contents of mouth or stomach go into the lung), prolong survival, reduce infections, improve functioning, or increase patient comfort, persons with advanced Alzheimer’s disease undergo placement of feeding tubes at alarming rates. Tube-fed patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementing illnesses typically die within a year, have increased lung infections, and show increased agitation requiring more use of physical restraints and sedation, which in turn results in more instances of painful skin breakdown.

Hospice and palliative care can help address these issues for patients and their families.

Hospice care typically addresses directly what studies have shown patients with serious illnesses want (Singer et al, JAMA 1999; 281(2), 163-168):

Pain and symptom control
Avoid inappropriate prolongation of the dying process
Achieve a sense of control
Relieve burdens on family
Strengthen relationships with loved ones
Hospice care also addresses what family members and caregivers want (Tolle et al, Oregon Report Card 1999; www.ohsu.edu/ethics):

Loved one’s wishes honored
Inclusion in decision processes
Support/assistance at home
Practical help (transportation, medicines, equipment)
Personal care needs (bathing, feeding, toileting)
Honest information
24/7 access
To be listened to
Privacy
To be remembered and contacted after the death
Hospices stress excellent management of pain and other distressing symptoms; use an interdisciplinary care team comprised of a physician, nurse, social worker, nurse’s aide, chaplain, and volunteer, to comprehensively address all sources of suffering; and develop an individualized care plan focused on the needs of the patient and family rather than on the disease.

When should I call hospice for my loved one with Alzheimer’s disease?

When your loved one can no longer care for him or herself and has lost the ability to walk independently, especially if you are feeling stressed from caregiving, ask hospice to evaluate your loved one for admission. Particularly when your loved one has begun having choking episodes, is losing weight, or has had fever and infections, it is likely time to ask hospice for help.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Celebrating Grandparents Day and Dementia

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Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia brain boosting activities



Healthnews-stat.com

Folks with dementia love children, especially babies. Take advantage of Grandparent’s day to allow these two groups of people to connect. Kids make most people smile especially those with dementia

Over 5.3 million Americans have dementia. Most of them are grandparents. Folks with dementia love children, especially babies. Take advantage of Grandparent’s day to allow these two groups of people to connect. Kids make most people smile especially those with dementia

Even though Grandparent’s day is Sept 13, extend it to Grandparent’s week if you are dealing with someone who has dementia. If too many grand kids visit at once, the excitement and confusion might be too much for a dementia person. Have the grandchildren visit one or two at a time. That way quality time is exchanged and the level of confusion is kept at a minimum.

Keep visits short. Discuss dementia with the children before the visit. There are many good books to assist you in helping a child to understand dementia. One such book is The Magic Tape Recorder by Joyce Simard. This is a thoughtful and well written book that explains the effects of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias to children in a light and entertaining way. If the youngsters are familiar with the disease, the time spent together will be more meaningful for all.

What should you do during the visit?
There are many activities that both the dementia person and children enjoy.
*Look at family pictures and recall the stories that go with them. Of course, you would have told the child that he may hear the same story several times. If you do not have old family photos or have not organized them yet, use this book, Adorable Photographs of Our Baby-Meaningful, Mind Stimulating Activities and More for the Memory Challenged, their Loved Ones and Involved Professionals, by Susan Berg. It not only has cute conversation stimulating baby pictures, but activity ideas related to the photos are suggested.
*Sing familiar songs together. Patriotic songs are ideal because most people, young and old, know them. Some good songs are: America, America the Beautiful, and God Bless America
*Watch a portion of a classic musical movie. Do not try to watch too long because the dementia person or child may lose interest. Movie suggestions are: any Shirley Temple movie, Judy Garland movies including, The Wizard of Oz, and The Sound of Music.
*Have a snack or meal together. Everyone loves ice cream.
*Make an old family favorite recipe together. Then eat it
*Go for a ride. Because gasoline prices are high and attention spans are short, a short trip is best.

So this Grandparents day, September 13, include a loved one with dementia and a grandchild in a lovely experience for both.

alzheimers ideas

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Formula for Caregiver Success: The 51% Rule

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Expert Click



Caregiving Without Regrets: 3 Steps to Avoid Burnout and Manage Disappointment, Guilt, and Anger

Most people caring for loved ones—family caregivers—would love to know where to buy that magic caregiver cape," says Vicki Rackner, former surgeon and founder of The Caregiver Club. "They would always do and say the perfect things. I believe that if caregivers are the kinds of people they want to be 51% of the time, love will take them to 100%"

Rackner suggests that if caregivers hit 51% every day, they're doing a good job. Or at least good enough!

Vicki Rackner MD is a former surgeon and founder of The Caregiver Club. She works with people caring for aging parents who want to manage stress, minimize guilt and avoid burnout…even when it's impossibly overwhelming. Sign up for her free teleseminar, "How to respond to a parent in pain" on the web site www.thecaregiverclub.com.

Monday, September 7, 2009

How You Can Get The Most Popular Dementia Caregiver Training Programs for Just $1...

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Brian Willie

You only have until noon today to sign up

You're about to get all this for just one measly little buck...

"Ultimate Alzheimer's Care Rescue Program Module 1-Estate and Life Planning" Retail $197 INCLUDED

"Audio Interview: "Secrets of Finding The Top Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities" Retail $49 INCLUDED

"My Coping Caregiver Video Series" Retail $49 INCLUDED

"Powerful Ways To Sharpen Your Memory" Retail $27 INCLUDED

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Total Value $322

ALL Four Trainings (INSTANT ACCESS!)

Just $1


Dementia Caregiver Training Program

Dear Alzheimer's Family Member,

As an extra, unadvertised bonus for watching my video "The Difference Between Medicare and Medicaid" this week, I want to give you INSTANT ACCESS to four of my most popular training programs that will teach you:

Estate and Life Planning: Critical Steps To Take Now. This over 1 hour audio is the first of 6 modules in my hugely popular (and sold out) "Ultimate Alzheimer's Care Rescue Program" training series. You get the entire audio recording plus full written transcripts. You'll learn everything you need to know now including how to avoid expensive guardianships when your loved one loses capacity PLUS 3 critical documents everyone must have and MUCH more! I'll give you dozens of things you can put to use today, but this one tip on guardianships alone could save you $5,000-10,000 in attorney fees.

One of my most popular audio interviews with a top nursing home and assisted living expert, Pat Dismukes "Secrets of Finding The Top Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities." Includes full written transcripts of this nearly 60 minute interview with Pat!

My "Coping Caregiver Video Series" Get instant access to 3 "Coping Caregiver" videos. You'll learn "How to Cope With Elderly Parents Moving In," plus "The Job Description of the Hospice Worker" and "Coping With Negative Emotions As Caregivers."


My crticial series "Powerful Ways To Sharpen Your Memory." You'll learn how to dramatically increase your memory. This is one of the keys to warding off Alzheimer's.
These training programs are jam-packed with content, and best of all it's the type of information that you can apply in just a short time and start seeing real results!

Because as you'll soon see, when you go through one of my training programs you enter...

"The No Theory Zone"

What do I mean by "The No Theory Zone"?

Well it's simple. A lot of training programs talk about stuff that used to work (or worse) should work (but maybe doesn't).

My tips, tricks and trainings however, are backed up by real-world experience from my practice and my actual clients.

When I tell you for instance exactly why you should avoid adding a loved one as a joint owner on a bank account or which 3 documents can protect you for years to come, it's not theory, it's because I've used them countless times and they WORK!



And when I tell you why gifting (giving money or property away) can destroy your chances of ever receiving government benefits you may so badly need (and what you can do about it) it's because I've encountered it over and over and IT WORKS!


And when I tell you all about why use of living trusts for Alzheimer's families are usually totally inappropriate and useless and what to do instead it's because IT WORKS!


And when I tell you about one little step you can take today to start planning to find a top nursing home or assisted living facility (even on a budget), it's because IT WORKS!
So in other words, when I tell you something works...IT WORKS...and it can save you countless hours of frustration, spinning your wheels, and save you ALOT of heartache and money!

Here's a closer look at the money and time saving training courses you're about to receive:

Course Descriptions:

Saturday, September 5, 2009

In-home caregivers

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia articles and activities,

AZ Central

In-home caregivers

Roles and duties of non-medical home health workers:

What services do they provide?

Non-medical assistance. Responsibilities include basic tasks such as running errands, medication reminders, grocery shopping, light housekeeping and companionship, plus personal care such as dressing, bathing and grooming.

Are there any services they cannot provide?

Private-duty caregivers are not allowed to perform any medical tasks, including administering medication.

How often do they come?

As little or as much as the client wants. Some workers are in a home as little as four or eight hours a week; others provide round-the-clock care.

How much does it cost?

The average in Arizona ranges from $19 to $38 per hour, depending on the level of service and whether the company is Medicare/Medicaid certified.

Does insurance cover care?

It depends. Some people are covered under their long-term care policies. Others pay out of pocket. Seniors who meet certain income requirements and need a nursing-home level of care may qualify for coverage under the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS), which is the state's Medicaid program.

Sources: Genworth Financial, Republic research


Reliable caregiving

If you are interested in hiring an in-home caregiver, here are some questions to ask:


• How long has your agency been in business?


• Do you perform criminal background checks, drug screening and reference checks on your caregivers?


• What other training does my caregiver have? Does he or she know CPR or how to perform first aid?


• How do you match caregivers with prospective clients and families?


• How are emergencies handled after normal business hours?


• How do you monitor your caregivers' services? Does your agency make regular visits to a client's home?


• Does the agency manage all payroll issues? Do you adhere to state and federal guidelines for employment practices, including withholding taxes, providing workers' compensation and other benefits?


• Are your caregivers bonded and insured?


Other tips:


• Check......Read all the in-home caregiver tips

Friday, September 4, 2009

5 ways to ease caregiver stress

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia articles and activities,

AZ Central

Leslie Wright

Psychology Professor David Coon advises caregivers, or anyone under chronic stress, to work to control their reactions to aggravating situations. Here are five of the key tips he gives caregivers to keep it together while tending to someone with dementia or Alzheimer's disease:

Take the signal breath

1 Take the "signal breath." Choose a relaxing word, such as "peace" or "calm." Take four deep breaths and mouth the word when you exhale. Breathing well reduces blood pressure. Coon uses this technique while driving or doing any stressful task. Manage behavior

2 Try to find the reason for a specific behavior. Triggers, such as a noise, a time of day, or the presence of another person, can set off a behavior, such as agitation. If you can find the trigger, you can distract or calm the patient. If you can't, try to control your reaction to the behavior.

Keep a log of incidents and look for patterns.Stop negative thinking

3 Be aware of your negative thought patterns. Coon calls this "hamster-head." Negative thinking goes around and around to no purpose, like a hamster wheel in your head. Challenge yourself when you start thinking in catastrophic terms about your situation. Be aware of your feelings.Communicate with others

4 Asking for help is difficult, but not impossible. Give neighbors tasks if they ask. Contact family members and negotiate for time if they resist helping. Call service agencies that can help.

Assert yourself. Avoid your own isolation. Keep pleasure in your life

5 Develop a list of pleasant events that will give you a lift. Start small and keep it simple: spend time looking at family photos, walking in the park, listening to music. Find something you can do every day to keep joy in your life and do it.....Read more about 5 ways to ease caregiver stress

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Celebrating life at the end

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia articles and activities,

Sharon Brothers MSW

Phones ringing at 1:00 in the morning never bring good news.

This weekend, our family experienced that 1 am phone call bringing news of the death of my husband's mother. It wasn't unexpected; in fact, it was a blessed relief for the entire family who had watched her growing increasingly weak and less responsive day by day over the past several weeks.

Early on, she would grasp our hands and say, "You know that I don't want to linger. I just want to go quickly." Initially we'd encourage her to hang on and fight, but, as time passed, it was clear that lingering wasn't adding to the quality of her life. We begin to spend the time we could with her laughing whenever possible, talking about her many grandchildren and their adventures, and sharing life with her. Sometimes we'd simply sit and hold hands with her while we watched the news or one of her favorite shows together.

Until the last day, she'd usually grasp our hand with both of hers and hold on tight. Even when she couldn't talk, she'd look in our eyes and communicate that she valued the time we spent with her.

On the last day, she no longer had the spark of life in her eyes, even though she continued to breath. She couldn't speak; perhaps she could hear us and feel our touch, but we couldn't see a sign of her spirit left in her body. We took our turns crying with her and each other; it was clear that we had lost her.

So when the phone call came, it was a blessed relief to know it was finally over for her physical body, too.

We were lucky to have all our children home this weekend. We had a chance to talk a bit about how we handle the death of loved ones, both personally and as a society. I instructed my eldest daughter to make sure I was cremated and put in a lime-green urn (she and I have a running joke about lime green being my favorite color), but mostly we talked about how right it is to mourn while at the same time recognizing that death is a part of each of our life journey.

My mother in law lived a good long life, just two weeks shy of her 91st birthday. This week as we gather with the large, close, extended family she left behind we will cry a little and laugh a lot as we remember - and celebrate - her life

View a FREE training module, Becoming a Caregiver

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Senile Dementia Treatment

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia articles and activities,

eHow

Dementia is a condition with many symptoms having to do with memory, thinking, learning, and perceiving. Many things cause dementia. Some conditions are reversible and are alleviated by treating the underlying cause. Some types of dementia are irreversible. The most common type of this dementia is Alzheimer's disease. The second most common type is vascular or multi-infarct dementia. Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal lobe dementia are also fairly common irreversible dementias. At the present time, treating the symptoms is the only option. Often, people with dementia exhibit problem behavior. Managing this is necessary because these people can be a danger to themselves or others. Without treating these symptoms, geriatric psychiatric facilities would be overloaded.
Many scientists, from all over the world, research new treatments for dementia. Treating dementia has come a long way, but there is still a long way to go before finding a cure.

Underlying Conditions
There are some conditions causing dementia that are treatable. These ailments include head injuries, chronic drug abuse, removable tumors, normal-pressure hydrocephalus, vitamin B12 and other vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition, hypothyroidism, and hypoglycemia. Treating these conditions will totally or at least partially cure the underlying dementia. The treatments vary depending on the root cause. Some treatments are as simple as eating a healthy diet. Having a complete physical exam by a knowledgeable doctor is the first step in treating senile dementia.
Some persons with dementia will never be the same because the dementia affecting them causes permanent changes in their brain.

Standard Treatment
Managing the symptoms of irreversible dementia is the standard treatment because there is no way of curing these dementias.
At this time, only three drugs are approved for treating the symptoms. They are donepezil (Aricept®), galantamine (Reminyl®), and rivastigmine (Exelon®). Recently there has been some success with patients using the Exelon patch.
Abnormal proteins and stiff arteries in the brain of those with dementia cause cell death. These drugs work in a similar fashion. They all prevent an enzyme known as acetylcholinesterase from breaking down acetylcholine in the brain. Increased levels of acetylcholine allow for more communication between the remaining nerve cells. Acetylcholine is a chemical messenger. The use of these drugs may temporarily improve or stabilize the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
Some sufferers cannot tolerate the side effects of these drugs.

Sleep Changes
Those with dementia sleep differently. As we age, changes in sleep patterns occur. These, coupled with a decrease in the circadian cycle length and lack of awareness of the appropriate time to sleep, in those with dementia can affect nighttime sleep.
Managing the behavior of persons with dementia may help. Here are things that may work: restrict caffeine, stimulant medications, and daytime naps; exercise early in the day; keep their room cool and quiet during the night; and limit evening fluid intake.
If none of these suggestions work, certain sleep medications such as chloral hydrate, trazodone, or thioridazine may help.

Behavioral Symptoms
People with dementia may exhibit problem behavior for a number of reasons. Often these behaviors have psychotic features, including hallucinations and delusions. Treat these symptoms with behavior management, if possible.
Try to identify the trigger to the problem behavior. Sensing the start of a problem behavior is key because you are much more likely to stop it in the early phases. Avoid arguing, as the person with dementia will not likely believe what you are saying. Instead, refocus and redirect their attention.
If this does not work, then medication is the next option. Using drugs for convulsions, depression, and mood stabilization may be a good option.

Cognitive Retraining
A relatively new treatment for dementia is......read all of Senile Dementia Treatment