Concord Place Memory Care resident and artist, Fairy Stone, and her artist daughter Sheryl Jackson have shared a life long love of art.

The talented duo continue to team up, teaching art classes every Monday at Concord Place Memory Care in Knoxville, Tennessee.

“My mother and I have always worked together,” Sheryl Jackson told the Farragut Press, who covered the story. “Back in the day, when I was in the business, my mother did my framing for me. I had a fully equipped studio with a frame shop and everything, and my mother’s very, very talented.

You can read more about this talented mother/daughter team at Farragut Press.

A winter wonderland in Southern California? Residents and staff of Vineyard Place Memory Care in Murrieta, California made it happen (with a little help from a snow machine), inviting local homeschoolers from Our Lady of Fatima to come and play in the snow! Snowball fights, snowman building, and lots of laughter entertained the residents as they watched the children enjoy a taste of winter under the California sun.

The event was covered by the Press Enterprise. You can read the full article here.

In celebration of Rubber Ducky Day, Chisholm Place Memory Care residents surprised local Target shoppers by handing out rubber duck tub toys, each inscribed with a positive handwritten message. The gifts put instant smiles on the faces of grateful shoppers.  

“Our residents were inspired by Rubber Ducky Day and wanted to put a smile on people’s faces,” said Jordyn Ridenour, life engagement director for Chisholm Place. “This project gave our residents a renewed sense of purpose. They were thrilled to surprise the shoppers with creative and uplifting messages.”

The event was covered by McKnight's Senior Living. You can read the full story here.

As we grow older, we begin to pay more attention to the impact of aging on our overall health. As issues crop up, more doctor visits are scheduled and we become increasingly aware of our growing list of limitations and restrictions.

This concern over health also extends to our mental acuity and issues involving memory. We may become a bit more forgetful and less adept at tackling more complex issues. For some older adults this is just a normal part of aging. For others it may be mild cognitive impairment (MCI) , a developing condition which can lead to dementia. Or, it may be the actual onset of dementia.

Regardless of whether an individual has a normal, aging brain or has been diagnosed with dementia, paying attention to brain health is key to optimizing cognition and preserving memory for as long as possible. There are things we can all do, regardless of age or condition, to improve our overall brain health.

The Mayo Clinic, Alzheimer’s Association and other organizations have published tips for improving brain health and memory. Here are some to consider as you strive to make the most of your own brain power, as well as that of your loved one with dementia:

1. Eat healthy. Much has been written about the impact of diet on brain health and memory. This is especially important for individuals with dementia. Foods that are low in saturated fat, but high in omega-3 fatty acids can boost brain efficiency. Consider adopting the Mediterranean Diet, which has many foods to choose from and is well-balanced and nutritious.
2. Get exercise. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that you get a minimum of 150 minutes per week of aerobic exercise. This might include a short workout each day or taking a brisk walk. Movement helps stimulate blood flow to the brain.
3. Stimulate your brain. There are many ways to keep your brain active. Chess, checkers, puzzles, games, and reading are a few of them. Reading a book and joining a book club stimulates the brain as well as engagement with others. Or visit a local museum. Observing the exhibits will keep the brain more alert and connected to the environment.  
4. Get a good night’s sleep. Lack of sleep is known to impact memory and overall cognition. Adults require at least seven hours of sleep each night, preferably eight or nine. Make sure your environment is conducive to sleep.
5. Socialize. The importance of socialization cannot be overestimated. This is especially true for individuals with dementia. Going out to lunch, inviting friends and family in for regular visits are excellent ways to stay connected and engaged. Consistency is key.

It is also important to make sure both you and your loved one are keeping up with visits to the doctor and that you are addressing any medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes and any other chronic issues that can complicate daily health regimens.

Finally, don’t neglect your own health as a caregiver. Caring for a loved one with dementia is challenging and requires a great deal of time and attention. You need to keep your brain and body healthy to meet those challenges.

We encourage you to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities with your questions and concerns about the health of your loved one and yourself. We will be happy to help and to connect you with resources.

Residents and staff of Churchill Place Memory Care in Glen Ellyn, Illinois recently expressed their appreciation for the local police department. That appreciation came in the form of what they lovingly call "survival kits", bags filled with special treats.

The visit was in honor of Law Enforcement Day, but the residents and staff wanted to show their appreciation for all the hard work these first responders do every day of the year.

The visit was covered by the Chicago Daily Herald. You can read the full story here.

Seasonal weather changes impact all of us. A blazing hot summer day evokes a very different physical and emotional response than a cold winter’s day. Yet, what many families aren’t aware of is that these same seasonal changes that we navigate through without much difficulty can bring tremendous anxiety to an individual with dementia. There is a term for the impact of seasonal changes on some individuals. It’s called SAD (Seasonal Affect Disorder).

SAD is known to have an even greater impact during winter. And those darker skies and colder days during the winter can be particularly challenging on individuals with dementia.

Long, dark, winter days spent indoors can impact health.

Being cooped up indoors for extended periods of time isn’t healthy for anyone. When the weather is cold and the skies are grey, it can become isolating for an individual with dementia. The lack of activities enjoyed in warmer weather can impact physical fitness. Individuals may nap more during the day which can lead to more restlessness at bedtime. All of these changes can become major issues for a person already struggling with memory and other behavior changes.

Research also point to the negative impact of winter on cognition. One study conducted with over 3,000 dementia participants in the U.S., Canada and France, found that cognition was significantly improved during summer and fall than during winter and spring. That means that winter months can have a negative impact on memory and behavior of individuals with dementia.

If left unaddressed, prolonged winter blues can lead to depression.

In addition to impacting cognition, the culmination of feeling isolated and unmotivated to engage in normal activities can lead an individual with dementia into a state of depression. This can become a serious issue if left unattended to.

Dealing effectively with winter blues begins by acknowledging that they exist. The next step is to realize that there are things you can do to help mitigate the impact of dark winter months on your loved one’s physical, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing.

Here are a few tips to help your loved one get through these months and help improve your own health and outlook as well:

• Get exercise. There are many exercises that can be done indoors to help your loved one retain muscle tone and balance. For example, engaging in a few simple dance moves is a fun way to get exercise. Put on some music and move!
• Eat healthy. This is especially important as your loved one may not meet their normal levels of activity. Excessive carbohydrate intake can put on weight.
• Optimize indoor lighting. Open up the curtains to let some light in the room. Even on a gloomy day, being able to see outside can create a greater sense of openness. In addition to lamplight, flameless candles and fairy lights can brighten up the room.
• Keep the temperature comfortable and consistent. Overly warm or drafty rooms can be distracting and unsettling, creating unnecessary discomfort.
• Bring in some plants and flowers. Having a bit of the outdoors brought indoors will improve morale and add a healthy freshness to the room.
• Engage in favorite indoor activities. This might be a craft or as simple as putting together a photo album.
• Take a step outdoors. Weather permitting and with safety precautions in place, a few steps or even a short walk around the yard brings fresh air which can quickly improve breathing and reduce the stress caused by being indoors for long periods of time.
• Arrange visits from family and friends. Scheduling regular visits will add variety to your loved one’s day and give them something to look forward to. These visits will also encourage connection and engagement with others, very important for individuals with dementia.

Being aware of the impact these long, cold winter days can have on the emotional, physical and mental health of individuals with dementia is a critical first step for family caregivers. Taking actions, such as those above, will help to keep your loved one engaged and connected in a more positive way to you and their surroundings. They will feel better and more alert, and their mindset will be more positive. So will yours. And remember to remind them that winter will not last forever. The sun will shine again!

We encourage you to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities for more tips on how to help conquer winter blues for your loved one and yourself. We’re here to help!

Setting a doctor’s appointment for a loved one who is showing signs of dementia is a unique and often daunting experience for families. Where to begin? Who to call? What will the next steps be? How will my loved one deal with the diagnosis?

Start by setting up an appointment with your loved one’s general physician.

Your loved one’s GP is typically the one they are most comfortable visiting. They are equipped to begin the process of having them tested. Some may conduct the tests themselves or oversee the process conducted by a trained specialist. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, most trained physicians are able to provide an accurate diagnosis 90% of the time.

In advance of your initial visit:

• Call ahead. Inform them that you will be accompanying your loved one. They will let you know how much of the time you will be allowed to be in the room with your loved one. Some tests may need to be conducted without your presence. Knowing in advance will help you better prepare. Consider scheduling a call with the doctor before the appointment to share important information that could impact the exam but might be inappropriate or distressing to discuss in your loved one’s presence.
• Do your homework. Arm yourself with as much information as possible. Jot down notes as to what behavioral changes you have seen. You can use the Dementia Behavioral Assessment tool to help describe the changes to the physician.
• Complete all paperwork in advance. Most physicians’ offices now provide check-in paperwork online. Taking care of that in advance will make the visit less hectic.

The Alzheimer’s Association also recommends jotting down some questions to ask, which might include:

• What tests will be performed?
• What does each test involve?
• How long will the tests take?
• How long will it take to learn results?

On the day of your visit:

Harvard Health has published some good tips for optimizing your initial visit and making it less stressful on you and your loved one. We’ve paraphrased a few of them below:

• Final preparation. Walk your loved one through as much as you know about the process and make it clear that you may not have immediate results. Decide who will do most of the talking. Will it be your loved one, you or both of you? Deciding this in advance will make it easier to interact with the doctor.

6. Treat your loved one with respect. Choose your words and reactions carefully. Resist talking  down to them or referring to them in third person. Don’t criticize them, especially in the presence of the physician. Think of how you would want to be treated if your roles were reversed.
7. Take notes. The more notes, the better! Don’t be afraid to ask the physician to slow down to give you time to jot down their initial observations, advice, and instructions. And, be sure to get answers to the questions you jotted down in advance of the visit.

After a diagnosis of dementia has been made, the follow up begins.

Once a dementia diagnosis is made, the journey of care and support begins. This new chapter involves navigating various steps to ensure your loved one receives the best possible care. While it may feel overwhelming at first, breaking the process into manageable pieces can help you focus on what needs to be done and when.

In addition to continuing regular checkups with your loved one’s primary care physician, you may need to coordinate appointments with a team of specialists. These healthcare professionals might include any of the following: neurologists, neuropsychologists, therapists, and nurses, among others. Each plays an important role in assessing cognitive changes, developing personalized treatment plans, and addressing your loved one’s unique needs.

With the help of these experts, your family can better understand the progression of dementia and explore strategies to enhance your loved one’s quality of life. While it’s natural to feel uncertain at first, know that you are not alone—support and guidance are available every step of the way.

By following the tips above, those doctor visits will become less hectic and more routine as you and your loved one become acclimated to their care plan. Consider gaining access to your loved one’s patient portal. This will help you stay on track and organize doctor visits more easily.

Remember, too, to encourage and accept support from family members and close friends. Your loved one’s care journey is not one to take alone.

Feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities as you begin this journey. We have resources to help you in all aspects of loving and caring for your loved one and, just as important, for yourself!

Don Jacobson, World War II veteran and resident of Franklin Place Memory Care in Franklin, Wisconsin celebrated his 102nd birthday joined by fellow residents, staff, and family.

Mr. Jacobson served in the Navy in WW II before becoming a tool and die maker at Allis Chalmers. He was married for 65 years and has 12 children and 29 grandchildren to show for it!

Everyone had a wonderful time celebrating this special birthday and sharing memories of earlier days. The event was covered in the Franklin Patch which you can read here.

When an individual is in the earlier stages of dementia, the symptoms can be easy for family members to push aside. After all, they’re getting older and more forgetful. That happens to all of us, right? Yet, at some point, real concern may begin to creep in. “How could mom forget the name of her primary doctor?” or “Why did dad leave the water in the sink running?”

Those concerns should not be ignored.

Because there is a difference between occasionally forgetting a name or misplacing your keys and behaviors that signal the onset of dementia. And, while we may want to pass forgetfulness off as normal aging, in many cases we intuitively sense that it may be something more.

That early sense that something may be wrong is when it is time to have a talk with your loved one.

It isn’t easy. No one wants to be in the position of telling a loved one, especially a parent, that they are showing signs of dementia. And yet encouraging them to test for a potential early diagnosis has many benefits. So the time is now to have “the talk”.

The Alzheimer’s Association has tips as to when and how to broach this sensitive topic and communicate effectively with your loved one. Here are five we’ve summarized below to help make “the talk” easier:

1. Decide “who”. That may be you, a family member, or a trusted friend. The best approach is usually one-on-one so that the loved one doesn’t feel outnumbered and threatened.
2. Decide “when”. While it is important to have the conversation as soon as possible, pick a time when your loved one is more relaxed. Make sure you have time as you don’t want to be rushed.
3. What to say, what not to say. Here are some suggestions:
   
   
   1. “I’ve noticed [a change] in you, and I’m concerned. Have you noticed it? Are you worried?”
   1. “How have you been feeling lately? You haven’t seemed like yourself.”
   1. “I noticed you [give a specific example] and it worried me. Has anything else like that happened?”
4. Encourage them to set a doctors appointment. Here are some suggestions:
   1. “There are lots of things that could be causing this, and dementia may or may not be one of them. Let’s see if the doctor can help us figure out what’s going on.”
   1. “The sooner we know what’s causing these problems, the sooner we can address it.”
   1. “I think it would give us both peace of mind if we talked with a doctor.”
5. Be patient. Don’t expect full agreement and cooperation in one discussion. The first conversation may not be successful. Write down some notes about the experience to help plan for the next conversation. Notes might include:
   1. What worked well?
   1. What didn’t work?
   1. What resulted?
   1. What can be done differently next time?

Those of us who have been through this sensitive discussion know that it is never easy. We also know, however, how important that discussion is to the health and wellbeing of a loved one in the early stages of dementia.

Do you have more questions or concerns? Feel free to contact any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and share our own experiences and resources with you. We’re always here to help.

If you want to know how much our residents and staff love the holidays, just walk inside the doors of any of our communities and you’ll feel the joy. To be honest, we’re not sure which we enjoy most, the preparations, the visits from schoolchildren and families, or the actual holiday itself. We just love it all.

For individuals living with dementia, the holidays have special meaning. Like all of us, they too cherish the familiar joys of engaging in seasonal traditions. Many of our residents find themselves reminiscing about earlier days spent trimming the Christmas tree, or lighting the candles on the menorah, or the hustle and bustle of shopping for toys for the kids. And we love hearing their stories.

This is a special time of the year when we come together to celebrate the season and each other. In that spirit we’d like to share some of the many holiday activities our residents and staff have enjoyed … so far!

Residents of Cascade Creek Memory Care in Rochester, Minnesota made Angel Cards with handwritten notes to distribute to individuals who are alone during the holidays.

This resident of Harvester Place Memory Care in Burr Ridge, Illinois picks out fun gift items to be distributed as part of their annual Toy Drive.

Putting the final touches on the gorgeous Christmas tree at Vineyard Place Memory Care in Murietta, California.

This resident of Franklin Place Memory Care helps deliver food items to the Milwaukee Hunger Task Force for distribution to underserved members of the greater community.

Local students from St. James Elementary School visited Chelsea Place Memory Care in Aurora, Colorado to sing carols and bring joy to residents and staff.

How are you celebrating the season with your family? If you have a loved one with dementia, there may be many activities in which you can include them. Gathering with family and friends is a big part of the season.

Before you know it, the holidays will be over. Make sure you take some time to relax and enjoy them. And feel free to visit any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. You are always welcome here!

(Our lovely header image shows residents of Morningside Place Memory Care in Overland Park, Kansas getting into the holiday spirit!)

A group of local homeschoolers joined Concord Place Memory Care residents and staff for a holiday celebration. The activities included crafts, tree decorating, and Christmas carols.

The day was topped off with a visit from Santa Claus! Inter-generational activities are so beneficial to individuals with memory loss. The children enjoy the interactions too.

You can read the full article on this special visit in the Farragut Press here.

Not everyone is feeling the joy this holiday season. And residents of Cascade Creek Memory Care in Rochester, Minnesota decided to do something about it. They have participated in the Angel Card Project, sending cards with handwritten notes to 17 states. The Angel Card Project is an internet-based charity that encourages groups to send greeting cards to those in need.

Giving back during the holiday season is a wonderful feeling, especially for individuals living with dementia. Like all of us, they value the opportunity to help make a difference in the lives of others, especially during the holidays.

Cascade Creek's participation in the Angel Card Project was covered by the Rochester Patch. You can read the full story here.

We often hear from families who are seeking better ways of connecting with their loved ones with dementia. And, just as often, a family caregiver will share with us that exciting moment when, presented with an old photo, mom or dad perked up and proceeded to recall with great detail the individuals in the photo and the situation in which it was taken.

Of course, moments like these are precious for everyone. But figuring out what item might spark a memory isn’t easy. The truth is that everyone is unique, with their own individual life story full of memories. And as for which single item might stir a memory … no one can know for certain.

What is a memory box? What should go into it?

A memory box is a great way for families to gather together special mementos from days past and keep them in a place where they can be enjoyed regularly. It is exactly what it sounds like, a box full of memories. And they can include all kinds of things:

• Photographs
• Pictures, artwork, drawings made by loved ones
• Postcards
• Newspaper clippings
• Small personal items with meaning, such as an old coin case or wallet
• Jewelry, money clip, belt buckles
• Any other mementos that aren’t overly bulky and can fit in a box.

Some families create virtual memory boxes by storing photos, music, videos and audio tapes online. The objective is always the same, to keep precious mementos together in a safe, but accessible place where other family members can contribute to them along the way.

For individuals with dementia, these memory boxes are powerful in their ability to connect them with their past as well as connect to those around them. Sorting through the various mementos together brings a unique opportunity for families with loved ones who have a dementia because, while it impairs cognition and short term memory, it often leaves long term memories intact  

Memory boxes can also be used for other purposes including:

• Sharing with family and close friends.
• Providing background to the loved one’s senior care living community.
• Connecting younger generations in the family to the loved one’s life.

It isn’t hard to get started making a memory box for your loved one. Chances are you probably have a good portion of items readily available. Then it’s just a matter of finding a sturdy box that is large enough to hold the mementos but not too heavy. Many craft stores sell wooden or heavy cardboard storage boxes at reasonable prices.

If you’d like to put a memory box together for your loved one, here are some tips:

• Try to include written descriptions of the major milestones in your loved one’s life. Short notes and recollections can later be read aloud to your loved one.
• Be sure to write captions on your photos and include the names of those in the photo, along with dates.
• It doesn’t have to be a box. For instance, you can use a large jar to hold smaller photos and memorabilia. Smaller jars can be placed in areas around the home for quick access.
• Given the popularity of making short videos, you might have a family member record a short interview with your loved one and get them talking about the old days. You can play them back for them and other family members and friends.

Remember, there are no hard fast rules to building memory boxes. And you can certainly make more than one and keep them in convenient places for easy access. Then, when you find yourself sitting with mom on a rainy day, you now have a fun activity to enjoy. “Mom, let’s take a look at our memory box. I added a few items.”  

Memory boxes may be full of old mementos, but the delight of engaging with them never grows old. The conversations surrounding a visit to the memory box will always be fresh and alive. Not only will your memory box benefit your loved one with dementia, but everyone in the family will soon discover the value of the special connections it brings.  

Need some more tips? Feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. Many of our residents and staff members have created memory boxes. We’ll be glad to share some ideas to get you started.

To address the ongoing challenges of food insecurity in Milwaukee, residents and staff of Franklin Place Memory Care hosted a special month-long food drive, collecting 64 pounds of nonperishable food items. The food donations were then taken to the Hunger Task Force of West Milwaukee, Wisonsin where they will be distributed to local families in need.

The food drive was covered by the local Franklin Patch. You can read the full story here.

The holidays bring plenty of opportunities for lunches and dinners with friends and family. Restaurants are decorated and everyone is in a festive mood with high spirits. It is a special time to reconnect and catch up while enjoying a meal together.

It’s only natural that families would want to have a loved one with dementia be part of these get togethers. They may recollect dinners out at their favorite restaurants in years past and want to continue family traditions. But there can be real concerns as to how their loved one will react to the noise and traffic of servers moving from table to table and raised voices from other diners.

If you are facing these concerns, it’s understandable. Know that you are not alone. However, by doing some homework and with a little planning, your loved one may be able to join in the fun of a family lunch or dinner.

Here are eight tips to optimize a dining out experience for everyone:

1. Prepare those who will be joining you. Much of this will depend on the stage of dementia your loved one is experiencing. Be sure to encourage everyone to interact at a slower pace and communicate clearly. This will be less stressful for your loved one and keep everyone more relaxed.
2. Research “dementia friendly” restaurants in your area. We are seeing more of them spring up as proprietors become more sensitive to the special needs and circumstances of many families in their communities.
3. Or, opt for your loved one’s favorite restaurant. While it may not be as elegant as some family members might wish, the familiar environment will be more relaxing for your loved one.
4. Timing can make a big difference. Try to avoid the lunch or dinner crunch. With it come crowds and added noise. Planning your meal during a restaurant’s less busy hours may result in faster service and a quieter atmosphere which is less stressful for everyone.
5. Location, location, location. An advance reservation may allow you to select a table that is out of the main ebb and flow of foot traffic.If it’s close to the bathrooms better yet. Consider an outdoor table if the weather permits. Make sure your table is under an umbrella to control sun exposure.  
6. Arrive with your loved one separately. Being in a crowded car can raise anxiety levels for everyone. Plus, if you need to leave for any reason, the rest of the family can remain.
7. Take your time. Once seated, take a deep breath and encourage everyone to relax and enjoy the moment. Read the menu items to your loved one slowly if they aren’t able to themselves. Keep the conversation light and easy.
8. Be watchful. Check in every few minutes with your loved one. Ask if they are okay and enjoying themselves. Be prepared to leave if you observe heightened anxiety or if they become agitated or confused.

But before you start making reservations …

Often, in an eagerness to be inclusive, families may neglect to ask their loved one in advance how they feel about having a meal in a restaurant. Before you go to the trouble of planning your dining experience make sure they truly want to participate.

For instance, an older parent may be just as happy staying at home, preferring the peace and quiet of a smaller gathering at their home or in their senior living community. Don’t force them out of their routine if they clearly aren’t up to it. Instead, set a date when you can arrange for the family to visit them and dine together.

For those who are up for it, however, follow the above guidelines. It will give your loved one a precious opportunity to get out and socialize, something that is so important for those challenged by dementia. It may even lead to more meals out in the future, giving them (and your family) something to look forward to.

We love it when family members come to dine with residents at our Anthem Memory Care communities. We are proud of our culinary staff and the delicious meals they prepare. We welcome you to reach out to us or drop in to any of our communities for a visit and to enjoy a meal on us.

In the meantime, happy holidays. And bon appétit!