Pat's Gameplan | Caring for the Caregivers

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Welcome to the Caregiver Forum!

This is the place to connect with others who are on the same caregiver journey as you. Here, you can share your experiences, find support, or just chat with others who truly understand the hardship and, yes, even the occasional joy of being a caregiver. This community is here to provide you with the emotional support and practical advice you need. Feel free to ask questions, share your stories, and offer advice based on your own experiences. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Our f... more

Posted by: Pat's Gameplan

(11)

Sarah Mitchell 1 year ago

Happy to be here! Love the Share My Story videos the most!

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Lisa Johnson 1 year ago

Thank you for creating such a great place for us to connect!

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Claude Turner 1 year ago

Grateful to be here. I am the newest caregiver for my brother Ronald. I never dreamed this would happen. But every single day is a new adventure. Looking forward to connecting!

Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

This site has so much value! Thanks Pat Summitt Team for what you have done!

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Cassie Deaner 1 year ago

This site, and sites like it are sooooooo needed!

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Susan Edwards 1 year ago

Thrilled to have found this community!

Derek Thomas 10 months ago

Thrilled to have found a community like this.

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Zander Thompson 10 months ago

One of the best communities with resources that I have found. Thanks everyone who is behind the scenes.

Tabitha Stevens 8 months ago

The resources on this site are EXACTLY what we've been looking for. This is the best kept secret that EVERYONE needs to know about!

Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

This community needs anywhere that can provide answers. This journey is anything but easy.

Marvin Lethers 2 weeks ago

Great Resource!

New to Caregiving - Where Do I Start?

My dad was just diagnosed with dementia and I'm feeling completely lost. I'm an only child and live 2 hours away. I don't even know where to begin - medical care, home safety, legal issues, finances. Those who've been through this, what do you wish you had known at the beginning?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Anonymous 3 days ago

Start with safety first - remove trip hazards, install grab bars, secure potentially dangerous items. Then focus on getting legal documents in order while your dad can still participate. Most importantly, connect with local support groups. You don't have to do this alone!

Adult Day Care Programs - Worth It?

We're considering adult day care for my mom 2-3 days a week to give me time to work and run errands. Has anyone used these programs? What should we look for in a good facility? The cost is significant but I think it might help both of us. Would love to hear your experiences.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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GPS Trackers and Safety Apps

My father with dementia has started wandering. We're looking into GPS tracking devices and wondering what others have used successfully. Also interested in apps that might help with daily reminders and medication management. Technology feels overwhelming but I know it could really help us.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Power of Attorney - When Is the Right Time?

My mother was recently diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's. Our lawyer suggested setting up power of attorney while she still has capacity to make decisions. For those who've been through this, when did you handle the legal paperwork? Any advice on what documents we should prioritize?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Meal Ideas for Someone Who Forgets to Eat

My grandmother often forgets she hasn't eaten or says she's not hungry. I've started preparing small, colorful finger foods that are easy to grab. Things like cut fruit, cheese cubes, and mini sandwiches work well. Anyone have other suggestions for encouraging regular eating?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Fun Activities for Someone with Moderate Dementia

Looking for activity ideas that work for moderate-stage dementia. My dad loves music and used to enjoy puzzles, but regular puzzles are now too frustrating for him. We've had success with simple coloring books and listening to his favorite oldies. What activities keep your loved ones engaged?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Self-Care Tips That Actually Work

After burning out last year, I've learned some self-care strategies that really help: 1) Schedule 15 minutes daily just for yourself, 2) Join a support group (even online counts!), 3) Ask for help - it's not weakness. What self-care practices have helped you maintain your wellbeing?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Feeling Overwhelmed - Need Support

I've been caring for my mom for 3 years now and lately I'm feeling completely exhausted. Between work, caregiving, and trying to maintain my own life, I feel like I'm drowning. How do you all manage the emotional toll? I know I need to take care of myself but I feel guilty whenever I take a break.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Anonymous 3 days ago

You're not alone in feeling this way. I found that even 10 minutes of meditation each morning helps me reset. And please don't feel guilty about needing breaks - you can't pour from an empty cup. Sending you strength!

Dealing with Sundowning Syndrome

My father experiences increased confusion and agitation in the evenings. His doctor called it sundowning. We've tried keeping lights on and maintaining a calm environment. Has anyone found other effective strategies? It's really challenging for our family.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Anonymous 3 days ago

We experienced this too. Our neurologist recommended avoiding afternoon naps and increasing light exposure during the day. Also, a small snack and calming music in the evening seems to help.

Tips for Managing Daily Routines

I wanted to share some strategies that have helped me maintain a consistent daily routine for my mother who has dementia. Creating a structured schedule has really reduced her anxiety. What routines have worked for you?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 9th, 2025

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Anonymous 3 days ago

Visual schedules have been a game changer for us! We use a whiteboard with pictures showing each part of the day. Mom seems less anxious when she can see what comes next.

Anonymous 3 days ago

We keep the same routine every single day - breakfast at 8, walk at 10, lunch at noon. The predictability really helps. Also, we involve Dad in simple tasks like folding laundry which gives him purpose.

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🦃 Happy Thanksgiving from Pat’s Gameplan

As Thanksgiving approaches, we want to take a moment to honor you — the caregivers who give so much of yourselves every single day. This season can feel different when you’re caring for a loved one. Traditions may change. Guest lists may be smaller. Schedules may look nothing like they used to. And that’s okay. We’d love to hear from you. 💬 Tell us in the comments: What will be different about your Thanksgiving this year? Are you starting any new traditions? What is one thing... more

Posted by: Pats Gameplan on November 25th, 2025

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Deliah Jacobs 2 weeks ago

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! For us this is a very different and new year, this is the 1st year we will have Dad's nurse with us for Thanksgiving. We are thankful for another year!

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When is it time?

Love the website, lots of great content. The Share My Story videos are my very favorite. I am caring for my FIL, who honestly fades in and out of reality at this point. What are the markers, or indicators that a facility with memory care is needed?

Posted by: Patty Teague on November 21st, 2025

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Marvin Lethers 2 weeks ago

Can you get him into assisted living first? For us, we transitioned into assisted living, then let the assisted living staff work with him (and us) to make that transition.

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It's been harder than I thought it would be!

Hello everyone, my name is Barbara and I’m grateful to be here. I live in southern Louisiana with my husband and our three kids, and for the past three years I’ve also been a full-time caregiver to my father-in-law, Larry. He was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at 67 and now, at 71, we’re starting to see deeper cognitive decline. This forum feels like a lifeline — a space where people like me, who are doing the best they can with very little guidance, can finally ask questions without fea... Hello everyone, my name is Barbara and I’m grateful to be here. I live in southern Louisiana with my husband and our three kids, and for the past three years I’ve also been a full-time caregiver to my father-in-law, Larry. He was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at 67 and now, at 71, we’re starting to see deeper cognitive decline. This forum feels like a lifeline — a space where people like me, who are doing the best they can with very little guidance, can finally ask questions without fear of judgment. One of the hardest transitions we’ve faced so far has been helping Larry let go of managing the family finances. For over 40 years, he balanced the books and paid every bill by hand. Giving up the checkbook felt like losing a piece of his identity, and it took months of gentle conversations, misplaced payments, and tearful standoffs before he reluctantly handed over the reins. I still second-guess myself sometimes — am I protecting his dignity or just pushing him too fast? At the same time, I’ve been knee-deep in the maze of Medicare, Medicaid, and Part D prescription plans. Trying to plan for long-term care with so many conflicting policies and denials has been overwhelming. It’s like learning a new language while putting out daily fires. I’m reaching out here because I know I’m not the only one walking this road. If you’ve been through the financial transition with a loved one, how did you navigate it without causing heartbreak or resentment? How do you plan for what’s ahead when the rules keep changing? I just want to say how helpful the Financial Care section on the Learn page has been — it’s the first time I’ve seen practical, step-by-step advice that didn’t make me feel like I needed a law degree to understand. Thank you for making space for caregivers like me. I’m really looking forward to learning from you all. Hello everyone, my name is Barbara and I’m grateful to be here. I live in southern Louisiana with my husband and our three kids, and for the past three years I’ve also been a full-time caregiver to my father-in-law, Larry. He was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at 67 and now, at 71, we’re starting to see deeper cognitive decline. This forum feels like a lifeline — a space where people like me, who are doing the best they can with very little guidance, can finally ask questions without fear of judgment. One of the hardest transitions we’ve faced so far has been helping Larry let go of managing the family finances. For over 40 years, he balanced the books and paid every bill by hand. Giving up the checkbook felt like losing a piece of his identity, and it took months of gentle conversations, misplaced payments, and tearful standoffs before he reluctantly handed over the reins. I still second-guess myself sometimes — am I protecting his dignity or just pushing him too fast? At the same time, I’ve been knee-deep in the maze of Medicare, Medicaid, and Part D prescription plans. Trying to plan for long-term care with so many conflicting policies and denials has been overwhelming. It’s like learning a new language while putting out daily fires. I’m reaching out here because I know I’m not the only one walking this road. If you’ve been through the financial transition with a loved one, how did you navigate it without causing heartbreak or resentment? How do you plan for what’s ahead when the rules keep changing? I just want to say how helpful the Financial Care section on the Learn page has been — it’s the first time I’ve seen practical, step-by-step advice that didn’t make me feel like I needed a law degree to understand. Thank you for making space for caregivers like me. I’m really looking forward to learning from you all. more

Posted by: Barbara Womack on August 4th, 2025

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Anyone else's emotions all over the map?

Lately, I’ve found myself struggling with a wave of emotions I didn’t expect—especially anger. I’m not proud of it, but I’ve been snapping at my husband over the little things. He asks me the same question again and again, and instead of calmly repeating the answer, I lose my patience. When he was first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, I was able to stay calm, grounded, and full of compassion. I thought I had a handle on it. But now... now I feel like I’m the one falling apart. It’s confusing beca... more

Posted by: Sandy Travers on July 9th, 2025

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Kathryn 2 months ago

Caregiving is heavy It's hard, messy, awful, rewarding, beautiful, and about every other thing you can think of depending on the day and time. You are not alone and I think a lot of us struggle with that feeling. Even though we love the ones we are caring for, it doesn't really make it easier. It might make it harder because we know exactly who they were. Just allow yourself to feel the emotions that come up and then try to let them go. Try not to let the emotional rollercoaster get to you. Along the way, you'll feel it all. And I say that because though it will be hard, there are also moments of great reward. Hang in there.

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Caring for FIL who refuses to shower

Just as the title states. I am the main caregiver for my father in law and in the past 5 days he has fully refused to shower. He keeps telling me that he doesn't need to shower because he "just took one", there isn't any amount of reasoning I can do to convince him otherwise. This is a new problem, but I can only see it leading to his placement in a memory care facility. Has anyone experienced this?

Posted by: Taylor Kenney on June 15th, 2025

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Barbara Womack 4 months ago

Yes, this is one of the most difficult things!

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Treatment Options?

I am currently caring form my father who was diagnosed with early onset dementia. I am reading about several treatment options that others have pursued. Specifically we are interested in any experience anyone has had with Kisunla. We would also be interested in another treatments that anyone has experienced and their experiences whether positive or negative.

Posted by: Harold Nedder on May 26th, 2025

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Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

I am the caregiver for my FIL, he is currently taking Rivastigmine, Memantine and Risperidone, but I believe these are pre-existing conditions and not intended to cure ALZ.

Marvin Lethers 2 weeks ago

I had no idea there were medications available.

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Is a dog a good idea?

I'm caring for my FIL and we are struggling to get to daily exercise every day. I was thinking if we could get a dog that would give us a reason to exercise daily. Is this a good idea? Overall what are the expectations of someone with dementia? Does the dog work well or would this be something that he may come to resent? Looking forward to hearing your experiences.

Posted by: John McGhee on April 28th, 2025

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Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

In my opinion I would say Noooooooo!!!!! to getting a pet. This disease progresses so quickly that a dog is the last thing anyone will need and it can only add complications to what is already happening.

Barbara Womack 4 months ago

A dog is always a great idea.

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300 Piece Puzzles are the way to go

I wanted to make a quick post and let others know that for the past few months we have been having a lot of success with 300 piece puzzles. Before we started buying and solving them, my aunt (that I am caring for) wouldn't ever want me to leave the house. Now, when she is working on one her puzzles she wants me to leave so she can have a few minutes of her own time and space. It's felt normal again, and its been really nice. Also, I should mention, these are large piece 300 piece puzzles.

Posted by: Tracey Rogers on April 11th, 2025

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John McGhee 7 months ago

We are doing 100 page puzzles, but they have been a great weekly activity.

Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

We quickly found ourselves at 25 piece puzzles, please don't be discouraged.

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I'm using your videos in my current college curriculum.

I want to send kudos to Pat's Gameplan, the videos on this site are really great. I am a community college instructor and I have shown several of these videos to my human services classes. The majority of my students are working on their LSW. Keep up the good work and we look forward to more videos in the future.

Posted by: Todd Nedderfield on April 9th, 2025

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Tracey Rogers 8 months ago

What a great idea!

Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

I'd love to be in one of your classes!

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Shoutout to the Resources page on this website

I've been searching all over to find resources to help us, and the resources page on this site is EXACTLY what I have been looking for. The Community Resource Finder has connected us locally. Thank you for posting these community resources. https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/ProviderSearch/

Posted by: Tabitha Stevens on March 26th, 2025

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Todd Nedderfield 8 months ago

Looking into the resources now, thanks for posting!

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Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

+1 the Resources page is Great!

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Is it about control? Even now? Tips to manage?

I'm caring for my father-in-law. At first, I was involving him in all of the medical and care decisions. I believed this was important, and it empowered him. Currently, I have been doing this less. This is due to his ability to retain and comprehend the situation as a whole. This has caused a "riff" between us, one that he does seem to remember pretty well, even when he can't remember other things. How much of this is entrenched in his ability to perceive he has control of the situation, me and... more

Posted by: Dale Teague on March 17th, 2025

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When to cancel the cell phone line

Hey gang, serious question. I am a caregiver for my 77 year old father, and he is answering every call on his cell phone and often giving his credit card and personal information out. I know part of it is that he is lonely, but I also know he's been taken advantage of by spam calls and fraudsters several times as well. We have a stack of bank disputes. I know his independence is tied to his cell, and he doesn't have a lot else. Is this the time to cancel his cell plan?

Posted by: Chrissy Thompson on March 12th, 2025

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Dale Teague 8 months ago

Don't cancel it, but take it away. That is what we did.

Tabitha Stevens 8 months ago

Yes, its time to cancel the plan!

Marvin Lethers 2 weeks ago

Get a POA ASAP!

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Struggling to Keep Up: A Caregiver's Journey

Hi, I’m Marissa Simpson, and I’m the primary caregiver for my husband, Ryan, who was diagnosed with early onset dementia last year at the age of 52. The diagnosis hit us like a thunderbolt, and since then, each day presents new challenges—from managing his unpredictable mood swings to trying to keep up with his gradually fading memory. I feel overwhelmed juggling work, home responsibilities, and the care that Ryan needs, especially as his condition makes simple tasks like remembering names or da... more

Posted by: Marissa Simpson on February 15th, 2025

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Chrissy Thompson 9 months ago

Sounds like you should invite in-home health care in for a free consult.

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Letting go every single day

Hi. I am a caregiver for my uncle, going on almost 2 years now. I wanted to share a trick I learned a few months back that really seems to help me. Its called "quitting". Every day, at the end of the day I fully quit. I resign. I finish. With this trick I am able to sleep at night, and when I wake up I choose to start again. Take your power back. I hope this helps someone like it's helped me. Take care of yourselves guys.

Posted by: Zander Thompson on February 11th, 2025

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Chrissy Thompson 9 months ago

I identify with this whole-heartedly. This is a great mental exercise, and one that might keep us sane!

Tracey Rogers 8 months ago

This.

Sandy Travers 5 months ago

oh I needed to hear this. TY -st

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Wouldn't change a thing - Caregiving is difficult, but has its rewards

Caring for my father through his Alzheimer's journey has been one of the hardest challenges of my life. Some days are filled with frustration, confusion, and sadness, but I wouldn’t change a thing. The moments of clarity, when he remembers something from the past or when we share a laugh over something small, are priceless. It’s been a lesson in patience, resilience, and the importance of living in the moment. Though I often feel overwhelmed, the bond we’ve strengthened through this experience i... more

Posted by: Derek Thomas on February 3rd, 2025

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Zander Thompson 10 months ago

I agree with you. Please read my post when you get the chance. I think it may benefit you.

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Caregiving is a lonely place, how do you beat it?

I've been a caregiver for my mother in law for 6 and a half months, and I have to say, it's a very lonely place to be. I can't imagine doing this without the internet. Doctors appointments are all I seem to have the time for. This site, and community is a bigger ray of light than people realize. What are other caregivers doing to beat this loneliness?

Posted by: Sandi Rogers on January 14th, 2025

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Derek Thomas 10 months ago

This forum is a fantastic start!

Zander Thompson 10 months ago

I agree. It's online communities like this one that make the difference.

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Just want to say Thank You!

This site, resources and group has given me a lot of hope over the past 3 months! The video stories are beyond fantastic.

Posted by: Doris M Smith on January 3rd, 2025

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Sandi Rogers 10 months ago

I agree! We need each other.

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What's normal when it comes to changes in abilities?

Hi to all of you. I just stumbled onto this site. I don't know if it's normal to have a dramatic turn in abilities or memory or if it comes and goes quickly? My FIL started down this road last December. He has bouts of not knowing how old he is. He's 77 and he thinks he is 20 then 30 then 50. He has always worked right up to when he was hospitalized. One day he will be really good then the next he is hallucinating with animals running around in his room. He can be talking to you normally and the... Hi to all of you. I just stumbled onto this site. I don't know if it's normal to have a dramatic turn in abilities or memory or if it comes and goes quickly? My FIL started down this road last December. He has bouts of not knowing how old he is. He's 77 and he thinks he is 20 then 30 then 50. He has always worked right up to when he was hospitalized. One day he will be really good then the next he is hallucinating with animals running around in his room. He can be talking to you normally and then you will see his head turn like he is looking at something. I ask what he is looking at? Oh those sheep are rough housing again it's because it's raining in the room. Then a week later he can be perfectly normal. Then back to hallucinating and not having a clue how old he is or reality again. He is in a nursing home which is the best place for him. My emotional transmission is about tore out. I prepare myself that he will be in the delusional state until his life is over but then he starts putting things together again. I guess I get hopeful that it was just a small dip. Today he was ducking because the chopper was flying through his room. He wants a job. He wants to earn money. He doesn't want to listen to the radio or watch TV. He refuses to engage in any activities. He will sit in his room alone in silence for weeks. I go to visit him almost everyday. He knows who I am and calls me by name. He also thanks me for coming to see him every time I go. I was talking to the nurse today and I asked his about a sensory blanket.? He said I think that would be to easy for him he wants to work. He gave him a bunch of socks and wash clothes to fold and he said it helped soothe him. He recommended that I get some second hand store clothes basket of things for him to fold so he could feel accomplished at a task. He also gets very upset thinking people are stealing from him. He has marked all of his clothes with huge initials all over the front of his clothes. I am almost afraid to give him the extra things because if he thinks they disappeared he will more then likely get violent. If anybody has any similar experiences or has any ideas on how to help him calm his delusions, anxiety, or aggression it would be much appreciated. more

Posted by: Susan Edwards on December 11th, 2024

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Susan Edwards 1 year ago

I look forward to replies!

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Diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimers Action Plan (from personal experience)

Hello Community, I wanted to come here and post what I did when my father was first diagnosed with early-onset. This is my action plan and the steps we took. Please feel free to comment and add your suggestions and experiences. 1. Education (start by watching every single video available on this site). 2. Financial planning, consider your family, insurance and any work responsibilities you have. 3. Stay healthy. Join a gym, quit alcohol, improve your diet. 4. Use memory aids. Buy a cal... more

Posted by: Darla Brown on October 30th, 2024

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Susan Edwards 1 year ago

Thank you for sharing this! This is very helpful to us!

Zander Thompson 10 months ago

Thanks for putting this together. We need more grassroots resources like this.

Dale Teague 8 months ago

Thank you for this list.

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General Insurance Question

Has medicaid or Medicare or private insurance helped with any of the necessary treatments in your experience? We are at an impasse with continuing to fund required treatments and are looking for some guidance.

Posted by: Cassie Deaner on September 26th, 2024

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Darla Brown 1 year ago

Nothing from medicare or medicaid on our end. But we did take out social security disability to help pay for our commercial insurance provider.

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Susan Edwards 1 year ago

We have also been working to be able to use Medicare for ALZ treatment and caregiver fees.

Dale Teague 8 months ago

We are 100% Medicare.

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Supportive Therapy Recommendations?

I am looking for real world supportive therapy recommendations. I know therapy groups exist, but I haven't been able to find one. Also, online its recommended that early onset patients should learn a new activity. Can anyone recommend a new activity their patient has learned? The examples I am finding are learning a second language or musical instrument. I can't personally see either of those things going well, but if others have lived it, and hound it to be successful I'll give it a try.

Posted by: Kellen Brown on September 23rd, 2024

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Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

We are currently taking piano lessons, so far it has been incredible.

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Darla Brown 1 year ago

We have joined activities at our local community center.

Susan Edwards 1 year ago

Not an activity, but we are spending a lot of time folding laundry, seems to help in a lot of ways.

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Resources for Support Groups?

I've been all over social media, I know there are Groups Online for support (and I'm grateful for them), but are there in-person resources as well? Something like a weekly in-person support group that I could attend? I would even be willing to travel (I'm in Southern Florida).

Posted by: Mark Casey on September 13th, 2024

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Kellen Brown 1 year ago

I'm also in Southern FL, this is the directory I have been using: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gyv-zC-3L3uIi6p0YBQBKxE2MMYvJH4W/view and of course: https://alzconnected.org/

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Susan Edwards 1 year ago

Try ALZ Connected, I am also on that forum and there are links to in-person support groups there.

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Sandi Rogers 10 months ago

Thanks for the suggestions! I need something.

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Planner Recommendations?

As a caregiver I know that the daily routine is life and death, but things still creep up, in this current season it seems like more than ever. What are you using from your Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Yearly planner? I haven't found one I really love yet, and I'm not interested in an app. My poor phone is so overrun with apps it just beeps all the time. Do you have a quality brand or something bespoke that you love? If so please drop the link in the discussion below.

Posted by: Michael Taylor on August 28th, 2024

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Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

We use a large print magnetic calendar that sticks to the side of the refrigerator. It would be nice to have a smart phone app that would send us reminders, but so far the tried and true methods are serving us well.

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Michael Taylor 1 year ago

Just wanted to add an update, we are using the "Finisher Journal" at the moment, I'll report back and let you know how its going for us.

Mark Casey 1 year ago

We also use the Finisher Journal! Let me know what you think, and how it works for you.

Susan Edwards 1 year ago

Our planner is on the refrigerator, we stick to it 100%

Tabitha Stevens 8 months ago

Don't count out online planners as well!

Taylor Kenney 5 months ago

Digital on the phone is the way to go!

Sandy Travers 5 months ago

I still write a note and put it on the fridge.

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Cooking suggestions?

I am the primary caregiver for my grandmother, cooking is something we have always shared. Today I am finding myself concerned about the gas being left open on the gas stove. I'm considering having the gas line disconnected. Has anyone gone down this path? We've shifted to more takeout and vegetable meals (I know not really recommended for her (the takeout)). I just feel so lost. Any encouragement is appreciated.

Posted by: Tiffany Bays on August 19th, 2024

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Claude Turner 1 year ago

We have moved to a lot of pre-prepared meals and meal prep. Things can can be heated up in the microwave (for safety reasons). There are a few decent ones online you can order from on a biweekly basis.

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Michael Taylor 1 year ago

We're in the city (Atlanta), we have every single meal catered. Its just easier for us, but by being in the city we have a lot of options as well.

Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

We subscribe to a prepared meal service (local to us). Everything is either ready, goes in the microwave or oven.

Dale Teague 8 months ago

We do a "cookie night" that has changed from a single night to 3x a week sometimes. We have family and friends over and make sure everyone is involved in the cookie making process.

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Resources to help caregivers avoid burnout?

I'm looking for specific resources to pass on to caregivers to help them avoid burn out. I've been in health care for 32 years and caregivers working with Alzheimer's patients appear to be burning out at an alarming rate (this is just my observation, I'm not citing a study or anything). I'm searching for anything from materials, to support groups to assist caregivers in their day to day. I'm located in the Southeast United States.

Posted by: Lauren Thomas LPN on August 13th, 2024

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Emily Johnson 1 year ago

We found the resources on the Learn page of this site extremely helpful as well as the Community Resource Finder: https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/ProviderSearch/ in our area there were several resources that helped us through. Best of luck to you!

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Tiffany Bays 1 year ago

Following.

Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

I recently learned how to play pickleball. The game is fast paced, but I've embraced the challenge and find it very rewarding. I recommend it.

Todd Nedderfield 8 months ago

You've got to find something you love to do and make time for it, that's the only way I've found to avoid burnout.

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Anyone else Scrapbooking?

One of the activities we have been doing with my Mother (diagnosed with Alzheimer's) is Scrapbooking, we got the idea from this thread: https://www.scrapbook.com/forum/?m=topic&tid=116391 (I hope its okay to share a link). The whole family has been involved and its helped bring us closer. Interested in hearing others experiences with it.

Posted by: Allen Rigsby on August 8th, 2024

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Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

Yes! We have been scrapbooking for about 3 years, its been helpful for all of us.

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Lauren Thomas LPN 1 year ago

We found that having a small dog in the house has also helped tremendously. I know a pet isn't for everyone, but in our case its really brought our family together.

Emily Johnson 1 year ago

Puzzles, puzzles, puzzles! We have been doing 2 puzzles a week, its made a big difference.

Tiffany Bays 1 year ago

We've also been doing puzzles, we live a few minutes outside of Nashville and we've found a book store that we can buy and then trade the puzzles back into for credit to get new puzzles. Interested in starting a scrapbook, but it feels like a daunting task.

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Claude Turner 1 year ago

We have been attending Bingo at the community center, its made a world of difference for me and my brother.

1

Michael Taylor 1 year ago

We are also ScrapBooking! Its going great, I wish we had started 40 years ago!

1

Kellen Brown 1 year ago

Just started. Will let you know how it goes!

Dale Teague 8 months ago

Scrapbooking is a great idea! Thanks for posting this.

John McGhee 7 months ago

Scrapbooking and puzzles have been really good for us as well.

Patty Teague 3 weeks ago

We are doing a lot of scrapbooking, its been really great!

35

Looking for recommendations for Memory Care Facilities

I'm a caregiver for my father, currently we live in Nashville, and we've been given the "nudge" by our doctors to start planning for a move to a permanent Memory Care Facility. Does anyone here have any recommendations based on personal experiences? We are willing to relocate. Thanks for your help!

Posted by: Pavel Lesh on August 8th, 2024

(6)

Allen Rigsby 1 year ago

I'm not sure if this is the type of recommendation you are looking for, but NHC in East TN did a great job with my Mother. They also enrolled her in a financial program through TennCare with her Medicaid, through a program called "CHOICES". This greatly helped with the cost.

2

Tiffany Bays 1 year ago

We live about 30 minutes outside of Nashville, have you found a place? I am the primary caregiver for my grandmother and I know we will eventually need a memory care facility.

1

Claude Turner 1 year ago

I am interested in facility recommendations in Southern Florida.

Michael Taylor 1 year ago

We are approaching this same time and you would think there would be a lot of great facilities nearby, but there really aren't. We are looking to relocate to get the very best care.

1

Pavel Lesh 1 year ago

Thanks everyone for the replies, we still haven't settled on a place, but when we do I will post about it and about our experiences there.

Susan Edwards 1 year ago

Not TN, but we live in FL and there seem to be more here then anyone else we have looked.

33

Hi, I'm Emily and my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's just a few months ago.

Hello everyone, my name is Emily, and I am honored to be part of this community, my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's just six months ago, and these past months have been a whirlwind of emotions and challenges. From the initial shock and denial to the gradual acceptance and adjustment, it has been a journey of love, patience, and learning. There have been sleepless nights filled with worry, moments of helplessness, and instances where I feel utterly lost. But amidst all this, there are also... more

Posted by: Emily Johnson on July 29th, 2024

(5)

Sarah Mitchell 1 year ago

Hello Emily, Welcome to the community. I can genuinely feel the depth of emotions you're experiencing. I am 45 years old and have been caring for my mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's three years ago. The initial months are always the hardest; the shock and the wave of emotions can be overwhelming. Like you, I've had my share of sleepless nights and moments of despair. There are days when I feel completely at a loss, struggling to find the right balance. But I've also learned to cherish the small victories, the moments when my mother remembers a cherished memory or smiles at a familiar face. This community has been a beacon of hope for me, providing a safe space where I can share my struggles and triumphs. You're absolutely right – you are not alone. We are all here to support and uplift each other. The bonds you'll form here will provide immense strength and understanding as you navigate this journey with your father. Thank you for sharing your story, Emily. I look forward to learning and growing together with you and everyone in this compassionate community.

2

Lisa Johnson 1 year ago

I am deeply touched by your story. I am 42 years old and have been caring for my mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's two years ago. Like you, the journey has been filled with a mix of emotions—fear, sadness, but also moments of profound love and connection. When my mother was first diagnosed, I felt like the ground had been pulled from under me. The sleepless nights, constant worry, and feeling of helplessness were overwhelming. There were times I felt utterly lost, unsure of how to navigate this new reality. The adjustment period was tough, filled with a lot of trial and error as I tried to figure out the best way to support her. There have been days when I felt completely drained, both physically and emotionally. Balancing work, taking care of my children, and being there for my mother sometimes feels impossible. But, like you mentioned, there are also those precious moments that make it all worthwhile—the shared memories, the unexpected smiles, and the deepened bond that comes from facing these challenges together. Joining this community has been a source of immense strength for me. Knowing that there are others who understand the struggle and can offer support and advice has made a significant difference. I have found solace in the stories shared here, and I hope you will too. You are not alone in this journey, and together we can find the strength and resilience needed to care for our loved ones. Also, the Share My Story videos are my favorite, so much great inspiration.

2

Claude Turner 1 year ago

Touched, thank you for sharing.

1

Michael Taylor 1 year ago

Hang in there, this can be a tough journey without much of a reward, but we know that we were the ones that stepped up and in and made the eternal difference, there isn't anyone who can honor and love our loved ones more than we can. Although we have encountered some very dedicated and loving caregivers throughout this journey.

1

Susan Edwards 1 year ago

I wish there was a way to DM you on this site. We're dealing with the same things.

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