Resource Library
Resources
Helping Older Loved Ones Face Changes in Mental Health
For older adults, mental illness is a conversation made difficult by stereotypes. Assumptions like “Old people are just stubborn” or “He’s become mean as he’s aged” cause many to dismiss mental illness in older adults. For caregivers, messages like these can make it difficult to differentiate mental illness from what are considered “normal parts of aging.”
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What to Know as a Caregiver Before a Loved One’s Hospital Visit
As caregivers, we may encounter sudden changes in a loved one’s health or behavior due to a chronic illness or accident, like a fall. This can be especially worrisome if these changes occur in the middle of the night. We want to get them the help they need as soon as we can, but the first challenge may be trying to decide what is the appropriate place to receive care.
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Senior Center Policy: Challenges and Recommendations
This is an up-to-date virtual discussion on senior center policy and serving older adults in our communities, presented in partnership with the Elder Justice Coalition. We provide an overview of challenges, strategies and recommendations on key issues faced by older adults who utilize senior center services.
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Managing a Loved One with Dementia’s Sensory Challenges
Dementia can change a loved one’s ability to experience these five senses, and that can have a huge impact on how they view the world. Their favorite food might not taste the same way. They may be startled by the sound of laughter they used to love. They may draw away from a once familiar touch. As a caregiver, it’s important to recognize these changes, and to help make your loved one’s world a more comfortable, less overwhelming place to be for each of their five senses.
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How to Hold Family Meetings to Discuss an Older Loved One’s Care
Family meetings can be a valuable tool. Each person can express their thoughts and concerns at the same time. Everyone will hear the same message and come together to support their parent and each other. This will help to reduce misinformation, and make it easier to develop a plan and next steps.
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