Sudden hospitalization can be overwhelming for both patients and their families. At a moment’s notice, you may find yourself navigating complex medical decisions, coordinating care and managing financial concerns — all while trying to focus on recovery. But with a little preparation, you can take charge and ensure a smoother, less stressful experience. Many people… Read more »
When devastation and despair looms, it can be challenging to find the good in our daily lives and keep the things that scare us at bay. In Night by Elie Wiesel, a Romanian-born American professor, political activist, Nobel laureate and holocaust survivor, the author’s 12-year-old self asks persistent questions about suffering answered by his poor… Read more »
Caring for others can be filled with emotions. When you care, you are making a sustained emotional investment in another’s well-being. However, many of the emotions caregivers experience are stressful. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, some of the primary emotions caregivers experience are anger, resentment, grief, sadness, frustration, guilt, loneliness and depression. The care… Read more »
From the 90s until 2015, I helped families as a therapist, particularly with the problem of overwhelmed and exhausted children. Their kids were involved in every activity: ballet, piano, soccer, swim, and more. At the time, I told them to drop at least one activity, and instead, spend more time together as a family at… Read more »
As a nurse advocate and community care coordinator, I have heard many of my clients express a heartfelt desire to age in their own homes, where they also want to receive end-of-life care. Staying in a familiar environment, surrounded by cherished memories and a sense of independence, is deeply comforting. Here’s how you can thrive… Read more »
Most of us don’t want to think about the end of our lives or those of our loved ones. However, preparing ahead can help make options, including a transition to assisted living, feel less overwhelming, thus facilitating confidence and peace of mind. Discussing options, before the decision has to be made, can also ease tension… Read more »
As a caregiver, are you ready for a flood, fire, hurricane or haboob? Having a well-thought-out plan in place can help protect the health and safety of yourself and those for whom you care. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you develop an effective plan. Know your needs. If the person you care for has… Read more »
With the holiday season upon us, traveling is likely top of mind for many individuals and their families. However, those caring for someone with dementia may be wondering if traveling is a realistic option. The good news is that taking a dementia-friendly trip, while ensuring your loved one’s safety, comfort and enjoyment, is possible. Steps… Read more »
The Summer Olympic Games invited much joy into many households. Spectators witnessed inspiring athleticism in a myriad of sports generating nationwide awareness and sparking ideas on our individual approach to movement and physical activity. A recent study featured by the World Health Organization (June 2024) cited that 1.8 billion adults (31%) do not meet their… Read more »
I was waiting in line at the market recently and the cashier asked if I wanted bags. I replied that I had left my reusable ones in the hallway while running out in a hurry. The gentleman in line behind me said he leaves his bags in the car ready to go. I replied, “I usually… Read more »
One in three adults in the U.S. is an informal family caregiver for someone who is aging or has health issues,1 equating to 53 million unpaid caregivers.2 Providing part-time or full-time assistance to loved ones can be both challenging and stressful. Building a care team to provide support can help minimize feelings of overwhelm. The… Read more »
Recovering from surgery or a serious illness is a challenging journey. As an experienced nurse advocate, I have seen firsthand how advocacy can lead to better outcomes and a positive rehabilitation (rehab) experience. Here are some practical steps to help you, your loved one, or friend navigate this critical time effectively and safely. Know your… Read more »
Research shows that the chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) are more common in the summer. As heat and humidity rise, it is easier for germs or bacteria to grow, thus, not staying hydrated this time of year can increase the risk of developing a UTI. There are steps you can take to… Read more »
We see them so often we may take them for granted, but flags are essential to our waking and dreaming worlds. Their size, colors, shapes and designs communicate safety, caution, family lineage, social status, celebration and sometimes danger. Dreams are often a microcosm of our waking world, and like flags, also speak to us with… Read more »
The 50+ set is ready for exploration – hitting the roads, trails, waters and skies. From cross-continental bike trips through Africa to surfing school in Mexico, those in their 50s – 80s are stepping out of their comfort zone and looking for adventure (as Steppenwolf’s “Born to be Wild” plays in the background). The adventure… Read more »
“Only I can set her free; my inner child, the deepest part of me.” – Dr. Amy In 2004, when I wrote my doctoral dissertation, “Study of Attachment – The Impact of Early Attachment and Current Functioning Through Relational Models of Therapy,” I could not foresee the impact and importance this work would have in… Read more »
Alzheimer’s is a complex disease and recent breakthroughs in treatment are bringing hope to individuals affected by the disease and their families. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several new medications to help manage the symptoms or treat the disease. Following is an overview of each. Cholinesterase inhibitors such as Galantamine (Razadyne), Rivastigmine… Read more »
Publisher’s Note: We are very proud of Desert Health contributor Tracy Smith who just launched her first book, Moments of Divine Inspiration: 365 Daily Words for Self-Discovery, Transformation and Self-Love. Following is a page from the book which offers insights and practical tools to help readers “live a life of purpose, authenticity and love.” Prepare“The… Read more »
California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB) Palm Desert Campus is implementing an important class that teaches things not learned in books: intergenerational communication. The national program, called Sages and Seekers, brings seniors (sages) and students (seekers) together for one-on-one interaction, group discussions and collaborative activities in a structured and supportive environment. The eight-week pilot program,… Read more »
Socialization is important for everyone; but for those with dementia, it takes on an even more critical role. Socialization provides a controlled, yet varied experience of both human and environmental interaction. Some are intended to spark the senses, such as experiencing a new location or smelling fresh flowers in a garden. Others may involve exposure… Read more »