Before we get started with the 5 Steps, I want to share a strong value I hold as a physician, but also as a human being. I believe when someone is sick, they should be given the information they need in order to understand the treatment options available to them. With this information they can […]
A change in the way the person is acting or behaving is one of the most common reasons a person living with dementia will be seen in the ER. This often looks like increased confusion, agitation, or the person speaking less and being more withdrawn than usual. We call this a change in mental status,
How to Troubleshoot Sudden Behavior Changes in Dementia in 6 Steps Read More »
Let’s kick this off by getting clear on what “Critical Care” actually means. To make it simple, I want you to think of this as care that will ultimately happen inside a hospital. It supports someone through an illness or condition which threatens their life or their body’s ability to function. Critical Care can and
Critical Care & Dementia: What Decision Makers Need to Understand Read More »
Before we get started, I want to make sure you are in the right place. This article is meant for you if you are making medical decisions on behalf of a person living with dementia and they did name a medical decision maker in a legal document such as a “Medical Power of Attorney” form.
Have a POA? How to get Dementia Families on the Same Page Making Medical Decisions. Read More »
Before we get started, I want to make sure you are in the right place. This article is meant for you if you are making medical decisions on behalf of a person living with dementia and they did not name a medical decision maker in a legal document such as a “Medical Power of Attorney”
No POA? How to get Dementia Families on the Same Page Making Medical Decisions Read More »
In my experience, almost every ER visit will fall under one of two categories. We’ll discuss both in this post. While you read, keep in mind, your person will be highly likely to face one, or both, of these overarching issues at some point in their life. First, let’s discuss falls. This is one of
Why People Living with Dementia Come to the ER Read More »
I often hear caregivers saying their persons’ dementia worsened after anesthesia. It is a common topic discussed inside support groups. Just like in text messages, online posts can leave a lot out. I have found myself wondering if the caregiver holds the belief that it was the anesthesia alone that made their person’s dementia worse.
ER physician’s opinion: How to think about anesthesia and dementia. Read More »
The answer is no. Absolutely not. Let’s talk about the concept of “hospital transfers.” I want to give you some things to think about and consider for your person. First, what does hospital transfer mean? When I use this term I am referring to your person physically leaving where they live and being brought to
Person Living with Dementia Values Quality of Life? Do they always need the hospital? Read More »
If you are wondering when is the right time, you are in good company. I want you to know there is no “right” time or reason to move your person. It is going to depend on the person and your unique situation. Some common reasons for a move are concern for the person’s safety, need
Is it Time to Move Your Person Living with Dementia? Read More »
If you missed last week’s post with tips 1-5 click here to get caught up. Tip #6 – Tell us your person has dementia. I know this may seem unnecessary. You might be thinking, but it’s in the record. You might be right. It could be listed there. It should be listed there. If your
Going to the ER with Someone Living with Dementia? – 10 Tips for less stress, part 2 Read More »
