Author: mikebarry123

Exercise Improves Memory | Millennium Memory Care

Couple Running with Dog
It is no secret that exercise has many benefits for both physical and mental well-being, and doctors have long been touting the value of aerobic exercise for both cardiovascular and brain health. Aerobic exercise has been shown to keep cognitive abilities from declining and reducing the risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Regular exercise is often credited with relieving stress, reducing risk of stroke, lowering blood sugar and improving balance and coordination. Scientists have also suggested that...
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Hearing Loss And Dementia New Insights | Millennium Memory Care

Woman and Hearing Aid
A slow loss of hearing ability is generally viewed as a normal and accepted part of aging. It is an unfortunate reality many of us will face as we get older. About two-thirds of Americans experience some hearing loss by the time they reach their 70s. It is perceived to be so inevitable that many do not seek any treatment or remedy for hearing loss. In fact, less than 15-20 percent of people diagnosed with hearing loss even use hearing aids. However, research is now increasingly pointing to li...
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How To Explain Dementia To A Child | Millennium Memory Care

Little boy telling a secret to his great grandmother
Dealing with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia is a challenge for both the patient and their loved ones. But even as you and your loved ones learn to come to terms with the diagnosis, don’t forget to keep the children in your life involved. While you may feel an impulse to protect children from the situation, trying to hide the truth could make things worse. Children are often keenly aware when adults around them are experiencing difficulty or stress. If they don’t understand the...
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Alzheimers Progression | Millennium Memory Care

Senior with caregiver
With Alzheimer’s disease now afflicting more than 5 million Americans, most people are familiar with the common characteristics of the disease which can begin as mild forgetfulness and progress to more serious symptoms such as difficulty with thinking, loss of language skills, mental confusion and severe memory loss. But a good deal of misunderstanding about the disease persists, including what causes the mental decline and how the brain is affected as Alzheimer’s progresses. Scientists st...
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Alzheimers Disease Stages | Millennium Memory Care

Brain with EKG Line
When an aging loved one starts getting forgetful, misplacing things or repeating questions, you might begin to wonder if this could be an indication of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. It is possible that these lapses are simply a normal part of aging or possibly signs of a mild cognitive impairment unrelated to Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. If these behaviors are a concern to you or your loved one, it is important to speak with your doctor in order to get an accurate diagnosis. Alzheimer’...
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Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease | Millennium Memory Care

Visiting Nurse
Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging for physicians to detect at an early stage if patients themselves do not recognize the warning signs or are reluctant to communicate their concerns. Often, it is family members or friends who observe signs of dementia even before the patient is aware they have a problem. There is still no definitive test for detecting Alzheimer’s disease, so a careful medical evaluation is needed to help lead to a diagnosis. In addition to physical exams and a review of ...
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Art Therapy For Dementia | Millennium Memory Care

Art Therapy at Holmdel
People often think art is for the elite, only important if created by one of The Masters, hangs in a museum, and is perfect.  This is incorrect.  Studies show that art, and making art, is important because it engages the mind, helps hand-eye coordination, and reduces anxiety and stress.  It’s a form of self-expression and communication.  Art is for everyone. The benefits that come from creating art are important for those with Alzheimer’s.   While it allows them to relax and enjoy the cre...
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Psychiatric Care or the Right Care?

young doctor comforting a sad senior man
By Galina Markovich Director, MMC In my 25 years of practice with geriatric populations suffering from dementia, I have learned that patience, proper timing of medications, close observation of immediate needs and an individualized approach are the keys to success in managing difficult cases of dementia. Families often ask me how we can manage 16 residents in one home, especially with so many having advanced dementia and exhibiting challenging behavior, when the family can’t even manage one ...
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Alzheimers Disease And Nutrition | Millennium Memory Care

Preparing Healthy Food
Good nutrition can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Patients may lose track of mealtimes, skip meals or simply eat or drink less than they used to. They may forget how to use utensils, not recognize certain foods, have difficulty chewing and swallowing, or lose their appetites due to medications or diminishing enjoyment of food. Poor nutrition can lead to increased agitation, unhealthy weight loss, weakness, lowered immunity and dehydration. Making meals h...
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Effects Of Yoga On The Brain | Millennium Memory Care

Portrait of the senior woman meditating on the seashore
The ancient practice of yoga that originated in India thousands of years ago is becoming increasingly popular today. Many people understand yoga to be a series of physical poses that promote flexibility. But practitioners of the ancient art know that yoga also builds muscle strength and tone, and improves posture, alignment, blood circulation, breathing and joint health. And the benefits go beyond the physical workout. The mind-body approach of yoga incorporates breathing and meditation techniqu...
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