Neurological Disorders

Alzheimer's Disease

Emotional Impacts Latest News

Ten Things to Do When a Loved One Is Dying - [02/20/08]

Summary: Handling the needs of a dying family member or friend is a difficult task for which most people are not adequately prepared. To help, the Institute for Healthcare Advancement (IHA) offers a list of 10 steps that can help organize and ease the process.

Comment: The process of dying is complex for friends and family members who have to sort through legal, medical, and emotional issues, even as they try to support their loved one. By providing a systematic approach, this logical guide offers a way to cope.

Read article - Institute for Healthcare Advancement. February 20, 2008.

Family Conflict and Alzheimer's Disease - [12/21/07]

Summary: It is common for family members to struggle and disagree as they deal with their loved one's diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. To minimize these conflicts, families should address key issues together.

Comment: This article from Mayo Clinic staff suggests how families can resolve or minimize family conflicts as they care for a family member with Alzheimer's disease.

Read article - Mayo Clinic. December 21, 2007.

Good Life with Alzheimer's Disease - [12/03/07]

Summary: People with Alzheimer's disease and their family members can enjoy life in spite of the disease.

Comment: This thought is expressed in statements from early-stage patients and their caregivers in a short, reassuring article.

Read article - Mayo Clinic. December 3, 2007.

Silver Lining to Transferring Care - [11/16/07]

Summary: It is difficult to decide when to move a family member with dementia to a care facility. But one bright side is the opportunity to revert from the role of caregiver to family member.

Comment: This short article offers encouragement and support to caregivers.

Read article - Mayo Clinic. November 16, 2007.

Alzheimer's Complicates Romance - [11/14/07]

Summary: People need companionship, even those in assisted living or a nursing home. But relationships can be complicated for couples when one partner has Alzheimer's disease.

Comment: This article discusses the feeling of resentment, abandonment, and betrayal that can complicate such a relationship.

Read article - msnbc.com. November 14, 2007.