by Ava Butler | Jun 2, 2021 | Assisted living, Caregiving, Covid-19, Dementia, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's
Many of our loved ones have compromised immune systems but we may be hesitant to ask if those around us are vaccinated. This article rightly points out that asking about vaccine status isn’t a question of etiquette but of public health, at work or in other situations...
by Ava Butler | May 18, 2021 | Caregiving, Dementia, Depression, Grieving, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's
Nora McInerny’s 15 minute Ted Talk highlights that we don’t move on from grief, we move forward with it. To me, this is an important observation and really resonates with me. Nora also has a podcast ‘Terrible, Thanks for Asking.’ NOTE: You...
by Ava Butler | May 12, 2021 | Assisted living, Caregiving, Dementia, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's
It is challenging to observe a loved one struggle during their senior years. Sometimes, older people can make adaptations in daily life to remain at home. However, when the efforts to sustain independent living are not enough, it may be time to consider assisted...
by Ava Butler | May 9, 2021 | Caregiving, Depression, Parkinson's
Caregiving is stressful and depressing. So is having Parkinson’s. The sugar-laden, high-fat foods we often crave when we are stressed or depressed, as comforting as they are, may be the least likely to benefit our mental health. This New York Times article...
by Ava Butler | Mar 14, 2021 | Dementia, Exercise, Lewy body dementia
Exercise can change how crucial portions of our brain communicate as we age, improving aspects of thinking and remembering, according to a fascinating new study of aging brains and aerobic workouts. Sedentary, older adults who took aerobic dance classes twice a week...
by Ava Butler | Jan 18, 2021 | Breathing, Caregiving, Dementia, Grieving, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's
Even four years after my husband’s passing, I still have trouble breathing. I still find myself holding my breath in an attempt to suppress the pain. This article is helpful and I will take its advice....
