RS
Protecting Sleep for Alzheimer’s Caregivers and Patients
HERE’S WHY IT’S ACTUALLY ABOUT PEACE OF MIND Think Estate Planning Is Scary? Every October, a week is set aside to highlight something many of us put off far longer than we should, estate planning, and this year, Estate Planning Awareness Week is Oct. 20–26. Before you roll your eyes and think, “That’s depressing,” hear me out. Estate planning doesn’t have to be scary, complicated, or reserved for people with sprawling mansions and yachts. In fact, it’s about peace of mind, clarity, and protecting the people you love most. One of the largest myths floating around is that writing a will somehow tempt fate. People joke that signing those papers is like putting one foot on a banana peel, surely the end must be right around the corner. But here’s the truth: There is zero evidence that drafting a will or setting up an estate plan has anything to do with when you’ll pass away. What it does do is give you control and confidence, ensuring your wishes are respected no matter what life throws your way. Think of estate planning as answering three simple but powerful questions: 1. Who should make medical decisions for you if you can’t speak for yourself? 2. Who should handle financial matters if you’re temporarily unable to? 3. What do you want to happen with your belongings, home, and legacy when the time comes? Estate planning is less about paperwork and more about making thoughtful choices ahead of time. Once those choices are written down, you and your loved ones can breathe easier knowing you have a clear plan. Another common misconception is that estate planning is only for the wealthy. The reality is that if you own anything, a car, a savings account, or a houseplant your sister’s already called dibs on, you have an “estate.” Planning just means you get to decide what happens, instead of leaving your loved ones to guess or, worse, letting the courts decide. Estate Planning Awareness Week is the perfect reminder to check this off your to-do list. It’s not about gloom and doom. It’s about empowerment. With a little thought and a small investment of time, you can create a plan that reflects your values, safeguards your family, and saves everyone from unnecessary stress down the road.
The truth is simple: Well-rested caregivers are healthier, more focused, and better equipped to manage the unique challenges of Alzheimer’s care. Prioritizing sleep isn’t selfish. It’s an act of care for yourself and the person you love. Here are five strategies caregivers have found helpful. Establish a routine. Consistency helps the patient and caregiver. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can reinforce natural sleep cycles. Create a restful environment. Keep the bedroom quiet, cool, and dark. Soft lighting and safe spaces can reduce confusion or wandering risks for patients who wake in the night. Share the load. If possible, ask family, friends, or respite services to take a night shift so you can catch up on rest. Even short breaks can make a difference. Wind down together. Gentle evening activities, like listening to calm music or doing simple stretches, can soothe the caregiver and patient, signaling it’s time for rest.
Seek support. If sleep challenges become overwhelming, talk to a health care provider. Sometimes, small adjustments in daily routines, medication timing, or professional respite care can ease the burden.
Apple Upside- Down Cake
Inspired by IHeartEating.com
Ingredients
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Topping • 1/4 cup unsalted butter • 1/2 cup light brown sugar • 3 Honeycrisp apples Cake • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt • 3/4 cup milk • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 large egg
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. In a 9-inch round cake pan, add butter for topping. Place in oven for a few minutes until melted. 3. Sprinkle brown sugar over melted butter. 4. Cut apples into half circles about 1/4-inch thick (no need to peel) and arrange them in circles, overlapping slightly until they fill the entire pan. Set aside. 5. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. 6. Add milk, melted butter, vanilla, and egg. Whisk until combined. 7. Pour batter over apple slices, smoothing as needed. 8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 9. Let cool to room temperature, invert on a plate, and serve.
3 724.256.8850
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator