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Have you ever heard the phrase, “you can’t pour from an empty cup”? Many times, caregivers are so wrapped up in providing care for others that they neglect caring for themselves. According to the National Institute on Aging, caregivers are more likely to have physical and emotional health problems,
Memory Cafés A Memory Café is a warm, welcoming environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. They are designed to include family members and caregivers as well (if they are involved), for a shared experience. Additionally, they can be helpful for people with all forms of mild cognitive impairment. They are a place to talk with others who understand what you are going through, to forget your limitations and instead focus on strengths, socialize, and explore something new. All cafés have a shared goal – to help guests feel comfortable and to know that they are not alone. Let It Be – Memory Café is hosting a virtual concert series, each month a different local band or musical will come and provide musical entertainment for your enjoyment! The next café will be Sunday January 16 , 2022, from 1:00–2:00pm via Zoom (click here) Zoom Meeting ID: 869 9389 8633 Passcode: 225829 Contact: Marven Page – (520) 477-2389 or MPage@ichd.net
the risk of which heightens when adding holiday stressors. Some common signs of stress are a change in eating or sleeping habits, difficulty concentrating, fatigue or restlessness and irritability. If any of this sounds familiar, it may be time to hit pause and evaluate what you can do to care for yourself. While self-care is one of the most important things you can do as a caregiver it can be difficult to prioritize in the midst of caring for others. Staying connected with family and friends, focusing on your mental and physical health, engaging in relaxing or entertaining activities and creating a calming, pleasant environment are some ways to self-care. Where does self-care start when you are living with memory loss? Whether you have a care partner living with you or you are living alone, a support system is vital. Engaging socially is important, whether it is getting together for coffee, talking on the phone, video chatting or attending a Memory Café. Being able to stay connected with your support system and focus on things that are not dementia related is essential. Activities, movement, and exercise can be beneficial for both a caregiver and person living with dementia. Research suggests that a delay or slowing decline in thinking skills, reduced stress, and increased symptoms of depressions may result from mild-to- moderate activity. Going for short walks, doing a puzzle, listening to a podcast, or painting are all things that you can try to both engage your body and mind. It is important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to feel about what is happening. Creating a support system and space for you and your loved one to be safe and cared for will help you as you go through this journey.
Memory concerns? Call the PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262 or visit our website to complete a referral form online https://www.pcoa.org/dementiareferral/
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Pima Council on Aging
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