loved ones, looking through old photos, or taking walks with those close to the patient create meaningful moments and strengthen emotional bonds. Utilize Technology Technology is a great resource for helping patients keep in touch with loved ones. Skype or FaceTime allow Alzheimer’s patients to see and interact with family and friends who may live far away, and there are apps for the elderly that assist with providing mental stimulation. Create a Routine Establishing a consistent routine can help Alzheimer’s patients feel more secure and comfortable and make interactions less intimidating. Schedule regular social activities at the same time each day or week for predictability, which can reduce anxiety and make the patient more willing to participate. Encourage Hobbies or Interests
HARD WORK VS. OVERWORK Lessons From the Farm on Work Ethic As we grow up, we are always taught that hard work pays off, but how much work is too much? It’s tough to draw that line. Aug. 5 is National Work Like a Dog Day, a day on the calendar intended to celebrate a strong work ethic and the determination to get the job done. My upbringing on the farm shaped my work ethic. There, hard work was necessary, and the animals depended on us for their care. From a young age, I was tasked with feeding the animals, cleaning stalls (super fun), and handling various manual labor tasks. Taking care of farm animals taught me many lessons about paying attention to details. Each animal had specific needs that required careful attention. Whether it was feeding time, exercise routines, or health checks, their needs always came first. The animals don’t understand holidays or work hours ending at 5 p.m. — caring for them was a full-time job. The lessons from hard work have carried over into my career today. In my professional life, I approach tasks with the same attention to detail and commitment to getting things done right. Like on the farm, where the work never truly ended, my career is not confined to a typical 9–5 schedule. However, striking a balance is important. While a strong work ethic drives success, enjoying life outside work is just as critical. Finding this balance means knowing when to push hard and when to step back and recharge. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging, especially when your career is demanding. It requires setting boundaries, managing time effectively, and sometimes saying no to additional work that may lead to burnout. It’s about finding moments to relax and unwind, much like taking a break from the farm chores to enjoy the tranquility of nature. So, here’s to acknowledging the importance of a strong work ethic while embracing the necessity of balance! After all, you can’t give it 100% 24/7 — we all need time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of our labor!
Are there any hobbies or interests that the Alzheimer’s patient enjoyed before the onset of the disease? When adapted to their current abilities, these activities can help them stay active with others who also enjoy these hobbies!
Remember: The goal is to help Alzheimer’s and dementia patients stay active and socially engaged to enhance their quality of life! Whether it’s through group activities, light walks with
family members, or painting with friends, there are many ways to help patients maintain connection and a social life.
Legendary Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
• 4 bell peppers (any color), halved and seeded • 1 lb ground beef • 1 onion, diced • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1 tsp chili powder • 1 tsp cumin
• 1 14-oz can
diced tomatoes • 1 cup cooked rice • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. Line a baking dish or baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the bell pepper halves in the baking dish. 3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned, then drain excess fat. 4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, diced tomatoes, rice, salt, and pepper. 5. Fill the 8 bell pepper halves with the beef mixture, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese. 6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
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