Shorter days and colder weather can bring more than just a chill. They can intensify feelings of sadness, fatigue, and irritability. For caregivers and individuals living with Alzheimer’s, these changes can be particularly challenging as they can affect routines, patience, and emotional connection. Recognizing seasonal depression and taking proactive steps can make the winter months more Caregivers may feel unusually exhausted, irritable, or disconnected from daily tasks. These aren’t normal “bad days”; they can be early signs of seasonal depression. For individuals with Alzheimer’s, symptoms may include withdrawal, increased confusion, or restlessness. Identifying these patterns early is crucial for maintaining well- being on both sides. manageable for everyone involved. Signs to Be on the Lookout For NAVIGATING W Seasonal Depression for Alzheim
Tiny Pup, Big Hero
Trailblazing Chihuahua Led Searchers to Lost Owner
When 85-year-old Barbara Crosby went missing in the California wilderness, no one expected her travel companion, her loyal dog Pancho, would become her savior. Spotted by residents in the area, the adventurous pup led rescuers straight to his owner, navigating a steep embankment that could have spelled disaster. The pair went missing on an early Saturday morning when Barbara, who has dementia, wandered away from her senior living home with the Chihuahua mix. Search and rescue teams immediately began to look for the at-risk adult but saw no sign of her throughout the day. As they were about to pack up for the night, multiple residents reported that they had spotted Pancho in the area. Thanks to details from these glimpses of the would-be hero, rescue crews could pinpoint Pancho’s travel path, which led down a 70-foot steep embankment off the road. After hiking to the bottom, they found him hiding under some brush and followed him to where Barbara lay sleeping nearby. Due to the rugged terrain, the team had to utilize a litter and rope system to lift Barbara to safety
Supportive Routines to Consider Consistency can help counteract seasonal mood changes. Short walks in natural light, structured
sleep schedules, and brief self-care breaks can provide relief for caregivers. Individuals
and promptly take her to a nearby hospital. Though she was no longer in harm’s way, the crews couldn’t stop to celebrate too long. Pancho pulled a hound-ini act and ran off before rescuers could lift him out. Residents spotted the runaway dog the next day, just a short distance away. Dehydrated and exhausted from the ordeal, Pancho was taken to a veterinarian for treatment and is back to his old self. The county sheriff’s office recognized Pancho’s life-saving act in a special thank-you online, stating that his “loyalty and presence near Barbara’s location helped lead us to her, truly the unsung hero of this rescue.” They also thanked the search and rescue crews and
the community members who shared their Pancho sightings. This Chihuahua’s keen instincts guided rescuers through tricky terrain, proving heroes come in all sizes. Thankfully, this duo’s adventure ended in tail wags and plenty of treats.
Puzzle Time!
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