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Peace of Mind Post November 2023
Shining a Light on Alzheimer’s Detecting Early Signs and Taking Action
Educate yourself. Learn about Alzheimer’s disease, its progression, and available resources. Knowledge will empower you to provide better care.
November marks a significant month for two important observances: National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it’s estimated that more than 6.5 million Americans age 65 and older live with this challenging disease, so these occasions draw attention to the critical issues of Alzheimer’s and the immense responsibilities of caregivers. The holiday season is synonymous with family gatherings and cherished transitions. For many, it’s a time to reconnect, share stories, and create lasting memories.
Confusion About Time or Place — People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of time, seasons, or locations. They may forget how they got to a specific place or not recognize where they are.
From my family to you and yours, happy Thanksgiving! I wish you a holiday filled with gratitude, joy, and cherished moments.
Communicate openly. Initiate honest conversations with your loved ones about
Trouble With Words or Conversations — This gut- wrenching disease can lead to difficulty finding the right words and joining or following conversations.
their condition and their
wishes for the future.
Create a support network. Engage other family members and friends in providing support. Caregiving can be demanding, and sharing responsibilities can alleviate the burden. Plan for the future. Work with your loved one to create a comprehensive care plan covering legal, financial, and health care aspects. This holiday season and throughout the year, let us recognize the resilience and dedication of all caregivers, advocate for a better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, and navigate the condition with love and compassion. Together, we can raise awareness, enhance care, and continue
However, when a loved one is grappling with Alzheimer’s or dementia, these gatherings can suddenly change. The closeness of family events and the holiday season can make it easier to notice significant differences in a family member’s behavior,
Mood and Personality Changes — Sudden shifts in mood, such as increased irritability, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities, can indicate Alzheimer’s.
cognition, or memory. While it can be unsettling to witness these changes, it’s crucial to approach them with understanding and empathy. Recognizing the Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Detecting it in its early stages is essential for early intervention and care planning. Here are some common early signs to watch for. Memory Loss — Frequent forgetfulness, especially of recently learned information, is a hallmark sign of Alzheimer’s. Individuals may ask the same questions repeatedly or struggle to recall important dates. Difficulty With Familiar Tasks — Simple tasks such as cooking, managing finances, or following a familiar recipe may become challenging for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
From Child to Caregiver When a family member shows signs of Alzheimer’s, roles within the family dynamic can quickly shift, and adult children may find themselves becoming a caregiver to a family member. This transition can be emotionally challenging and requires careful consideration, but I have some tips for managing this shift. Seek a diagnosis. If you suspect a family member has Alzheimer’s, encourage them to seek a medical diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for effective management.
the search for a cure for this devastating disease.
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Discussions surrounding estate planning, especially around the holidays, can be challenging but are crucial for ensuring your wishes are carried out and minimizing potential conflicts among family members. Having an open and honest conversation about estate planning can bring clarity, transparency, and peace of mind. Here are some tips to help you navigate this important topic. Initiate the discussion early. Start the estate planning conversation with your loved ones and family as soon as possible. Waiting until a crisis occurs may lead to snap decisions and added stress. Begin when everyone is in good health and sound mind, and ensure the discussion is not rushed. Choose the right setting. Picking a place that is comfortable, quiet, private, and free from distractions is key to ensuring everyone can focus on the conversation. Family rooms, dining rooms, and shaded outdoor patios are just a few suggestions for cozy environments. Be honest and open. Share your intentions, values, priorities, and specific wishes for your assets and legacy. It’s important for your loved ones to know these things now instead of scrambling to piece it all together later. Tips for Discussing Estate Planning With Starting the Con
You may have heard of “the seven wonders of the world,” but what you may not know is that the seven we know today are actually considered the “new” wonders of the world, replacements for their ancient predecessors, aptly named “the seven wonders of the ancient world.” So, you’re probably wondering, “Well, what happened to those ancient wonders?” The unfortunate answer is that all but one — the Great Pyramid of Giza — have been destroyed. Here’s what happened to the other six. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus — Bodrum, Turkey An earthquake sometime between the 11th and 15th centuries reduced the Mausoleum to rubble. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus — Western Turkey A man named Herostratus burned the temple down, hoping to become famous in history as a result. Hanging Gardens of Babylon — Hillah, Iraq Unfortunately, this ancient wonder never existed in any actual Babylonian records. It was likely a myth created by Roman and Greek authors. Statue of Zeus at Olympia — Olympia, Greece After the statue was dismantled and moved to Constantinople, a fire destroyed it in the 5th century. Colossus of Rhodes — Rhodes, Greece An earthquake around the year 225 B.C.E. toppled the statue, and in 654, when Arabs invaded Rhodes, they destroyed it and sold the metal for scraps. Lighthouse of Alexandria — Alexandria, Egypt This ancient wonder was yet another destroyed by a series of earthquakes between 956 and 1323. THE DISAPPEARANCE OF THE 7 WONDERS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD
Puzzle Time!
Answer:
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FEAST FACTS
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Listen actively. Encourage your family members to share their thoughts and concerns, and truly listen to their perspectives and address any questions or worries they may have. It’s essential to be empathetic, thorough, understanding, and respectful of your loved ones in this process. Explain your choices. Instead of just outlining your wishes, clearly communicate why you’ve made certain decisions in your estate plan. Whether it’s your choice of executor, asset allocation, or guardians for minor children, helping your loved ones understand your rationale can ease potential conflicts. Keep emotions in check. Stay calm and composed, and encourage family members to do the same. Avoid assigning blame or making accusatory statements. Keep in mind that estate planning conversations may take time and multiple discussions to reach a consensus and understanding. The key is to create an environment where everyone is heard and respected. Open and honest communication can lead to a well- crafted estate plan that reflects your desires and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
What Really Happened on the First Thanksgiving and More! Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday celebrated by millions across the U.S. It’s a time for families and friends to come together, share a hearty meal, and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. While you may be familiar with the basics of Thanksgiving, there are many other fascinating facts about this holiday you may not know. The First Thanksgiving The first Thanksgiving in 1621 was a three-day feast attended by 53 pilgrims and approximately 90 Native Americans. However, this Thanksgiving celebration looked a bit different — historians believe that venison, fowl, seafood, corn, and other local foods were on this first Thanksgiving menu! Turkey Traditions Turkey has been a centerpiece of Thanksgiving feasts for decades. President Abraham Lincoln is credited with establishing Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863, and it was at his request that turkey become a prominent symbol of the feast. It’s estimated that over 46 million turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving in the United States alone. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade The Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade in New York began in 1924. Originally, it featured live animals from Central Park Zoo, and the parade was only one block long. Fast forward to today, and the parade spans a 2.5-mile route and boasts massive balloons, intricate floats, and performances by top artists. Presidential Pardons The tradition of the president pardoning a turkey each year began with President Harry S. Truman in 1947. These “pardoned” turkeys are sent to live on farms rather than being served on a Thanksgiving table. Festive Football Frenzy Football has been intertwined with Thanksgiving since the late 1800s when Yale and Princeton played the first intercollegiate football game on Thanksgiving Day in 1876. The NFL has had a Thanksgiving Day tradition since 1920, with the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys hosting games each year.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Inspired by FeastingAtHome.com
Ingredients
•
2 cups butternut squash, cubed 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
• • •
1/4 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp nutmeg
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5 cups veggie or chicken stock 2 to 3 handfuls spinach 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 cups sliced leeks
4 garlic cloves, chopped
• •
8 sage leaves
1 cup Arborio rice
1/2 tsp salt
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. On a parchment-lined sheet pan, toss squash with 2 tbsp olive oil. Roast until tender (30 minutes) and set aside. 2. In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat and add leeks. Sauté until tender, then add garlic and sage. Sauté for 2 more minutes. 3. Add rice and sauté for 1 minute, stirring. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add 1–2 cups of stock to cover the rice and bring to a simmer. Cook until the liquid is absorbed. Continue to add broth 1 cup at a time, stirring occasionally until rice is plump (20 minutes). Stir in spinach, roasted squash, and Parmesan cheese.
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Inside 1
Tips for Families Dealing With Alzheimer’s or Dementia What Happened to the Original 7 Wonders of the World? 6 Tips for Navigating Discussions Surrounding Estate Planning Butternut Squash Risotto Digging Into Thanksgiving’s History and Traditions Pack These 4 Items for the Best In-Flight Experience
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Electrolytes Flying is dehydrating! Because Unconventional Items to Pack on Your Next Flight Elevate Your Travel Experience
Compression Socks Wearing compression socks on an airplane is crucial for maintaining healthy circulation during long flights. Prolonged periods of sitting can lead to blood pooling in your legs, causing swelling, poor circulation, and even deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Compression socks apply gentle pressure to your legs, reducing discomfort and circulation complications. Portable Charger While you may have remembered to pack your plug-in phone charger, bringing along a portable charger and power bank is a lifesaver! Sometimes, finding an available charging station in a crowded airport can be tricky. But having a backup power source on the plane makes it possible to keep your devices charged throughout your journey! When packing for your next flight, don’t forget to include these trip-saving items in your carry- on for a more pleasant travel experience — you’ll be glad you did!
airplane cabins are kept at a lower humidity level, your body dehydrates quicker than normal. To help keep your body hydrated without a dozen trips to the bathroom over the course of your flight, pack some electrolyte packets to mix into your water.
When preparing for your flight, it’s essential to pack the basics, such as clothing, medications, toiletries, and your travel documents. However, there
Speaking of water, pack an empty water bottle with you, and after passing through security, you can fill it up at a water fountain!
Noise-Canceling Headphones Flights can be noisy. You can never predict crying babies, loud talkers, or hyper kids traveling alongside you. Noise-canceling headphones can provide a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the airplane. They block out ambient noise and allow you to relax, listen to music, or enjoy in-flight entertainment without any distractions.
are some surprising and often overlooked items that can greatly
enhance your flying experience. These unexpected additions in your carry-on can make your air travel experience more comfortable, enjoyable, and stress-free.
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