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Better Health While Aging

Practical information for aging health & family caregivers

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061 – Interview: Using Technology to Balance Safety & Autonomy in Dementia

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH 2 Comments

In This Episode:

Dr. K talks with Mary Hulme, geriatric social worker specialized in dementia and the co-author of “Caring from Afar: A Guide to Home Sensor Systems for Aging Parents.” They discuss:

  • How geriatric social workers help older adults and families
  • Why safety is no longer the automatic top priority in social work
  • How to use an older person’s goals when weighing safety versus autonomy
  • What is positive risk-taking in dementia
  • Why Mary likes home sensor systems
  • Features and options to consider when selecting a PERS system
  • GPS-enabled devices and options for tracking people with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia
  • Tips on discussing safety and location tracking with an older relative

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Better Health While Aging Podcast Tagged with: dementia, technology

048 – How Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Affects Most Aging Brains

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH 4 Comments

In This Episode:

Dr. K explains what to know about cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), a very common brain condition linked to cognitive decline, balance and walking problems, dementia, and other significant health issues. She covers:

  • Common terms used by radiologists to describe this condition, such as “white matter disease,””small vessel ischemia,” and others
  • What is cerebral SVD
  • What are the symptoms that can be caused by this condition
  • Risk factors and other potential causes for cerebral SVD
  • How to treat and prevent cerebral SVD
  • Why it’s not usually a good idea to request an MRI to check for this condition
  • What to do if you’re concerned about cerebral SVD for yourself or an older loved one

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Better Health While Aging Podcast Tagged with: brain health, dementia, falls, memory

044 – Hospice Medications & What to do if You’re Concerned

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH Leave a Comment

In This Episode:

Dr. K addresses a reader’s concerns about the morphine and lorazepam (brand name Ativan) that were given to her relatives with dementia, while on hospice. She covers:

  • Common end of life symptoms, and which symptoms are common in people with advanced Alzheimer’s
  • How morphine is usually used at the end of life, to manage problems such as pain and shortness of breath
  • Why it’s usually possible to use morphine to control symptoms without “hastening” death
  • Why it’s unclear that lorazepam should be used as often as it is, in hospice care
  • How to choose a good hospice provider
  • How to be proactive, to avoid problems and misunderstandings with the hospice team
  • What you can do, if you’re concerned about the care a loved one is receiving while on hospice

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Better Health While Aging Podcast Tagged with: Alzheimer's, dementia, end-of-life, hospice, medication safety

043 – How Hospice Helps at the End of Life, & Hospice for Alzheimer’s

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH 4 Comments

In This Episode:

Dr. K explains the basics of hospice care, with a special focus on hospice for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. She covers:

  • The difference — and relationship — between hospice and palliative care
  • What kind of services and benefits you can get through hospice
  • How hospice eligibility is determined by Medicare
  • The difference between severe Alzheimer’s disease and “terminal” Alzheimer’s
  • How to know when someone with Alzheimer’s might be eligible for hospice
  • Why some people with dementia “recover” and may be discharged from hospice
  • Common misconceptions people have about palliative care and hospice
  • Why hospice is a good choice for most patients and families facing the end of life

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Better Health While Aging Podcast Tagged with: Alzheimer's, dementia, end-of-life, hospice

026 – 4 Medications for Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias: FAQs & Tips

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH Leave a Comment

In This Episode:

Only four medications are FDA-approved for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Dr. K explains how they work and addresses frequently asked questions. She covers:

  • The two different categories of medication that are FDA-approved, and how they work to help people with dementia
  • The different stages of dementia, and how this relates to the FDA-approval of these drugs
  • How well these drugs work, and what families can expect
  • Common side-effects of these medications
  • Whether these medications work for mild cognitive impairment
  • When to consider stopping these medications
  • Which vitamins might also help treat Alzheimer’s disease
  • Practical tips for people considering these medications or already taking them

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Better Health While Aging Podcast Tagged with: Alzheimer's, dementia, medication, memory, mild cognitive impairment

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