Tune Up Your Brain, Tune Up Your LIfe

Tune Up Your Brain, Tune Up Your Life

For the past 9 days I've been blogging about Dr. Arnold Bresky's "Nine Point Brain Tune Up System." Now, you'll have an opportunity to ask him personal questions. Dr. Bresky will be my guest tomorrow at Noon EST (9:00AM PST): www.blogtalkradio.com/sandra-haymon.

Dr. Bresky will answer such questions as:
What is our number one fearn as we age.
What is memory and what are the different types of memory?
What causes Alzheimer's disease?
What are the statistics related to BAby Boomers and Alzheimer's disease?
What are the three primary causes of memory disorders?
What are the four pillars of brain health?
What is neurogenesis and neuroplasticity?
What is cognitive reserve?
What is Whole Person Centered Care?
What is the Dr. Bresky "Nine Point Tune Up System?
What are the two biomarkers of aging?
What is the new medical paradigm for the aging population?

Be sure to tune in as Dr. Bresky discusses the notion that it is not how long you live, but how well you live. He will also discuss how to protect your brain.

I truly hope you will join us tomorrow. Remember---Memory is life!

Sincerely,
Sandra--Caregiver Guru for the Caregive Generation. www.BabyBoomersSandwich.com

www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Kindness -- Point #9

Here's Point #9 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System.

Kindness

Just as fun and laughter lifts our spirits, so do acts of kindness and generosity.

Take a few minutes during the course of each day to do something simple and kind for another.

You will not only make a positive impact in their life, but also your own.

Smile at a stranger who looks down, let a car in front of you on the freeway, give someone a sincere compliment.

Try it and see how performing simple acts of kindness improves your own mental outlook and disposition!

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest scientific research and ways to incorporate kindness into your everyday life.

I hope you've enjoyed these Brain Tune Ups, and find value in them. Also, it couldn't hurt to try them and see if you improve!

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Brain Exercises & Art Rx -- Point #8

Here's Point #8 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System

Brain Exercises & Art Rx

There’s growing evidence that the brain is like the body—you either use it or lose it!

Both brain exercises and art Rx stimulate the brain. Brain exercises such as crossword puzzles stimulate the left hemisphere of the brain.

Art Rx stimulates both hemispheres of the brain. Art Rx is not traditional art therapy, art or drawing art.

Art Rx asks you to draw an object, break that object down mechanically and logically, and then redraw the object.

Doing so causes cross-firing between the left and right hemisphere of the brain, accelerating the generation of new brain cells.

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest scientific research and original Brain Tune Up® activities.

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Care Gier Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Hydration -- Point #7

Here's Point #7 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System.

Hydration

Water is the Fountain of Youth! Proper hydration is vital to body and brain health.

Drinking at least six 8 oz. servings of water daily helps flush toxins from body tissues.

Most people are unaware that Myelin, a brain tissue, is easily destroyed by a build up of toxins.

For the health of your body and your brain make sure you drink enough water to keep your tissues toxin-free and well-hydrated!

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest research and ways to incorporate proper hydration into your everyday life.

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
www.BabyBoomersSandwich.com www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Eating Plan -- Point #6

Here's Point #6 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System.

Eating Plan

The Brain Tune Up® Eating Plan—Based on the Mediterranean diet.

Dr. Bresky recommends we eat fresh, seasonal foods low in fat and high in omega 3’s.

The Mediterranean diet can lower the risk of serious cognitive impairment by 40%. Omega 3’s help retain Myelin brain tissue.

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest research and recipes to enjoy the Brain Tune Up® Eating Plan.

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for he Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Physical Exercise -- Point #5

Here'[s Point #5 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System

Physical Exercise

We all know that optimal physical health is a necessity.

There are many different ways to achieve this, no matter what our age or current physical condition.

Even 9 minute intervals of exercise done 3 times a day will significantly improve physical health.

Physical exercise improves circulation and proper blood flow insures health and vitality in all areas of the body, including the brain.

When we exercise, growth hormones cause stem cells in the brain to grow. As always, check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine.

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest research and ways to enjoy physical exercise.

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Just LIsten -- Dr. Mark Goulston

Just Listen

I just interviewed Dr. Mark Goulston (blogtakradio.com/sandra-haymon), best selling author of Just Listen, Get Out of Your Own Way, and Get Out of Your Own Way at Work.

What a treat!!! Not only does Dr. Goulston share empowering information, he is genuine, caring, and easy to listen to. I highly recommend his book Just Listen to anyone who wants to communicate in ways that help others make positive changes in their lives.

In Just Listen Dr. Goulston offers the following techniques, which he says "take just minutes, but they can change the course of a business project, a sale, a relationship, or even a life."

* Do You Really Believe That?

* The Power of Hmmm...

* The Stipulation Game.

* The Impossibility Question.

* The Power Thank You.

I will blog more about these later, but if you want to learn more now--

go to http://www.markgoulston.com/.

Dr. Goulston also offers free resources, coaching videos, and lots more!!

Sincerely,

Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Sleep -- Point #4

Here's Point #4 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System.

Sleep

Getting 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep is essential for the brain to go into deep REM sleep.

During REM the brain heals itself and memories form.

People who are sleep deprived have impaired cognitive function.

Did you know a sleep deprived person is as dangerous behind the wheel as someone who has had too much to drink?

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest scientific research and ways to make sure you get plenty of sleep.

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Get Thru to Absolutely Anyone!

Get Thru to Absolutely Anyone!!

Ever tried to get through to others by using logic, flattery, forcefulness, pleading, screaming...yet felt that you were not being heard?

My special guest, Dr. Mark Goulston, psychiatrist and author of "Just Listen" and "Get Out of Your Own Way at Work and Help Others Do The Same," will reveal the "secret" to getting through to absolutely anyone.

Dr. Goulston will discuss how to be so effective in your communications that others actually make positive changes in their lives.

Dr. Goulston explains that his methods succeed because they create "traction" rather than "resistance".

He reveals ways to pull others toward you even when they are trying to pull away. You won't want to miss this episode as Dr. Goulston discusses the reality that it is not what we tell others but what we enable them to tell us that makes a difference--a difference which includes "positive change."

Join us Tuesday, 6/22/10 @ Noon EST. blogtalkradio.com/sandra-haymon
See you on the radio!
Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
www.BabyBoomersSandwich.com www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Tunes Rx--Point #3

Here's Point #3 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System

Tunes Rx

Once thought of simply as entertainment, music is now being recognized as a vital cognitive tool. When utilized properly, music can enhance our ability to learn, uplift our spirits, and calm us when we’re stressed or agitated.

Dr. Bresky recommends certain musical selections to uplift and others to calm.

He also recommends we listen to whatever music brings us pleasure for a few minutes during the course of each day.

Doing so elevates our mood and energy level—and we all want elevated moods and energy levels!

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest scientific research and musical selections proven to provide various types of therapies.

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Relaxation, Meditation & Prayer--Point #2

Here's point #2 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune up System.

Relaxation, Meditation & Prayer

Relaxation, Meditation and Prayer—Chronic stress shrinks the hippocampus, the area of the brain associated with memory. It also produces cortisol, which blocks glucose from the brain. Deep breathing exercises relax both the mind and body.

Set aside time each day to breathe deeply and commune with your inner self and higher power.

This centers you and helps you deal with daily stresses.

However you choose to relate to your creative source, Dr. Bresky recommends you do so for a few minutes when you wake and before you retire.

When practiced, this point of the doctor’s program alone will dramatically improve your overall health and well-being, as well as your ability to think clearly.

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest scientific research and various methods to achieve Relaxation, Meditation & Prayer.

Sincerely,

Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

www.BabyBoomersSandwich.com www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Fun & Laughter--Brain Improvement Point #1

Here's Point #1 from Dr. Arnold Bresky's Brain Tune Up System.

Fun and Laughter

Just as adequate sleep is a necessity, not a luxury, so is fun and laughter! Many of us don’t realize how crucial it is to enjoy ourselves during the course of each day.

Enjoying ourselves and laughing releases endorphins in our brain and elevates our mood. It also improves our immune system and opens blood vessels in our brain.

A sense of humor helps us deal with the challenges life throws our way.

By signing up for the Brain Tune Up® Clubhouse, you will have full access to Dr. Bresky’s 9 Pt. System including the latest scientific research and ways to be sure you incorporate enough fun and laughter in your everyday life.

Sincerely,
Sandra-Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
Http://www.BabyBoomersSandwich.com www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Brain Tune Up System--Dr. Arnold Bresky

I host an Internet radio show, Baby Boomers' Sandwich, every Tuesday at Noon EST, and I absolutely have the most interesting guests. On June 29th. Dr. Arnold Bresky will be my guest. He is a most facinating man who is always on the cutting edge.

He has a new TV show and a new website featuring his Brain Tune Up® System and his new Clubhouse. Here's one of his tips listed on his website:www.mybraintuneup.com/clubhouse

"Take charge of your health! You have to believe in self-care with behavioral lifestyle changes and not just quick fixes. Remember the 4 basic pillars of brain health are: 1. Physical Activity, 2. Mental Activity, 3. Social Activity, 4. Good Cardiovascular Health. Each one of the 9 Points fits into one of these areas."

I will be sharing Dr. Bresky's 9 points over the next 9 days. According to Dr. Bresky, whether you are a baby boomer and just want to keep your brain sharp, or whether you already have memory loss and cognitive decline--his 9 point system can help anyone improve.

Here's another brain tip from Dr. Bresky.

" Not finding this week's Point 1 Fun and Laughter choices funny? Well it's hard to tickle everyone's funny bone everytime. Or maybe you just need a little more to get your 9+ hearty laughs today. Do you have any old comedy videos tucked away that make you chuckle? Are there comics in your morning newspaper that make you giggle when you read them? And don't forget that you can always just start laughing, which may inspire others to join in. The important thing is that you can't be depressed when you are laughing. Laughter truly is the best medicine!"

Hope you enjoy his tips as much as I do. Plus, I find implementing them to be beneficial.
Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.Youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Internet Summit - Los Angeles

My husband and I are off to an Internet summit in Los Angeles early this morning. Twelve of the world's most renown Internet gurus will share their knowledge with those of us priviledged enough to attend. (http://www.dreamstorealitysuccesssummit.com/).

It begins on Friday. I realize this is short notice, but if you are in the area and would like to attend, you can come as my guest. Use code VIP47 when you register.

Tracy Repchuck is my Recurring Riches for Life Coach. She is also the bestselling author of 31 Days to Millionaire Marketing Miracles, and will be one of the presenters. She is an amazing woman with an incredible story.

If you want to turn your Passion into Profits - you can get your free report at: http://www.millionairemarketingmiracles.com/

Sincerely,

Sandra--Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

An Aging Well Tip--The Great Paradox

A few months ago I joined the National Speaker's Assoction-AZ, and as a candidate, I get to learn from the best of the best. Here's a great article from a member of NSA-AZ, Beth S. Cole. Beth can be reached at:

http://www.beth-cole.com/ or www.agingwellcoach.com/ .

An Aging Well Tip--The Paradox

A Great paradox--efforting coexisting with ease.

This may be one of the most perplexing of life’s mysteries – learning to relax in the midst of great exertion. Many of us feel that we have to do one or the other: take it easy OR give it our all. Doing both at the same time can be a difficult concept to internalize. I know for sure that the two opposites need to coexist within us. Many secrets lie in understanding how to be completely at ease when boring full speed ahead. When we recognize this dichotomy – when we adjust to what at first seems like a contradiction, we can achieve more satisfactorily, be efficient and pursue our goals with elegance.

I had my first AHA! moment about this topic in 1988. I have always loved competitive sports and while watching the Olympics that year I saw an amazing performance by sprinter Florence Joyner (also known as “Flo-Jo”). She finished the 100 meter race about 3/10 of a second ahead of her nearest rival and as she glided across the finish line, she was smiling, calm, and totally in the moment. She was running faster than any woman ever had and yet she appeared to be totally relaxed. She exerted as much as she could while still staying “loose.” It was obvious even on the television screen that she had mastered this technique. I thought it was a miracle and I truly wanted to replicate that in my life.

I didn’t though. I kept up my frenzied life of working long hours, being ambitious, trying to be a “supermom” to my three girls. In the midst of all the busyness, I rarely felt relaxed. I loved what I did in those days so I enjoyed my life but I constantly PUSHED.

It has taken many years for me to see the value of this challenge.

I can still find it difficult more than I would like to let go in a moment of concentration or intense work. Yet when I do, I always seem to find a special gift, which often is discovery of an easier and better way to do a task.

Wise men and women have been advising us for centuries to surrender. They have written about finding the ease in the midst of tension and then feeling the joy in a significant release.

I just wanted to write a reminder for you and me.

Beth S. Cole

Thank you Beth. I needed to be reminded of this Truth!

Sincerely,

Sandra--Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.comsandrawhaymon

Ethical Decision Making

Remember to join me and Viki Kind today @ Noon EST blogtalkradio.com/sandra-haymon as we discuss ethical decision making for family & professional caregivers."

Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
www.babyboomerssandwich.com www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Fear of Death Among the Elderly--Part Two

I believe that the difference between Heaven and Hell is not so much the climate as the company. Living in a world populated by people like themselves would, for many be Heaven. And for others, it would indeed be Hell.

(Richard Paul Evans)

It is common for elderly folks to ask others what they believe about death. Often these types of questions are veiled attempts to clarify their own beliefs.

A good way to help elderly loved ones gain clarification is to turn the question back to them or ask these or other self-discovery questions.

For example, you might ask these or similar questions: "What have you been taught about an afterlife?" "What do you hope happens after death?" "What have you envisioned it might be like after death?" "Is there some thought about death that brings you comfort?" "Where do you turn for strength?"

Views about death itself and spiritual life after death depend largely on cultural and/or religious teachings, as well as individual frameworks.

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver uru for the Caregiver Genertion

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Care-grieving and Kind Ethics

Are you experiencing care-grieving?

Please join me Tuesday, June 15, 2010 @ Noon EST: www.blogtalkradio.com/sandra-haymon. Viki Kind will be my guest. Viki is a clinical bioethicist, medical educator, hospice volunteer and the author of: The Caregiver’s Path to Compassionate Decision Making – Making Choices for Those Who Can’t.

If you are a caregiver for an elderly loved one, how would you answer these questions?
1. Does your loved one have the ability to make his or her own decisions?
2. Based on past conversations, do you know what your loved one would want in various medical situations?
3. How can you keep your elderly loved one included in ways that are safe for her/him to participate?

Wouldn't it be a relief to know that you are making decisions your loved one would want?

Join me and Viki as we discuss ways caregivers can be empowered to make appropriate, kind and ethical decisions.

We will look at ways families and healthcare professionals might be guided through the process of making decisions for those who are losing or have lost capacity to make decisions for themselves.

We will also discuss Viki's adaptable system for making difficult choices, including end-of-life decisions, while respecting the individual's values and beliefs. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution but can be adapted depending on the person's level of incapacity and the situation.

Who should listen? Any and everyone caring for elderly loved ones, especially those diagnosed with Alzheimer's (or other types of dementia), strokes, brain injuries, mental illness, developmental delays or other mental limitations will benefit from listening to this episode.

Listeners will learn the decision-making pathway and tools to help give voice to those who can't speak for themselves.

Listeners will also learn specific strategies, questions to use, and how these tools will work in real life situations.

Respect and compassion are the core values of this decision-making process.

Whether you a professional caregiver or a family caregiver, you will come away feeling more knowledgeable and confident about making decisions for those in your care.

As Viki would say: "Have a kind and respectful day."
Sincerely,
Sandra-Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Fear of Death Among the Elderly--Part One

The worst of all fears is the fear of living.

(Theodore Roosevelt)

Many individuals are terribly afraid to let go of the known and move into a realm of the unknown.

Fears about death itself vary according to individual frameworks. However, common fears have to do with the afterlife.

Many report fearing the unknown and what may or may not await them

If that is an expressed fear of elderly loved ones, this might also be an indirect request to see family members they haven't seen for a long time.

When folks know their time is limited, they are sometimes willing to take emotioal risks they have avoided in the past.

You, as a caregiver, might ask if there's anyone they've been thinking about or anyone they'd like to see.

Some might ask to see or talk with a family member they haven't seen in a while or an old lover or friend from their school years.

Some report having "dream visits" from individuals they long to see or perhaps have unfinished business with.

Some fear talking about death will somehow speed the process. This, of course is not true.

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregivier Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Caregiver's Path to Compassionate Decision Making

Please join me Tuesday, June 15, 2010 @ Noon EST: www.blogtalkradio.com/sandra-haymon . Viki Kind will be my special guest. Viki is a clinical bioethicist, medical educator, hospice volunteer and the author of The Caregiver’s Path to Compassionate Decision Making – Making Choice for Those Who Can’t.

Here's a recent article Vicki wrote which I hope you will find as inspiring as I did.

"Sometimes as caregivers, we try to protect the person in our care and to stay strong for everyone else in the family. We pretend that nothing is wrong even in the midst of very difficult situations. This isolates us—and our loved ones even more.

Instead, reach out and begin talking about how each of you is coping. Allow the person to share his or her emotions, even the loud and scary emotions. Be still and listen with your full attention. Turn off the phone and the television.

Be present with your loved one’s suffering because as you listen, you help the person heal. Then it will be your turn to speak your truth. Your fears and concerns are not a burden to your family but something that everyone is thinking and too afraid to speak out loud.

If your loved one’s medical condition has begun to worsen, or the process of dying has begun, ask what your loved one would like to have happen. Include the individual in every way you can think of so he or she can retain some sense of control and power.

Imagine how hard it must be to know that your mind is going or to feel your body changing right before your eyes. Even though you can’t control what is happening, one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved one is to hear his or her needs and wishes. And then, each time you have to make a decision or to talk about life and medical choices, remember to start from your loved ones perspective.

I realize that watching your loved one suffer is difficult for you, the caregiver, but keep in mind how difficult it is for your loved one. Perhaps you can be a little more patient or a little more respectful.

Maybe before you lash out in frustration with the person you are caring for, you can stop, catch your breath and try to be more understanding, compassionate and kind. I know you are human and you can’t be nice all the time.

I know I have been frustrated and less than loving at times when taking care of my family members. But I also know we can strive to be better—not perfect, but better. It’s not easy, but we can choose to do a little better every day.

Have a kind and respectful day.
viki@kindethics.com "

I do hope you'll join us for this most enlightening episode.
Sincerely,
Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Helping Elderly Loved Ones Reduce Internal Unrest.

Comedy is tragedy plus time.

(Carol Burnette)

Research suggests humor (watching funny movies, funny television programs, or re-runs of funny episodes) and laughing releases endorphins that reduce pain and boost the immune system as well as offer individuals a heightened sense of well-being.

Other practices that might be beneficial in reducing internal unrest include relaxation techniques, listening to relaxing/classical music, reading, meditating, chanting, praying, Shamanic treatments, herbal remedies, acupuncture, exercising, massages, and getting sunlight and fresh air.

Caregivers might also encourage elderly loved ones to so whatever they need to do in order to make amends or complete unfinished business in order to attain the peace they desire.

The Greek origin of the word "crisis" connotes opportunity and possibility. So it is with the final stage of life. Regardless of an individual's religious, spiritual, or philosophical framewwork, spiritual growth is possible for almost everyone, right up to the end of life.

Spiritual growth does not, however, necessarily diminish pain and suffering.

It has been suggested that unresolved issues and fear are the two most important factors in determining the level of resistance individuals will experience when facing death.

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Helping Elderly Loved Ones Find Value and Meaning--Part Three

The average man (woman) does not know what to so with his/her life,

yet wants another one that will last forever.

(Anatole France)

When some people become unable to participate in physical activities, they focus their energy, time, and atention on spiritual matters and personal reflection.

Some who have "wandered from the fold" make a concerted effort to return to the teachings of their youth and renew covenants and religious practices and traditions.

Some request a picture or statue of Christ or other religious or cultural figures, or rosary beads, prayer shawl, or prayer books to use when praying.

Others may ask for scriptures or other religious books to read or listen to, or for small altars or shrines to be constructed.

Some may request particular objects or potions believed to have healing powers.

Yet others may request that caregivers and family members pray with and/or for them.

Some request their names to be placed on prayer rolls so others might pray for them.

Take time to explore personal desires of those you are charged with taking care of.

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Helping Elderly Loved Ones Find Value and Meaning--Part Two

Look at everything as though you were seeing it either for the first or last time.

Then your tine on earth will be filled with glory.

(Betty Smith, A Tree Grown in Brooklyn)

Thinking about, as well as creating a written list, of the things and people we are thankful for and the blessings and positive events in our lives releases neuro-chemicals, which help fight depression, boost the immune system, and enable us to feel nbetter in general.

It may be helpful, for you as well as your elderly loved ones, to write down something you and they are thankful for that begins with each letter of the alphabet every day and try not to use the same words two days in a row.

Reframing one's situation often enables individuals to cope by finding meaning and value in their present situation.

This time in life might provide a good opportunity to tell their life's story. They might want to write their memoirs or record their story on DVD so their heirs might have the opportunity to enjoy it.

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Helping Elderly Loved Ones Find Value and Meaning--Part One

In every language, every culture, the most difficult words you have to say are:

"I'm sorry. Forgive me."

Desmond Tutu

Spiritual and religious frameworks offer a means of evaluating one's life. Indiviuduals may search for ways to "make wrongs right." They may also seek ways to be forgiven so they might be released from guilt and shame.

For some individuals, this might come only by means of formal "confession" to a member of the clergy Therefore, you might ask your elderly loved ones if they would like a private visit with a priest, minister, bishop, or other spiritual leader.

They may also need to forgive others for perceived past transgressions.

When loved ones are angry, bitter, or resentful and seem unable to get out of their victim role, it might be helpful to encourage them to reframe their experience and look at their situation from a different perspective.

In a loving way, you might suggest they focus more on what they can do rather than what they can't do. They may no longer be able to walk, but perhaps they can sit and write names on the backs of photos and put those into albums.

They might be able to make phone calls for a charitable organization, read to pre-school children or help a child or adult leard to read.

Help them create a list of things they could do and would enjoy doing. Then find ways to make those things happen. This will help them to focus on ways they can continue to make contributions to their families and to society in general.

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

This too shall pass--dementia related agitation and rage.

It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye. Antoine DeSaint-Exupery

It is not uncommon for individuals suffering rom dementia to become agitated and often fly into fits of rage without warning. Remember, this too shall pass.

There are a number of medications which may help keep agitation and rage to a minimum, and these are certainly indicated for some individuals. However, there are many things you, as a caregiver, might do to help your loved ones remain calm.

First, ensure that you remain calm and do not take anything your elderly loved ones say as a personal attack on you. Their agitation and/or rage is not about you!

Second, lower your voice when attempting to soothe agitated individuals, and ensure that you are coming from a place of love. The feeling you communicate is far more important than the words you speak.

Third, always be reassuring. Whatever their fears are--reassure them that everything will be alright and that you will stay with them.

Fourth, ensure that they are not cold. A nice blanket aroung their shoulders or a lap guilt may help them to feel more secure. Also, offer them their favorite beverage or food.

Fifth, if possible, have them take several deep breaths with you. Oxygen is more calming than Valium!

You might also try distracting them very much like you would a child that is tantruming. Have photo albums nearby and try to get them to look at old photos with you and talk about times past.

If your loved one experiences sundowning, be prepared and get a head start each afternoon before their agitation gets out of control.

A few drops of lavender oil on their collar or a tiny drop between their upper lip and nose may help to keep them calm. Also, soft, soothing music may be helpful for them and for you!

Sincerely,

Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Three Ways to Avoid Losing Your Assets to Long Term Care

Hope you can join me tomorrow (6/8/10) at 12:00 noon EST. www.blogtalkradio.com/sandra-haymon for the episode "Three Ways to Avoid Losing Your Assets to Long Term Care."

My special guest, Noah Kendrick (Financial Advisor) will discuss ways to protect your retirement income from the risk of long-term care expenses and how to protect your investments from being sold to pay for long term care. He will also review a new option (Self Insuring) which allows money designated for long-term care to remain liquid. You won't want to miss this episode.

See you on the radio!
Sincerely,
Sandra -- Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Personal update.

Wow! I can hardly believe it's been nearly a week since I posted a blog. I have had the pleasure of my two sister's and brother-in-law's company for the past couple of weeks, and we spent some time in San Carlos, Mexico. It is absolutely beautiful there.

Now, to dig from under a hundred-plus e-mails, and get back into my routine. It is hot here in Marana, Arizona, but we have lovely breezes off the Santa Catalina Mountains in the back of our house and the Tortolita Mountains in the front. So, it's really quite nice.

Our sunsets are all so beautiful that we've almost quit taking photos of them because we were taking them every afternoon. We also watch the moon "rise" over the Catalinas and full moons are awesome!!

My friend (Patty) is still struggling with taking care of her mother and her husband who had a knee replacement. Thanks to all of you who've asked about her.

Take care and remember that "All the art of living, lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on." (Havelock Ellis)
Sincerely,
Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Sandwich Generation
http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon

Behavioral Signs of Spiritual Unrest in Elderly

There is no distance on this earth as far away as yesterday.

Robert Nathan

Behavioral signs of spiritual unrest or spiritual crisis may include self-injurious behaviors, constantly hollering out for others to help them, and frantically asking advice from others. Begging for pain medication or to be "put out of their misery." repeatedly questioning "Why me?' withdrawing from others, and refusing to help with their own baths or with feeding themselves all suggest a lack of resolve. Anger outbursts and/or power struggles with family members or other caregivers further imply a lack of internal peace.



Spiritual and religious frameworks offer a means of evaluating one's life. I will write more about this later.

Sincerely,

Sandra - Caregiver Guru for the Caregiver Generation

http://www.babyboomerssandwich.com/ www.youtube.com/sandrawhaymon