WINNEMUCCA - Exciting news for our community! After suggestions from those who stopped by the Winnemucca Alzheimer's Support Group table at the Winnemucca Wine Walk last summer, co-facilitator Joyce Mendiola and I are planning an Alzheimer's Awareness Day. Thanks to our mayor, Di An Putnam, this special day, Jan. 24, will be proclaimed at the Jan. 21, 2014 meeting of our city council. Our goal is to advance awareness of this insidious disease that strikes millions. Look for posters at businesses around town. You will recognize these with their purple background or lettering and flowing purple ribbon and attached informational flyers. The posters include the 10 warning signs of the possibility of Alzheimer's disease and our event highlight - bow tie tying.
Thanks to coaches Chelsea Mendiola and Chad Peters, we will have a special bow tie ribbon tying between the girls and boys basketball game, Friday, Jan. 24, in the Lowry gymnasium. Purple ribbon and wristbands may be purchased in advance from me or at the door. All donations go for local caregivers respite and to further educational opportunities for our community. We have invited Channel 4 Sports with Bryan Samudio to join us to spread facts to increase the knowledge of Alzheimer's. Jacob Harmon and Jennifer Baker of the Northern Nevada Alzheimer's Association plan to participate as well. I hope I will see you there!
Research indicates that the prevalence of Alzheimer's is on the rise due to many factors including a population that lives longer and has increased occurrence of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Just glancing at those four possible causes makes me very aware that just about every reader knows someone with this disease, whether in the early stages or the final throes. Since individuals with Alzheimer's may live from 2 - 20 years, it is frightening to imagine the potential landscape outline of dementia in the future. It is essential that we all learn everything there is to know about the disease and support research into better treatment and eventual cures. Knowledge is a powerful tool.
Jennifer Baker returns to Winnemucca Thursday, Feb. 20, at noon at Humboldt General Hospital in the Sarah Winnemucca room to present "Compassionate Communication". She will outline ideas for better interaction with individuals with Alzheimer's and other dementias including planning ahead and living in (better described as surviving) the repetitive moments of the disease. "I want to go home...I want to go home...I want to go home..." every three minutes of every day when you are already home is exhausting, overwhelming, and depressing. Her seminar is part of the on-going work of HGH wellness coordinator Louis Mendiola, promoting knowledge and understanding in a variety of health areas.
Recent advances in calming and to a certain extent slowing cognitive decline in Alzheimer's is credited to vitamin E. While it has been a frequent supplement for those victims in late stages of the disease, tests indicate that it is an important dietary addition in the early stages as well. This sounds all too simple to me - a vitamin reveals a cure - but at this point any possible indicator for improved mental functioning is good news. There is a long road ahead to find a cure but hopefully this may come within my lifetime. Wouldn't that be lovely?
As always, our local Alzheimer's Support Group is there for you. We especially worry about our caregivers, not just those who care for loved ones with dementia but any long-term caregiver whether for a child or an aging parent. You perform daily miracles through your patience, understanding, and ability to forgive. It is hard to fathom a more difficult task than constantly caring for another who may be mean and combative or one who is bewildered by everything in life, especially the presence of the devoted caregiver. Remember to:
• Manage your level of stress.
Stress affects your body (stomach aches, high blood pressure) - and your emotions (overeating, irritability). Practice relaxation techniques.
• Be realistic.
The care you give makes a difference, but many behaviors can't be controlled. Focus on positive times and enjoy good memories.
• Give yourself credit, not guilt.
It's normal to lose patience or feel like your care may fall short.
• Take a break.
No one can do it all alone. Look into respite care to allow time to take care of yourself.
• Accept changes.
Eventually your loved one will need more intensive kinds of care. Research care options now so you are ready for the future.
Gini Cunningham can be reached via email at gini.cunningham@sbcglobal.net.
[[In-content Ad]]
