Latest news with #JenniferReeder
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Ways to create a dementia-friendly environment during the Fourth of July
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — With the Fourth of July approaching quickly, it's important to remember that fireworks celebrations are not for everyone. This includes pets, veterans and those living with dementia. The Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) created the 'F.O.U.R.' steps to creating a dementia-friendly Fourth of July. 'Fireworks and loud noises can create challenges for individuals living with dementia, which is why families need to make thoughtful, proactive adjustments to help their loved ones with dementia celebrate and enjoy Independence Day,' said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, SIFI, senior director of educational and social services at AFA. 'Being prepared and adaptable are the best ways caregivers can create a dementia-friendly 4th of July for their loved ones.' If someone is a war veteran, AFA says the noises that come from fireworks can be triggering and mistaken for gunshots or bombs. Being inside at times when they are likely to hear fireworks is a good precaution. 'Even if that person is inside, they still may be in an area where fireworks are going off,' Chris Schneider, director of media relations at AFA said. 'That can be leaving the air conditioning on, getting a white noise machine or playing soothing, familiar music. All of that can help muffle some of those sounds.' It can also be helpful to check in on your loved one throughout the night if they live with you. Large crowds can be overwhelming for someone living with dementia. If you are hosting a gathering, limit guests to a few family members and close friends. AFA says name tags could be beneficial. 'Structure the celebration around the person's routine,' Schneider said. 'Routine disruptions can be troubling for someone living with dementia. If they normally eat at a certain time, build that into the day. If they usually take a nap at a certain time, build that into the day.' The AFA says to revise how you celebrate. The organization mentions that living with dementia shouldn't limit how someone celebrates Independence Day. Caregivers could make patriotic decorations and crafts, or look through a family album with pictures of previous Fourth of July celebrations. Both are dementia-friendly activities. Schneider says anyone looking for additional guidance can do so on their website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
10-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Valentine's Day tips for helping someone with dementia
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – A national foundation is encouraging families who have a loved one with dementia by giving five tips to help someone affected by dementia to celebrate Valentine's Day. The Alzheimer's Foundation of America knows that it's challenging for those who have dementia to navigate the special holiday. Jennifer Reeder is AFA's Director of Educational and Social Services. 'Dementia changes many facets of life, including relationship dynamics, but it should not prevent people from feeling love and affection,' she said. 'There are ways families can adapt how they connect and express support so that someone living with dementia can experience love on Valentine's Day and throughout the year.' You can help create a dementia-friendly Valentine's Day for your family by following the AFA's H.E.A.R.T. tips. Help reminisce: By going through old photographs with your loved one, you can explain who the people are, where the image was taken, what was happening in the photo, and more. You can talk about these special moments and celebrate the bond you share. But you should avoid asking the person if they remember the events depicted in the photographs. Enjoy flowers: The scent of flowers can stimulate the brain of those with dementia. Purchase non-toxic flowers, set them on a table, and enjoy them with your loved one. Adapt intimacy: Maintaining, restoring, and creating intimate connections is as easy as sharing a meal, watching a movie, enjoying music, or walking. Use nonverbal cues such as smiles and eye contact to maintain and strengthen connections with someone struggling to verbalize their feelings. Reaffirm feelings: Write and read aloud a Valentine's Day card for your loved one. They may be able to feel the sentiments behind your writing, and the process can help you express yourself, too. Talk in the person's love language: Does your loved one appreciate words of affirmation, touch, quality time, gifts, or acts of service? Knowing how your loved one feels appreciated gives you the chance to speak to them in the language of love that they prefer. If you need to speak to someone about dementia care, call the AFA's helpline at (866) 232-8484. You can also text (646) 586-5283 or chat on the web with AFA professionals. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
