Understanding Dementia

If you or someone you love has dementia, you probably have A LOT of questions. What type of dementia is it, how you can handle different needs with it, and how to support caregivers. The posts below are packed with A LOT of information. At Frontida, we want to be your resource. Please contact us to let us help you further.

Types of Dementia

Is Grandpa’s Dementia Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is not the only form of Dementia, but it is the most common. Six million patients in the U.S. have it. Here’s what makes Alzheimer’s what it is.

When Dementia ISN'T Alzheimer's

When Dementia ISN’T Alzheimer’s: Vascular and Lewy Body Dementias

Alzheimer’s may be the first most common type of dementia, but Vascular Dementia and Lewy Bodies (DLB) are the second. What’s the difference?

Some diseases like Parkinson's and Huntington's became dementia

When Diseases Become Dementias: Parkinson’s and Huntington’s

Sometimes Dementia is a byproduct of another illness, like Parkinson’s or Huntington’s. And those kinds of dementias may need to be handled differently. If we can grasp what’s happening, we can develop a plan for how to move forward.

Dementias’ Rarer Breed: Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal Dementia is all about behavior. Dad is acting “odd,” “socially inappropriate.” Sadly, it’s frequently diagnosed as a psychiatric problem. But it’s far from it!

Dealing with Dementia

4 Helpful Books for Caregivers of Elderly Parents

Four Books You’ll Want to Read as You Care for Your Elderly Parents

The first book in this list is all about dementia… 36 Hour Day is that encylopedia you’ll grab when that dementia is causing something new.

Recognizing Memory Loss

Recognizing Memory Loss: When the Forget-Me-Nots You Bought for Mom Feel like a Plea

We all forget things now and then.

But looking at Mom, you’re starting to worry. Something seems off and you can’t help wondering. Is her forgetfulness more than just the normal brain fog?

5 Steps to Following Directions and Why Dementia Won't Let Grandma Do It

The 5 Steps to Following Directions (and Why Dementia Won’t Let Grandma Do It)

Even simple requests require several mental steps to process. Most of the time, we jump from one to the next without much thought. But Dementia and Alzheimer’s can short-circuit any of them. Where are the possible hurdles?

How to Stop Memory Loss from Ruining the Day

How to Stop Memory Loss from Ruining the Day

Dementia can feel like being dropped on stage in the middle of some unknown play, expected to perform.

Help the day start out right with these 10 steps.

How to Make the Best of Your Spouse's Forgetfulness: Dealing with Memory Loss

How to Make the Best of Your Spouse’s Forgetfulness: Dealing with Memory Loss

Dementia isn’t easy! Not for the one who has it, nor for the ones who love him. But all the daily losses don’t have to end in defeat, especially when it comes to communicating.

If you understand your spouse’s confusion, you can help calm storms before they rage out of control.

When Memory Loss Escapes Her Mind: Dementia’s Attack on the Body

Memory loss doesn’t just affect the brain. It progressively affects the whole body, especially the eyes. Here are some positive ways to help when her brain and body aren’t connecting.

Help Grandpa Enjoy the Party Without Ruining the Rest of His Week

How to Help Grandpa Enjoy the Party (Without Ruining the Rest of His Week)

How do you set up the family party so Grandpa enjoys it–without ruining the rest of his week? Here are 12 super helpful ideas.

Top 10 Emotional Needs that Are Still Important to Grandma

Top 10 Emotional Needs that Are Still Important to Grandma

How do you set up the family party so Grandpa enjoys it–without ruining the rest of his week? Here are 12 super helpful ideas.

Support for Caregivers

Love You Forever--Robert MunschHow to Beat Caregiver Burnout

Survival Guide to Overcoming Burnout

Caregiver burnout is a real thing.

How can you get the rest you need to beat burnout while still honoring Mom? We’ve got some ideas for you.

24-7 What Caregivers Wish We Knew About Caregiving

What Caregivers Wish We Understood about Self-Care

“Self-care” seems to be the buzz word of the decade. But what does self-care really mean to your caregiving friends? And how can we help?

A New Year Perspective on a Schedule that's Getting Old--Encouragement for Caregivers

A New Year Perspective on a Schedule that’s Getting Old: Encouragement for Caregivers

You feel like you’re stuck in a rut and every day looks “same old” for you and Grandma as you care for her.

How can you add some freshness to your routine that’s starting to feel stale?

Simple Clues for Knowing If Your Aging Parents Need Help

7 Simple Clues to Know If Your Aging Dad Needs Help

Dad seems to be slowing down.

You don’t want to take away his independence, but you’re worried about him.

How can you know if it’s time to call in reinforcements?

Comprehensive Guide to All Things Aging

The Comprehensive Guide to All Things Aging

The Comprehensive Guide to All Things Aging

A list of all the articles that you can find here on Frontida’s site to help you with your questions about aging.