Ageism Interventions Do Make a Difference
Ok. I have to admit, the overall findings are somewhat “known” but the data used to get to the findings is about as good as it gets. University of Toronto and Cornell researchers conducted a meta analysis of data from over 26,000 studies.
I’m the end, the conclusions that educational programs AND Intergenerational programs both work at effectively combatting ageism. This is actually great news as it means we can implement real world strategies that aren’t too financially taxing to influence real change! Read more below.
What Is Lewy Body Dementia
The most common and well known form of dementia is Alzheimer’s, but another common form is Lewy Body Dementia. It shares some symptoms with Parkinson’s as “both associated with a collection of an abnormal protein called alpha-synuclein in the nerve cells of the brain.” But the difference is where these proteins are located.
Early symptoms of LBD are shown in changes to mood and cognition. Sometimes changes to fluidity of movement (tremors, stiffness, etc.) May also be present. One of the common issues in ageism is the lack of early diagnosis of diffeeent forms of dementia as primary care physicians may look at these symptoms and characterize them as normal occurrences in an aging process. But if you notice changes in a loved one or yourself, don’t be afraid to advocate for a deeper look and some additional tests.
To learn more about LBD, please read below.
Did You Miss Grandparent’s Day?
If you were like me, you may not have known about it. But it happened on September 8, 2019. If you’d like to read up on it, here’s the link to the Wikipedia page on Grandparent’s Day.
The idea may have been first pitched in 1969 to Richard Nixon. In 1977 the congress approved the day meant to promote the contributions of seniors in our community and ideas like “adopt” a Senior for life. It doesn’t get much play right now, but perhaps that will need to change a bit as we think more communally about taking care of our citizens.
Caregiving, a Spousal Perspective
This is a wonderful piece in the Daily Press written by Joann Mahony. She walks through the standard definition of what caregiving is, but then approaches it from a spousal perspective. She calls out how it can be spiritually rewarding but can also stretch the boundaries of one’s patience and it calls out how it can test the promises made when committing to a marriage.
If you have some time, it’s worth a read.
