Illinois Cognitive Resources Network

Connecting to resources throughout your dementia journey

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Tips for Changes in Communication and Behavior for People With Dementia

Communication can be hard for people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias because they have trouble remembering things. They also can become agitated and anxious, even angry. In some forms of dementia, language abilities are affected such that people have trouble finding the right words or have difficulty speaking. You may feel frustrated or impatient, butContinue reading “Tips for Changes in Communication and Behavior for People With Dementia”

Caring for a Loved One With Dementia: Tips for Everyday Tasks

As the symptoms of dementia get worse over time, even simple, everyday activities can become difficult. As a caregiver, you can take steps to help manage these changes and make daily tasks easier. Consider these tips: Explore more tips for everyday care. This information is also available in Spanish.

Self-Care for Caregivers

Being a caregiver can be extremely rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming. It’s not uncommon to feel lonely or frustrated with everyone around you, from the care recipient to the doctors. That’s why taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do as a caregiver. Here are a fewContinue reading “Self-Care for Caregivers”

Activities to Do with a Loved One Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease

It’s important to spend quality time with a family member or friend who has Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. This can help improve their quality of life and manage behavior changes that may come with the disease. It can also help grow and strengthen their connection to you. Shared activities are a great wayContinue reading “Activities to Do with a Loved One Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease”

How Alzheimer’s Caregivers Can Help a Loved One Cope with Changes in Intimacy

Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in intimacy for a person with the disease as well as their caregivers. Most people with Alzheimer’s disease need to feel that someone loves and cares about them. As a caregiver, here are a few ways to help someone with Alzheimer’s cope with changes in intimacy Let the person knowContinue reading “How Alzheimer’s Caregivers Can Help a Loved One Cope with Changes in Intimacy”

Today at 2:30 p.m. ET! Mental Health and Older Adults: Live Q&A

Join the Mental Health and Older Adults: Live Q&A on Facebook today to learn how mental health plays a vital role in good health and well-being throughout your life! This event will feature experts from NIA, the National Institute of Mental Health, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit NIA’s Facebook page at 2:30 p.m. ETContinue reading “Today at 2:30 p.m. ET! Mental Health and Older Adults: Live Q&A”

Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center Now Live on Facebook: Social Security 101

We’re live on Facebook. Join our Latino Core “Let’s Talk” series as Elizabeth Montalvo from Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center and Josephine Mueller from the Social Security Administration give an overview of Social Security benefits and discuss tips on planning for your future. All are welcome to join. Q&A session to follow. Find us on Facebook:Continue reading “Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center Now Live on Facebook: Social Security 101”

Communication Tips for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Communication can be difficult for people with Alzheimer’s disease. They may struggle to find words or forget what they want to say. As a caregiver, you may feel frustrated or impatient, but it is important to understand that the disease is causing the change in communication skills. Here are some ways you can help makeContinue reading “Communication Tips for Alzheimer’s Caregivers”

Get Important Papers in Order

No one expects to get sick or have a disability but planning ahead can make a big difference. Here are a few tips to help you get started: Put important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. Tell a trusted family member or friend where to find important papers. Give permission in advanceContinue reading “Get Important Papers in Order”

Caring for a person with late-stage Alzheimer’s: Help with eating and swallowing

Many people in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease lose interest in eating and may experience trouble with their chewing and swallowing. If a person with Alzheimer’s is not eating enough, he or she may not be getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Similarly, difficulty with chewing and swallowing may lead to chokingContinue reading “Caring for a person with late-stage Alzheimer’s: Help with eating and swallowing”