MUST READS

An August 13, 2018 The Conversation article looked at the raft of complex processes involved in financial management, which can become challenging for older people, especially those with dementia. Financial management is one of the earliest tasks to deteriorate in dementia. According to the article, “We found that between 11% and 14% of the ability to manage those financial tasks is predicted by executive functioning, or problem solving skills, language, and motor problems. So this means, if a person has problems solving difficult tasks, problems with language, they fall frequently and are moving slowly, and are also more likely to also struggle with financial tasks.”

RESEARCH AND SCIENCE

An August 13, 2018 Science Daily article cited a new study from the University of Eastern Finland which finds that the use of benzodiazepines and related drugs (Z drugs) is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. According to the article, “These medications are commonly used for sleep problems, but their effectiveness for this indication diminishes over weeks or months. However, the risk of adverse events remains in longer-term use.”

GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES

An August 13, 2018 Scoop article highlighted a new short documentary out of New Zealand where people share their personal dementia experiences. Nearly 70,000 New Zealanders have dementia and the number is expected to almost triple by 2050.

CLINICAL TRIAL SPOTLIGHT

An August 14, 2018 Fox News 17 Nashville article spotlighted a new Alzheimer’s prevention research study at the Cognitive Medicine Center at Vanderbilt. People over age 60, with no signs of cognitive impairment, do a cheek swab checking for two genes that indicate AD risk. If they possess either gene, they can participate in a study, including testing of an approved medicine that may prevent or delay Alzheimer’s. Get more information here.

CAREGIVING CORNER

A Caregiver SOS blog post by Dr. Jamie Huysman, PsyD, LCSW talked about obstacles to practicing kindness for family caregivers. Support groups and/or trusted friends can be important outlets for venting feelings about what can be a ‘thankless job.’ According to Huysman, “It’s been said that 10% of conflict is due to a difference of opinion, and 90% is due to the wrong tone of voice. Sometimes it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Choosing words wisely, thinking before speaking, and speaking in a manner you would like to be spoken to are important communication skills; some say considering the source is an art.”

EVENTS AND RESOURCES

Join the National Caregiving Conference, November 9-10, 2018 in Chicago (or online). The conference brings together family caregivers and former family caregivers from across the country. Family caregivers and former family caregivers are the experts and headline presentations and panel discussions. This year’s theme is “Our Best Selves.” Register here.