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What Should Caregivers Know About the New Clinical Trial of Resveratrol For Alzheimers Symptoms and Disease?

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:36:39 +0000

When you’re in the midst of caregiving for someone with Alzheimers symptoms, sometimes the wheels of progress seem to move awfully slowly.

And drug studies are no exception.

Over the past decade there has been renewed interest in “The Mediterranean Diet” and its components. Beyond reducing the risk of heart disease, certain parts of it have been also found to have an anti-aging component.

Especially resveratrol, a compound found in red wine and grapes.

There’s a new study with resveratrol starting in the US. The lead investigator is R. Scott Turner, M.D., M.P.H. of Georgetown University Medical Center. This article explains more about the study and how long he’s already been working on it…

In Vino Vitalis? In Wine There Is Life?

The expression in vino veritas — “in wine there is truth” — amuses R. Scott Turner, M.D., Ph.D., but he is more prone to quote in vino vitalis — “in wine there is life.”

That’s because Turner, Director of Georgetown University Medical Center’s Memory Disorders Program, knows that resveratrol, (a compound found in red wine and red grapes), when used as a treatment of laboratory animals, lowers risk of diseases of aging — thus, prolonging their health and life spans.

Human trials of resveratrol are now underway for a variety of aging maladies, including a new national study that Turner is leading.

Turner has designed a clinical trial to test whether high doses of resveratrol are well tolerated and whether they can slow the progression of dementia in individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease.

In this federally funded $4 million study, to be conducted with 120 individuals at 26 academic medical centers across the U.S., investigators will test daily doses of resveratrol equivalent to that found in about 1,000 bottles of red wine — preferably a pinot noir from Oregon which Turner says contain the highest levels of resveratrol.

He can’t wait to get started. That’s because he has worked to develop the study for more than seven years since he submitted his proposal to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study (ADCS) group.

Turner reports that resveratrol treatment delays and prevents the onset of Alzheimer’s disease in mouse models with the disorder. Other studies report that resveratrol treatment lowers cholesterol, lowers fat stores, and improves muscle endurance in mice. These are parameters that often drive the development of type II diabetes, which some researchers consider a form of accelerated aging.

The major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is aging. “We used to think that aging is a non-modifiable risk factor – but is it?” Turner asks. He cites a number of studies that show caloric restriction can prolong both health and life spans and that, on the flip side, diabetes is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

“Investigators have found that Alzheimer’s is somehow linked to metabolism, which is energy balance, and that preventing diabetes by caloric restraint and by exercising regularly in mid-life, may prevent or delay Alzheimer’s in later life,” he says.

Human population studies have often found health benefits from modest consumption of red wine, including a lower risk of dementia. And a recent pilot study of resveratrol treatment in obese men showed improvement in their lipid and glucose profiles.

Delving deeper into the biological thread, investigators discovered that one gene and its protein, SIRT1, is implicated in regulation of aging, and that a compound that appears to promote SIRT1 activity is resveratrol.

Much of this research happened while Turner was developing his resveratrol study, a task that included finding a biotech company that would synthesize resveratrol for the clinical trial. “Resveratrol cannot be patented, so major pharmaceutical companies are not very interested,” Turner says. “Research studies cost millions of dollars to conduct and without patent protection, a pharmaceutical company would be unable to recover their costs.”

Participants in the study will receive either a placebo (a pill that looks like resveratrol but has no active ingredient) or escalating doses of resveratrol. Cognitive tests will be given before and after treatment, and brain volumes will be measured using MRI scans. Investigators will also look at changes in spinal fluid proteins and in overall metabolism (blood glucose and insulin).

Neither the patients nor the clinicians will know if the study participant is receiving placebo or resveratrol until the end of the study.

“ This is the gold standard for conducting a clinical study because it allows us to objectively determine if resveratrol may offer any clinical benefits,” says Brigid Reynolds, NP, lead investigator for the study at Georgetown.

While Turner’s national resveratrol trial is underway, others investigators are looking at the compound to prevent or treat cancer, diabetes, and heart disease in humans.

“We think resveratrol may target basic mechanisms of aging, which also tie into metabolism,” he says. “There are a lot of biological black boxes that we don’t understand yet, but are seeking to explain. … and we can’t wait for the answers! The silver tsunami is already here.”

To learn more about the resveratrol study or other Alzheimer’s studies underway at Georgetown, contact Kelly Behan in the GUMC Memory Disorders Program by calling (202) 687-0413 or via email .

Information is also available at memory.georgetown.edu. Georgetown study participants must be in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, speak English, have a study partner who knows them well, and be willing to undergo examinations, blood tests, MRI scans and spinal fluid collection.

By Renee Twombly, GUMC Communications

Original Source:

In Vino Vitalis? In Wine There Is Life?

Some caregivers’ questions about this trial include…

What is a Phase II Trial?
The FDA has a series of trials to allow a new drug on the market. There are four phases to the trials.

Phase I screens for safety. Usually a small group of people are enrolled, often 20 to 80. The goals are to evaluate the safety of the drug, determine what a safe dosage range is and identify side effects.

Phase II establishes the Testing Protocol. A larger group of people, usually 100 to 300, are enrolled. The goals are to see if the drug is effective and further evaluate its safety.

Phase III is the Final Testing before release. In this phase 1000 to 3000 people are usually enrolled to confirm the drug’s effectiveness, monitor its side effects, compare it to the current commonly used treatments and to collect additional information about its safe use.

Phase IV are Post-Approval Studies. These studies continue to address risks, benefits and optimal use of the drug.
Why aren’t more foods tested?
Basically, it’s a cost issue. The pharmaceutical companies are in business to make money.

Bringing a drug to market can take many years of research, and the company that brings it first to market bears the brunt of the costs. So the company and their shareholders want to be sure that the drug can be patented so they can recover their costs and make money on the drug. And this needs to be done before the patent expires. The patent clock starts ticking before the drug is released, so that puts even more pressure on the company.

In research and development, many more drugs are developed than ever reach the market. They may have safety issues, manufacturing issues or something else that prevents their full development and release.
What is the purpose of this study?
According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), “The purpose of this study is to determine whether daily resveratrol therapy is beneficial in delaying or altering the deterioration of memory and daily functioning in people with probable Alzheimer’s disease.”

Thinking you know someone who qualifies for the study?

You can learn how to participate by contacting the NIA’s Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center at by clicking here.

Are you caring for someone with Alzheimers symptoms?

It’s important that you also care for yourself, you know.

One way is to have Daily Inspirational Thoughts designed for caregivers.

Get yours daily delivered into your inbox by clicking here now.

And even if it’s just for today…

Choose Life, Love and Laughter!

To your healthy and happy knitting & caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com
Ambassador of Elder Care at www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

What Do Knitting and Daily Inspirational Thoughts Have To Do With Mother’s Day?

Mon, 14 May 2012 00:55:09 +0000

Mothers often share knitting and inspirational thoughts with their daughters.

Today I wrote a Mother’s Day post on The Knitting Yarn, and am sharing it with you here.

Did you first learn to knit from your mother or grandmother?

Many knitters did.

Like many crafts, it connects the generations.

Today is Mother’s Day, and I found a poem I thought you might enjoy…

A Mother’s Love
There are times when only a mother’s love
Can understand our tears,
Can soothe our disappoints
And calm all of our fears.

There are times when only a mother’s love
Can share the joy we feel
When something we’ve dreamed about
Quite suddenly is real.

There are times when only a mother’s faith
Can help us on life’s way
And inspire in us the confidence
We need from day to day.

For a mother’s heart and a mother’s faith
And a mother’s steadfast love
Were fashioned by the angels
And sent from God above.

–Author Unknown

Did or does your mother encourage you to knit?

Are you planning to pass your love of knitting on to the next generation?

How can knitting and inspirational thoughts be part of Mother’s Day?

Choosing a Mother’s Day card with an inspirational thought and knitting a gift.

Knitting together today and making your happy memories your inspirational thoughts.

Maybe your inspirational thoughts are all about knitting.

If your Mother is still with you, be sure to spoil her nicely today. And every day.

And if she has made her completion, may you have only good memories to remember. Or only remember the good ones.

Every one has good memories and not-so-good ones. Sometimes the only way to leave them in the past is to choose which ones you remember. As the knight in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade said, “Choose wisely.”

Choosing to remember the good times and forget the bad may just be the healthiest thing you can do for yourself. Choose life, laughter and love.

Do you have Daily Inspirational Thoughts to help you through the good days and the not-so-good ones?

They can help a lot. And with computers, you can have one delivered daily to your inbox.

Click here now to get my free Daily Inspirational Thoughts for caregivers – and other busy knitters!

And have a BLESSED and HAPPY Mother’s Day!

Original Source:

What Do Knitting and Daily Inspirational Thoughts Have To Do With Mother’s Day?

Choose life, love and laughter – and see what a difference it can make!

To your healthy and happy knitting & caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com
Ambassador of Elder Care at www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

Older Americans Month 2012: How Can Caregivers Use Its Theme Never Too Old To Play?

Sat, 05 May 2012 14:37:56 +0000

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The theme for Older Americans Month 2012 is “Never Too Old To Play!”

Reading about it on the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) website started me thinking about my Aunt Ina. Even at 93 she was still active in playing bridge and other games.

She enjoyed games and life!

Here is the article from the U.S. Administration on Aging about this year’s theme…

Never Too Old To Play!

May is Older Americans Month, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for the older adults in our communities. Since 1963, communities across the nation have come together to celebrate Older Americans Month—a proud tradition that shows our nation’s commitment to recognizing the contributions and achievements of older Americans.

The theme for Older Americans Month 2012, Never Too Old to Play…

encourages older Americans to stay engaged, active and involved in their own lives and in their communities. In celebration of Older Americans Month, the U.S. Administration on Aging is pleased to provide this website which offers useful resources and tools to help you plan and promote events and activities honoring older Americans.

Consider hosting a Day of Play with a team trivia night, intergenerational Wii bowling tournament or other fun activity! Bring the community together by painting a mural or sponsoring a photo scavenger hunt. Whatever your community does, make sure you have fun and consider making it intergenerational. More than anything else always remember… You’re Never Too Old To Play!

Get Involved.

Here are three great ways to support Older Americans Month.

Host a Day of Play.
The Administration on Aging is encouraging Aging Network partners and other organizations around the country to host a Day of Play. This website includes numerous suggestions to help you plan and promote your Day of Play.

Use Social Media.
AoA’s social media tools and sample story arc make it easy to promote Older Americans Month on your social media networks. Use the pledge badge to the right to show your support of Older Americans Month. Share messages from the OAM story arc on your Facebook page and Twitter feed, remember to use the hashtag #OAM2012.

Promote Older Americans Month.
Use traditional tools like posters, newsletters, and website banner-ads to promote Older Americans Month to your partners and stakeholders.

Original Article:

Older Americans Month 2012: Never Too Old To Play!

Nice information for a business or group, like a senior center. What about individual caregivers?

Wondering how this fits into your caregiving?

Play can be an important part of successful caregiving.

Wondering how?

Well, many activities are fun. And adding fun is an important part of caregiving.

Goodness, there is enough pain and suffering in caregiving! Finding your joy can be a daily challenge. Sometimes hourly!

Adding fun can make caregiving more enjoyable giving both you and your care recipient a brief respite from the cares and challenges of caregiving.

And don’t you both need it?

How can caregivers can use the theme for Older Americans Month 2012?

Make play and fun part of your caregiving all year.
You can add games or fun activities to your caregiving all year long. Some may be seasonal. There’s no reason you need to limit fun and games to just one month!
Do you see how this year’s theme is really about becoming aware of ways to add play to senior citizens’ lives?
It is.
Choose activities your care recipient can do and likes.
Not everyone likes card games. Maybe adjusting a hobby to fit your care recipient’s physical, mental and emotional situation is necessary…
Be flexible with activities, changing them as a disease or aging progresses.
When my mother started to fail, she became frustrated she could no longer sew. A life-long sewer and quilter, she became depressed.
Wondering what the solution was?
Ours was finding simpler projects for her, like weaving loops into pot holders on a loom. And it worked!

Play is fun and can keep the mind and body active.

Be sure to adjust activities to what your care recipient enjoys and can successfully do!

It is okay to help when needed.

And what about you?

Wondering how you can add play activities to your life? Or why?

Because it is part of successfully navigating the hard road of caregiving.

Now there’s a road map to navigate caregiving and to more than survive – to thrive – in caregiving!

Click here to download your road map now.

And start thriving today!

To your healthy and happy caregiving,

Dr. Ina

Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Bestselling Author of “What Do I Say In a Sympathy Card?”

Creator of A HEART PLAN

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com

Ambassador of Elder Care, www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

3KCBWDAY3 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week Day 3; Who Is Your Knitting or Crochet Hero?

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:52:40 +0000

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Today is Day three of the 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week from Eskimimi Makes.

And today’s challenge is to blog about someone who is your knitting or crochet hero.

My knitting and crochet hero is the most amazing crafter I’ve ever met.

She taught herself to crochet, spin, weave, knit, tat, dye yarn and more. She even builds her own frames for weaving, and her own hand spindles for spinning.

Most of her projects are made without a pattern. Although she does test my knitting patterns.

Never one to waste time, she will spin or crochet when walking next door.

She constantly amazes and inspires me to improve and try something new.

Here is some of her amazing work –

She’s my sister, and I’m honored to count her as my teacher and friend. She likes to be anonymous, and is amazing.

To get one of my free knitting patterns, this one for making tiny mittens, leave a comment on this post.

You need to leave the comment on the original post on The Knitting Yarn for your instant download. Reading this on a blog other than The Knitting Yarn? Then just click here now to go to the original post.

For more posts from the 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week Knitting or Crochet Hero Day 3, just copy and paste this code into your favorite search engine (Google, Yahoo, Dogpile, etc.) 3KCBWDAY3

And for yesterday’s posts, use this code 3KCBWDAY2, and Monday’s 3KCBWDAY1

To your healthy and happy knitting & caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com
Ambassador of Elder Care at www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

Original Post:

3KCBWDAY3 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week Day 3; Who Is Your Knitting or Crochet Hero?

Knitting and Caregiving: Photography Challenge 3KCBWDAY2

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 18:57:12 +0000

Today is Day two of the 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week from Eskimimi Makes.

And today’s challenge is to be creative with photography.

So, I decided to challenge myself with finding a way to combine knitting and caregiving, and set a scene. Knitting can help pass the time, and it can also result in making something for the knitter or the one needing care.

Sometimes it’s a way to get the one needing care interested in something, to take her thoughts off her illness. Or maybe she can even “supervise” if she’s knitted in the past. She might be excited to receive the project the two of you worked on “together.”

And it might just be a first step in healing.

“Love begins by taking care of the closest ones – the ones at home.” ~ Mother Teresa

Sometimes loving the ones closest to us involves hard choices. When you choose to be a caregiver, whether for a child or adult, you also get to make hard choices. And that can lead to stress.

Knitting also can relieve stress.

And one thing caregiving has plenty of is stress! So combining the two is a natural for stress relief.

Not only that, but many projects are small enough to be portable. You can take them and work on them in a waiting room, or even at the bedside.

I call this “Knitting At the Bedside.”

And here’s a close-up of her knitting needles and knitting. Her needles used to be toothpicks that I sanded to blunt their points.

This post, quote or the pictures inspire you?

3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week Day 1: Colour Lovers 3KCBWDAY1

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 21:55:06 +0000

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Today is the first day of the 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week. Today’s topic is Colour Lovers.

And this post has my answers to some questions about colors knitters often get asked.

How do you choose colors for your knitting projects?

Mostly I love choosing a color that the recipient will want to wear. Whether it’s for me or for a gift. So when possible for a gift, I try to get yarn in colors she or he will love.

When I look at the colors in my stash, they are colors that comfort me.

There’s some bright red and green for Christmas, bright colors of cotton worsted for dishcloths, some white and turquoise, and lots of browns, oranges and yellows.

And some lavender and purple for variety.

Do you love a rainbow of bright hues or more subtle tones?

The short answer is yes.

The shades don’t matter as much as the color itself.

Although after knitting two fingerless gloves with black alpaca yarn, I tend to avoid black. It’s hard to see and can make even an easy knitting project challenging.

Or difficult!

Although I did recently knit a pair of socks with black stripes in them, and do have a lot of yarn left over. Possibly enough for another pair.

I’ll need to be in the right mood to tackle that yarn again, and right now I have another project on my sock needles (Phew!).

Colorful hand spun yarn from my knitting stash

Do you pay attention to the colors on a pattern when choosing it?

I’m more interested in the pattern itself than the colors the designer used to knit it. And I’m often substituting a different yarn anyway.

Leave a comment on this post on The Knitting Yarn and get a free instant download of my Easy Customizable Knitting Bag. An easy way to experiment with your own color choices!

It makes a nice bag for carrying your knitting, or something else. It’s a nice size for carrying small projects when you know you’ll be waiting, and may need to stash them in a hurry in your bag. The original color is from Kool-Aid dyed hand spun yarn.

To leave a comment, scroll to the bottom of the post on The Knitting Yarn. If you are reading this on a blog other than The Knitting Yarn, click here now to leave a comment on the original post.

For more posts from Day 1 of the 3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week, just copy and paste this code into your favorite search engine 3KCBWDAY1

To your healthy and happy knitting & caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com
Ambassador of Elder Care at www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

Original Post:

3rd Annual Knitting and Crochet Blog Week Day 1: Colour Lovers 3KCBWDAY1

Socks and Stress and Free Knitting Patterns

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:02:01 +0000

My renewed interest in knitting socks started when my mother was ill.

Her feet were often cold. She did not care for the local “store bought” socks. And I kept a watchful eye on her legs, as the sock legs often seemed too tight. Even though her legs were quite thin.

My sister suggested I knit mother a pair of socks.

And so I did. I knit her knee-high socks, and carefully measured to have them fit comfortably.

Since then, I’ve gone on to knit other socks. And found an interesting association with stress and knitting socks.

When the leg of a sock takes less than 3 days of knitting, that’s a sign of stress.

48 hours after starting sock

Knitting is one of the ways I relieve stress. Recently I’ve become more aware of the signals my body sends that I’m fatigued or stressed. This association with knitting is newly discovered.

And interesting.

The sock I knit when discovering this association is a free knitting pattern called Eagle’s Flight.

It’s interesting. I made the socks as a belated birthday present for a dear friend. Or so I thought.

They arrived on a day she was stressed, and the socks were just what she needed. On the day she needed them!

So one pair of socks helped relieve the stress of two people.

Don’t you just love “two for ones”?

Passing on the love and care that goes into a knitted project that is appreciated by the recipient is one of my favorite parts of knitting.

Although sometimes it can be a challenge finding or creating a pattern that suits the recipient.

Over the years, I’ve checked out many online free knitting patterns sources, and have a handful of favorites.

For a free pdf of my top 5 online free knitting patterns sources just leave a comment on this post. You need to leave the comment on the original post on The Knitting Yarn to get your download.

Reading this on a site other than The Knitting Yarn?

Just click here right now to leave a comment and get your free instant download.

To your healthy and happy knitting & caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com
Ambassador of Elder Care at www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

Original Post:

Socks and Stress and Free Knitting Patterns

Looking for Spring Activity Ideas for Seniors?

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 20:13:47 +0000

Spring is a great time to think about doing an activity with a senior.

The weather is nicer than just a few weeks ago. Sunny warm days can be a great reason to spend time in a fun activity with a senior.

Recently Tyra Ford asked me if she could write a guest post for Caregiving With Purpose about fun activities that can be done with a senior friend or relative.

As I thought about her request, I remembered one of the most memorable visits I ever had with an elderly relative. My Great Aunt Katie and I had a lovely visit at a family reunion.

We sat together eating at the table. During the meal, she told me all about her new life in a nursing home. She was full of excitement about her new friends and fun she was having.

What did I do?

I listened.

I’m not sure I had more than a half a dozen words in the conversation. It cost me nothing. I enjoyed making her day.

And as an added bonus, she made mine!

Here’s Tyra’s article. As you’ll see in my suggestions that follow, there are some additional things to consider -

Fun Activities for the Elderly!

People can have fun at any age.

Do you know many elderly can still take part in a variety of activities the same as anyone else? Including loved ones makes any activity more enjoyable.

There are both cognitive and physical activities that can bring enrichment to anyone, regardless of age.

Wondering which is more important? They are equally important, because staying fit is the key to longevity, and “brain-games” keep the mind sharp.

In other words, your brain is a muscle too, so exercise it!

The following activities can be enjoyed alone or in a group of all ages.

1. Walking

Walking has no age limits.

A walk can be as brisk or easy as you want. If someone needs to lose weight, you can even keep track of calories burned. Several people can enjoy walking at the same time.

If you’ve already been walking or it starts to get boring, changing the setting can make it more exciting. Hiking along a nature trail is one option. Most cities have several different trails with easy access.

Plus, visiting natural areas with friends and families is an enjoyable way to spend a weekend or extended holiday.

2. Games

Games are another way to make the most of the elderly years.

Why? Because there are a number of benefits associated with regular mental exercise, such as fighting the effects of aging.

Preferences about which games to play vary with the tastes of different people. One option is to visit a local chess park. Often, these parks offer various levels of competition and are the perfect way for the elderly to enjoy an intellectual challenge.

If there are no parks close by, the Internet has plenty of ways for people to play the game online too!

3. Social connections

Social connectedness is just as important as mental and physical health.

Unlike many activities, such as working out, socializing is both good for you and fun at the same time. There are several ways for the elderly to have fun with their friends and family.

Going out to eat is one way for families to get together, and this can also be something that encourages people to try new things. One meal, your grandpa can choose where to eat, the next, you can choose!

4. Golfing or Biking

Outdoor sports are another fun activity that can be enjoyed together.

Biking and golf are two pretty reliable choices, because biking is a low-impact aerobic sport that is easier on the knees than walking. And a ride can be any length.

There are also a number of large cycling gatherings that are held around the world for all skill levels. Attending one of these events is a great way to spend some time in a different part of the country or at the very least, meet new people.

Golfing is another fun activity that appeals to many older people because it’s a great way to get in some great walks without being too challenging.

Aging does not mean that life loses its zest. Numerous activities are fun and enjoyable for people of all age, they just have to be tailored sometimes.

As long as an activity is enjoyable and healthy, you can’t go wrong!

Tyra Ford likes to write about recreation, outdoor activities & websites like www.creditscore.net.

Like any group of people, seniors are individuals. What works for someone at age 68 will probably not be suitable at age 91.

If I had suggested a bike ride or golfing to any of my relatives, they would have looked at me as though I were crazy. And you know, they would have been right!

They either were not in physical shape to ride a bike, or didn’t like biking. While biking may be fine for younger seniors in good health, it can cause some serious injuries. Even in younger folks.

Biking can be physically challenging for someone who is not in optimal shape. Or hasn’t ridden a bike since childhood!

If you have questions about the advisability of an activity, check with the elderly person’s doctor or other health care provider first.

What are some simple steps to consider when choosing spring activity ideas for seniors?

Are there any physical limitations?
Consider if walking is a problem for your elderly person. Even a short walk can be challenging for someone using a cane or walker. Or someone who should be using them!
Include any physical limitations in considering activities.
What do they want to do?
Maybe checkers is what they like to play, instead of chess. Or maybe bridge or Monopoly. Or even an old-fashioned game like cribbage.
Can you help them with a hobby or an activity they haven’t been able to do all winter – or longer?
Does she miss grocery shopping or going to the mall?
Would a fisherman like to go look at the local streams? Even if it’s too cold to fish – yet.
Or maybe, like my Great Aunt Katie she just needs someone to listen.
Spending time with someone in the way they want can be the greatest gift you can him or her.
Do you see why?
Because it shows you care and you value who they are and what they want.
What are the time limits?
Time limits may be yours or maybe your elderly friend or relative’s. If you only have an hour, you won’t get in 18 holes at the golf course.
And maybe the person you’re with can only tolerate an activity for less time than you. Be sure to consider his or her needs, checking frequently to be sure the activity is not too tiring.

The bottom line is to put yourself as much as possible in their shoes. This can be a special time when you consider their wants and needs, not your own.

And can be a great escape from caregiving. Whether you are relieving a caregiver, or you are the caregiver and doing a different activity.

Caregiving can be the best thing you ever did, and the hardest. And sometimes it’s both at the same time!

A HEART PLAN is designed to help you with a road map for more than surviving – for thriving – in caregiving. Now you can get a free download of the steps in A HEART PLAN.

Just leave a comment on this post, and you’ll get your free download automatically. You need to leave your comment on the original post on Caregiving With Purpose. Just click here right now to leave your comment on the original post.

And enjoy your road map!

To your healthy & happy caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Bestselling Author of “What Do I Say In a Sympathy Card?”

Creator of A HEART PLAN

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com

Ambassador of Elder Care, www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

How Do I Know Which Senior Community Is Right for My Family Retirement Wishes?

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 19:02:25 +0000

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Whether you are searching for the right senior community for yourself or loved ones, the process is similar.

Finding the right one is often based mostly on your family’s financial needs.

While financial needs are important – and may be your most important consideration – they are not the only consideration. In making your loved ones’ or your own retirement wishes come true, you also should consider other needs important to you and your family.

When Eric was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, his wife Marie knew she had to find a specialized senior living community. And quickly.

She wanted one where he could receive the care he needed, and she could live independently nearby. Her hope was one not too far from the town where she and Eric lived for decades.

Marie made a list of her needs and wants, prioritized them and started a search.

She turned to her pastor for advice. He suggested a senior community filling all their needs and top wants. It was within her budget, 30 miles from their current home, and had independent cottages, a home, and skilled nursing care.

What else might be important?

Well things such as your recreational and fitness activities, social needs, cultural references and educational needs.

Wondering how to know which senior community is right for you and your family’s retirement wishes and needs?

Here are 5 steps to help you find the best senior community for you…

1. Know Your Wants and Needs

Make a detailed list of all of your wants and needs in regards to a senior community and what it provides.

If things such as cultural aspects, recreational activities, fitness and sports, location, church functions and educational activities are important to you, write them down. Go ahead and list things you think a senior community might not have available; this is your list, and should be as detailed and honest as possible.

You may be surprised by what senior communities in your area offer, including how many different types of activities, meal plans and amenities.

2. Nearby or Far Away?

Consider the location of the senior community.

Do you have friends or family in a certain city or town who you want to remain close to?
Is there a neighborhood you favor?
Do you prefer a city or suburban community to a rural one?
Do you want to live on the coast or mountains?
Is there another area you truly want to live in?

All of these are important things to consider. Once you have narrowed your options down based on location, the next step in finding a suitable senior community is…

3. Research the Community Care Options Available

Good advice is to do your research when considering different senior communities.

You can get help in researching the communities from friends, family and anyone you might know who has lived in these communities. Find out details about each one including what type of amenities and extras they offer, if they are highly recommended, and the costs of living in the community.

Ask questions like, “Is there a limit on how much they will raise fees for residents?” This can be an important consideration for a limited budget. Think of your own wishes and needs, preparing your list of questions.

4. Take a Tour

Visit each senior community you are considering and take a tour of the community, meet the staff and doctors, and receive as much detailed information as you can.

Ask to see the available rooms, recreation center or fitness area, the grounds where you can get fresh air and exercise, cafeteria where meals are available.

Can you eat lunch during your visit?

Check out for yourself if their meals suit your dietary needs.

5. Narrow Your Choices

Narrow your search based on everything you have learned so far about each community.

Having trouble deciding which one is the best choice?

Make a pros and cons list for each one. Choose the one that highly favors the pros on your list, rather than the cons.

Prioritize your wants and needs about a community to help narrow your search. Examples include having a church, laundry facilities near your room, one that allows pets, or is in the perfect location.

Choose wisely and take your time, rather than rushing into a decision.

Still need additional help?

Ask advice from trusted friends, family, your doctor, minister, and more. There are also services available online that can help you choose a senior community. Many of these services get a fee for referrals. So do your own research, or get someone to help you find the best service for you.

Once you know what you really want in a senior community, you can find one that is perfect for you.

Rather than choosing the first one you find or the one closest to your previous home, doing your research of different senior communities can improve you and your loved ones’ health, happiness and quality of life for years.

Is the stress of making retirement wishes come true getting to you?

Or maybe it’s the stresses of caregiving?

“The life I touch for good or ill will touch another life, and that in turn another, until who knows where the trembling stops or in what far place my touch will be felt.” ~ Frederick Buechner

When I first read this quote, I realized it sums up all I’ve ever tried to do as a caregiver. And I suspect many other caregivers feel the same way.

Until I read it, I didn’t realize how powerful an impact a simple act of caregiving can be. Or more accurately, maybe I forgot it in the hustle and bustle of giving care.

These Daily Inspirational Thoughts are written by me to you. Because I know how lonely and exhausting caregiving can become.

These short messages are meant to inspire you when you don’t have time to care for yourself.

Complete the form below to get your FREE Daily Inspirational Thoughts delivered to your in box.

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To your healthy & happy caregiving,

Dr. Ina
Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Bestselling Author of “What Do I Say In a Sympathy Card?”

Creator of A HEART PLAN

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com

Ambassador of Elder Care, www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

How May Vitamin D Trigger the Immune System To Remove Amyloid Plaques in Alzheimers Symptoms and Disease?

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:06 +0000

Could sunshine help or prevent Alzheimers symptoms?

Researchers are exploring how Vitamin D3 may trigger the immune system to help clear the amyloid plaques in Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamin D3 is produced in the skin after exposure to sunshine, and is found in milk and other foods fortified with Vitamin D.

~~An exciting article~~ Okay, the findings are exciting – not necessarily the article. Unless you’re a researcher, then you might find the article exciting!

The article describes how researchers at UCLA discovered how Vitamin D may clear the amyloid plaques found in Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s symptoms.

Here’s an explanation of the findings…

Vitamin D Explored as Alzheimer’s Treatment

By Traci Pedersen Associate News Editor
Reviewed by John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on March 9, 2012

Vitamin D3 may activate key genes and networks to help trigger the immune system to get rid of the amyloid beta protein, the core component of destructive plaques in the brain linked to Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study.

Previous lab work has shown that particular immune cells in people with Alzheimer’s respond well to vitamin D3 and curcumin (found in turmeric spice) by stimulating the immune system to clear the brain of amyloid beta; however, researchers were unsure of exactly how this worked.

Vitamin D3 is the form that is produced by the skin with the help of sunlight and is also found in milk.

“This new study helped clarify the key mechanisms involved, which will help us better understand the usefulness of vitamin D3 and curcumin as possible therapies for Alzheimer’s disease,” said study author Milan Fiala, M.D., a researcher at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System.

For the study, blood samples were taken from both Alzheimer’s patients and healthy controls; researchers then isolated the macrophages (critical immune cells), which are responsible for clearing out amyloid beta and other waste materials throughout the brain and body.

The scientists incubated these immune cells overnight with amyloid beta. In addition, an active form of vitamin D3 (called 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 — which is naturally produced in the body through enzymatic conversion in the liver and kidneys) was added to some of the cells to see if it had an effect on amyloid beta absorption.

Prior research by this team revealed that there are at least two types of patients and macrophages: Type I macrophages are improved with the addition of 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and curcuminoids (a synthetic form of curcumin), while Type II macrophages are improved with the addition of only 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.

In both Type I and Type II macrophages, 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 was critical in opening a specific chloride channel called chloride channel 3 (CLC3), which is important in supporting the uptake of amyloid beta through the process known as phagocytosis. Curcuminoids activated this chloride channel only in Type I macrophages.

“Our findings demonstrate that active forms of vitamin D3 may be an important regulator of immune activities of macrophages in helping to clear amyloid plaques by directly regulating the expression of genes, as well as the structural physical workings of the cells,” said study author Mizwicki, who was an assistant research biochemist in the department of biochemistry at UC Riverside when the study was conducted.

According to the researchers, the next step would include a clinical trial with vitamin D3 to determine its impact on Alzheimer’s patients. Previous studies by other teams have shown that a low serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 may be tied to cognitive decline.

It is too early to suggest a specific vitamin D3 dosage to help with Alzheimer’s disease and brain health, the researchers said. They add that current studies continue to reveal that Vitamin D3 may be helpful in reducing the incidence of several human diseases.

The study is published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Source: University of California

Original Article Source:

Vitamin D Explored as Alzheimer’s Treatment

So if more study is needed, wondering why the interest?

Well, it’s exciting because it’s great to know the mechanism of how Vitamin D works in Alzheimer’s. Then, presumably treatments can be developed that may work with Vitamin D to prevent or treat Alzheimer’s.

And hey, sunshine is free! Vitamin D is often low cost or already in fortified foods.

An important quote from the article is

“This new study helped clarify the key mechanisms involved, which will help us better understand the usefulness of vitamin D3 and curcumin as possible therapies for Alzheimer’s disease,” said study author Dr. Milan Fiala, a researcher at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System.

Maybe there’s a reason sunshine often makes you feel better. Curcumin is found in the spice tumeric.

The complex pathways of the brain are just beginning to be understood. And the connection of vitamins, supplements, minerals, foods and yes sunshine is also complex. Even understanding it a little may help prevent or treat Alzheimer’s!

Regular outings can be helpful psychologically and physically. And now there’s another reason to get your daily dose of Vitamin D – maybe preventing Alzheiemer’s and other dementias.

Are you caring for someone with a dementia? Or at risk for a dementia?

Then you probably know activities can sometimes have unexpected results.

A sharp word from a tired waiter, receptionist or clerk can abruptly escalate into a scene. And you may find the only solution is to remove your loved one from the situation. Later finding yourself dreading going there again…

Looking for help to prevent uncomfortable scenes?

A companion card discretely explains your situation. And can get you the extra support and patience you and your companion may need.

You can customize your own Alzheimer’s Companion Card. Click here right now to order your own cards.

To your healthy and happy caregiving,

Dr. Ina

Ina Gilmore, M.D. (Retired)
“The Knitting Dr.”

Bestselling Author of “What Do I Say In a Sympathy Card?”

Creator of A HEART PLAN

Founder, www.CaregivingWithPurpose.com and www.TheKnittingYarn.com

Ambassador of Elder Care, www.HowToLiveOnPurpose.com

Neuron and plaque image courtesy of the National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health