Author & Residential Care Owner Delivers Exceptional Service & Fights to Remove Stigma Attached to Dementia

Tuesday March 1st – 2pm EST, 1pm CST, 12pm MST, 11am PST & 7pm London GMT, 9pm South Africa SAST, and on the 2nd at 6am in Australia AEDT

Watch the Interview by Clicking Below

Our Host, Lori La Bey will be talking with our guest Christiana Egi who has been driven to be a care partner through her life roles as a mother, grandmother, Registered Nurse, Diabetic Educator, Registered Natural Health Nutritionist, Geriatric and Mental Health Specialist. She is also the Author of A Rose For Grandma.

She has spent 10 years of her 34-year career in nursing working in the crisis unit of Canada’s largest Psychiatric Hospital. For the last 22 years, she has worked as the owner and operator of Alexis Lodge Retirement Facilities in Toronto, Canada, a business she started with her late husband Anthony, to impact the lives individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.  The Alexis Lodge is focused on putting the individuals first and giving them a place to call home. This is a place where people are treated with love, respect, and dignity when they can no longer be cared for at home by their loved ones.

Christiana is a woman of faith. She uses her belief as a guide to help others see the little things in life to be thankful for. She has a daily goal of putting a smile on someone’s face helps the world go around more positively. They apply this belief when caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.

Christiana has always said love and respect are the cornerstones of caring for an individual and I couldn’t agree with her more. She is determined to help eradicate the stigma around Dementia and Mental Illness during her lifetime.

Listen to the Show – Click Below

Contact Christina Egi

Website

Email

Amazon 

LinkedIn

YouTube

Twitter

Instagram

Phone:  647-395-0234 

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Register for a Live Demo Tour of Dementia Map on Zoom!

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Dementia and the Arts is an Educational Panel where all levels of artists and all types are welcome. Our goal is to elevate panelists work and ability to create beauty in many forms. They will share examples of various types of art they participate in, how, and why they started, what they have learned, and what they personally get out of making art. Panelists, do not have to attend all sessions.

Anyone living with dementia interested in participating, please reach out to Lori La Bey via email, or Private message her on FaceBook

As you will see from the sample video above, conversations are comfortable, casual, and fascinating. We have so much to learn from one another. All recordings will be prerecorded and published to Alzheimer’s Speaks YouTube channel with a specific playlist channel for easy access. Each episode will be pushed out on Alzheimer’s Speaks social media channels as well.

Dementia Chats is a series of video conversations where we talk with the true experts on dementia, those living with a diagnosis. Lori La Bey, founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks facilitates a conversation and is amazed by every conversation what she learns about life with dementia. She encourages everyone not only to watch these videos, but to include those living with dementia in conversations and to listen closely to their insights. They know dementia better than anyone.

For a Complete List of Dementia Chats Videos – Click Here

Lori La Bey Can Help Your Organization Switch To Virtual Presentations For Staff Trainings, Family Support, Perspective Clients and Support Gatherings.

Upcoming Public Events Lori La Bey Will Be At:

See What Others Have Say About Lori La Bey

I want to echo the thanks and appreciation of my colleagues… Your presentations were movingly authentic, fully engaging and wonderfully informative. Thank you for all that you are doing, and all that you’ve done for us!

Carla Koehl, Director of Community Relations – Artis Senior Living of Lexington

 “Feedback from the conference planning committee and our leadership team was extremely positive. Many attendees commented that she was one of the best speakers they had heard.” 

Pat Sylvia, Director of Education & Member Development LeadingAge WA

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We would love to here your thoughts and comments on this tip.

                                            Diana Pierce and Lori La Bey

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Improving Quality of Care & Life

Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio – Shifting dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world one episode at a time by raising all voices and delivering sounds news, not just sound bites since 2011.

Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 –

2pm ET, 1pm CT, 12pm MT, 11am PT & 7pm London

Click Below To Listen To Show

Lori La Bey, host of Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio talks with Phyllis Ayman, who is a speech/language pathologist, speaker, author, and trainer.  Her focus is on improving dignity, quality of care and quality of life for the 1.4 million people who live in our nation’s nursing homes.  She is devoted to providing families with valuable information so they can make informed care choices and become effective advocates for those they love. 

Contact Phyllis Ayman –       

Website:

 www.phyllisaymanassociates.com

Email:  

phyllis@voiceforeldercare.com     

Blog:  

www.phylliseldercare.info/blog 

Support Alzheimer’s Speaks work by Downloading the Song “Clarion Call” by the Mark Arneson Band featuring Mia Dorr on your favorite msuic APP.

July 16th – Join Lori La Bey

& Artis Senior Living

Lori La Bey Can Help Your Organization Switch To Virtual Presentations For Staff Trainings, Family Support, Perspective Clients and Support Gatherings.

Accepting Dementia in Your Life

Watch the Video Below

For a Complete List of Dementia Chats Videos Click Here

2 FREE SERVICE OFFERS BELOW

We would love to here your thoughts and comments on this tip.

Do You Like to Sing, Humm or Dance?

See What Others Have Say About Lori La Bey

I want to echo the thanks and appreciation of my colleagues… Your presentations were movingly authentic, fully engaging and wonderfully informative. Thank you for all that you are doing, and all that you’ve done for us!

Carla Koehl, Director of Community Relations – Artis Senior Living of Lexington

 “Feedback from the conference planning committee and our leadership team was extremely positive. Many attendees commented that she was one of the best speakers they had heard.” 

Pat Sylvia, Director of Education & Member Development LeadingAge WA

For More Testimonial

                                            Diana Pierce and Lori La Bey

Downloadable Tips Below

Find A Memory Café In Your Area

Push Dementia Forward – Participate!

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The Power of Compassionate Touch

Click Below To Listen Thursday – Aug. 29th, 2019 2pm EST, 1pm CST, 12pm MST, 11am PST & 7pm London and on the 30th at 6am Australia. All Shows are Archived for Ease of Access.

Click Above to Go To The Show

Join Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio where true talk radio thrives covering sound information, not sound bites. Host, Lori La Bey will be talking with Beth Propp, RN and AGEucate Training Institute Certified Master Trainer. Today we will have a very important conversation about the importance of touch for those living with dementia and those that care for them.

Contact Information for Compassionate Touch & AGE-u-cate

Contact Person: Mary Petersen, Director of Client Engagement

Phone:  817.857.1157 ext. 204

Email:  Mary.Petersen@ageucate.com

Website: www.AGEucate.com

AGEucate Training Institute:  Bedford, TX h

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What Questions Do You Have For Those Living With Dementia?

Let Us Know and We Will Do a Chat on The Topic!

Juggling Dementia Care &

Finding Balance

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UPCOMING PUBLIC EVENTS WITH LORI LA BEY:

Coming to Woodbury, MN – Sept 25th and 26th

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Coming to Toms River, NJ – Oct 8th and 9th

Coming to Elmhurst, IL – Oct 16th & 17th

More Information to Come

Schedule Your Next Event with Lori La Bey https://www.alzheimersspeaks.com/contact-us

Diana Pierce and Lori La Bey

See what LeadingAge has to say about Lori La Bey

 “Feedback from the conference planning committee and our leadership team was extremely positive. Many attendees commented that she was one of the best speakers they had heard.” 

Pat Sylvia, Director of Education & Member Development LeadingAge WA

For More Testimonial

Fight Alzheimer’s Together

Push Dementia Forward – Participate!

Find A Memory Café In Your Area

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Voices from the Trenches – CNA’s Speak Out

CNA’s Speak Out on Dementia

Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio

Corey Rotella began her work in long term care 2008, as a caregiver on the memory care unit. It quite literally changed her life. She is a member of the Alzheimer’s association, a co-author of both the blog and book CNA edge: A voice from the trenches of long term care.

Contact Corey Rotella:

visionaries76@gmail.com           coreyannerotella@gmail.com         

Buy the Book on Amazon

Meet Me in Orange County on June 4th

Can’t Make It?  You can Still Have An Impact. 

Sponsor me to help raise fund for Women’s Research on Dementia

At Maria Shriver’s Move For Minds Event

Learn How You Can Host A Screening of the Hollywood Film

“His Neighbor Phil”

4 Pillars of Prevention

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Alzheimer’s Disease – Like The Heart Of An Onion

By Lori La Bey found of Alzheimer’s Speaks

This is a story I wrote about a visit with my Mother with Alzheimer’s years ago.

She is now passed and I do miss her so.

I went to visit my Mother today at Maplewood Care Center, her nursing home.  It’s hard to believe she has been there since 2001, and that she asked to move into the nursing home.  Who would have thought?  Surely not me, Mom was always going to live with us. Nine years in the nursing home has been an incredible journey of friendship, love, and awakening.    Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined my Mother’s path would change my career and my way of life, but it did and I can’t thank her enough for what she has taught me through her illness.

Today when I went to visit Mom it was just prior to supper time.  I decided to pick up a Hot Fudge Sundae from Mc Donald’s for her anyways.  She loves her Sundaes from McDonald’s chipped teeth and all.  As I scooped the ice cream with the black plastic spoon that came with the sundae, I was anticipating Mom’s smile once her lips felt the cold.  Instead, Mom’s lips popped open and closed around the spoon.  I gently pulled the spoon out from the lips that trapped it as the ice cream melted in her mouth.  My wrist soon turned to scoop another serving of hot fudge, and I saw Mom winkle her face like crisp dollar bill being scrunched in a powerful hand.   Today It was evident the cold was causing her pain, yet she wanted more.  I guess the fudge out weighted the pain, for today anyways.

After dessert was gone we went onto the main course.  Chow mien, peas and carrots, a whipped fruit salad, all per aide.  The baby food texture does nothing for my pallet, but it works well for Mom and she doesn’t seem to mine.  Who am I to complain anyways, especially when I know she can’t chew with her dilapidated teeth.  As I chatted with Mom and the staff I noticed one of my favorite people was missing from the dining room.

“Where’s  Lillian?” I asked.

“Oh she passed about two weeks ago.” One of the staff said in a soft compassionate voice.  My heart sunk to my toes.  I hadn’t seen Lillian in the past month between being out of town and visiting Mom later at night when she was in her room.  I felt horrible I hadn’t looked for Lillian when I was there.  My mind raced knowing there was no way of going back in time. I will miss Lillian, she made my heart smile.Lillian had befriended my Mother, watching and checking up on her throughout the years.  When I would come to visit Mom, Lillian would scurry over, grab my hand, look deep into my eyes, and share stories with me. Her soft loving smile positioned on her aged and wrinkled face was one of my favorite things to see.  Some days Lillian would sit and visit with Mom and me, other times she thought I was her daughter.  On these occasions she would grab my hand, lead me off to a private setting where we could sit next to each other holding hands and sharing stories uninterrupted.  Lillian’s crystal blue eyes could calm a tornado and her soft smile framed a strong and amazing woman who was a gift to know.  It was just in the last year Lillian started to fail physically losing her balance; needing a walker; which many times she would forget was hers.  Lillian was the elder, the wise one on the floor loving and caring for those around her until the day she died. If I’m not mistaken, she recently turned 104 years old.  I would have loved to have met her family, but it’s not likely now.  I will miss her beautiful crystal blues eyes, her soft fail hands that would reach for mine, and her compassionate voice like that of an angel.

Losing Lillian has made me realize, Mom could go any time.  Mentally, I’ve known this, but the loss of Lillian made the thought sink into every pour of my being.  One day, there may be no reason to go to the nursing home.  Mom will not be waiting for me.  She will not surprise me with subtle facial expressions, or a goofy comment, or a little giggle that lightens my spirit.  What in the world will I do when the time comes for Mom to pass?

I know many think I should be relieved as I am released from this “Caregiver Role.”  They view this journey I’ve been on with my Mother as a burden.  But truth be told, I will deeply miss her.  I will miss that shell of a body that is all many people see.  For me there is so much more to Mom than her shell.  I guess I see Alzheimer’s disease like peeling an onion.  There are many layers and like the heart of the onion the soul of a person is always in the middle and never dies first.

For More Information on Dementia and Caregiving Click Below.

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No Regrets: Nursing Home Care

By:Michelle Remold

There are a few things that lead to the blog topic this week. I read a book, My Mother’s Hip: Lessons from the World of Eldercare by Luisa Margolies, for my Nursing Home Administration class. It was a good book and I would recommend it. I also had a few discussions that led me to this topic.

We all want to do what is best for ourselves and for those we love. The decisions aren’t always easy to make, but we have to trust we will do what is best. It could be packing up and moving to another state, deciding on which college to go to, or for the purposes of this blog, placing someone in a nursing home. It’s easy to think that once your loved one needs nursing home care that you’ll know and it will be a fairly easy transition. Pick a facility and move them in, how hard can that be? The answer is extremely hard. Not only do you have to pick a good facility, but also deal with the emotions that may accompany that transition, especially guilt.

I know it is easier said than done to not feel guilty. I know when my grandpa first went into the nursing home everyone felt guilty for having to put him there. The fact was he had sun downers and was constantly busy. It got to the point where caring for him at home wasn’t feasible any longer. They felt so guilty for putting my grandpa in the nursing home that after a few months they moved him back home; only to have to move him again. Having my grandpa in the nursing home was what was best for everyone. It kept him safe, happy, and healthy and gave everyone else a chance to regroup and not always have an eye on what grandpa was doing. While it was what was best, it still wasn’t an easy decision. I cannot imagine how hard it would be to put someone in a nursing home, but when it comes down to their safety and health and the health of the caregiver you have to do what is best.

There comes a point where one has done all they can to care for their loved one at home, but if it gets to be too much, putting them in a nursing home might be the best option. It needs to be decided what will keep them the safest and the healthiest and that might involve a nursing home. I don’t think anyone should feel guilty for making this choice;  it is made out of love and concern.

Michelle graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts in Gerontology: Social Sciences and a minor in Family Studies. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Aging Studies and Nursing Home Administration from Minnesota State University Mankato.

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Dementia: How to Protect Your Family Member in a Nursing Home

Dementia:

How to Protect Your Family Member

in a Nursing Home

Written by: Alan Brady

One of the hardest things to face as an adult is seeing a parent, or other family members grow older—and thus acquire complications. I know, because I’ve been there. It can be a long battle; but it doesn’t mean the end of your relationship with your loved one.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, there can be a lot of confusion and heartache circulating your thoughts and actions. The first step you need to do is educate yourself on Alzheimer’s and dementia; this will help you understand what your loved one is going through, and can better prepare you for the progressing steps ahead.

And what if you are not able to be the caregiver for your loved one? Or what if you thought you could handle the new responsibility, only to find it was a little more than you could handle? When do you need to decide if a nursing home is okay for your loved one?

Before the Process

If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia while in the hospital, most doctors or physicians will tell you that you have 24 to 48 hours to find a nursing home. This is not true; you are set that limit because the hospital is paid a flat-fee, and if you stay longer than the allotted time, they have to pay more. Take the time you need to find the appropriate and best care for your loved one.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Nursing Home

You might have heard stories and read news about nursing home occupants who have been mentally, physically, and emotionally hurt by incompetent or uncaring employees and facilities. Family’s that have needed to contact the police or a nursing home abuse attorney to find their family member justice and compensation. It’s an unfortunate fact that your family member might be unable to report how they are treated. This makes choosing the right nursing home vital. This article should ensure that your family member will be placed in a facility that will ensure their care.

Key Points When Choosing a Home

When you’re looking at different nursing homes, there are different things to look at and consider. By taking a look at these points, you’ll know exactly what kind of a home that your loved one is living at.

·         You should start by checking out the Nursing Home Compare program provided by the Medicare website. This online programs allow you to view if they have any recent penalties, what they scored on their last inspection, and how they rate in comparison to other nursing homes in the area.

·         Look at the staffing. Especially if your loved one is diagnosed with dementia—they are going to be in need of constant care. Look at the ratio of aid to patients on the nursing home compare website. Ask the employees how often they switch patients. You can also find this information on the Nursing Home Compare website. You’re paying the money—make sure you are getting what you ask for.

·         Most nursing homes don’t have one committed staff member to one patient. Because staff may switch on your loved one, they may become restless. If you want to discuss this policy, make sure to do so before you decide the nursing home.

·         Look at the room situation. Most nursing homes will have two people sharing a room, each with their own TV. If you are a little weary of it being too loud and too overbearing, talk to the staffing, and ask how this (if at all) it can be accommodated.

·         Take note of the smell. It should smell like a nicely kept home—not either a cleaner bath or a bathroom pit.

·         Look at the activities they have to offer. They should offer more than just a bingo night!

·         Medicare and Medicaid. These are two of the scariest words in health—knowledge is power here. Ask about the coverage offered in the nursing home, and how you can plan out a payment agreement. By knowing every little piece of information that the nursing home offers, you’re preparing yourself for any oversights.

You’ve picked the Home

Now what? You may not know exactly what to do after your loved one is placed in a home, and that’s okay! You need to remind yourself that you aren’t superman, and that you can’t be everywhere at once. Here are some pointers into making sure your loved one receives the best care:

·         Visit as much as you can. It’s been shown those family members that are more active in the patient’s life will receive the best and most attentive care from the staff.

·         Visit during meal time—this way you can see what a day to day routine looks like for your loved one.

·         Bring in their own bedding, pillows, and any furniture that they may find comfort in while they are there. Of course, you’ll need to talk to the staff about things that may not be brought in—but in most cases, these things are allowed, and encouraged.

·         Don’t forget pictures, stuffed animals, etc. These can also be helpful to the staff caring for your loved one—they can bring up other things to talk about besides their daily routine.

·         Write your loved ones name on every item that they bring in (if you can). Theft is a pretty big deal in nursing homes. This way, you can keep track of their belongings.

How to Deal with Dementia

The actual process of dementia can be a struggle to deal with and handle—especially when seeing a loved one go through this disease. By gaining the information from this disease, you’ll be at a better place to help your loved one battle it.

·         Know the progression of the disease: loss of physical ability and memory will fade.

·         Be patient: your loved one will become slower; offer the comfort needed.

·         Be patient with yourself: take breaks, exercise, play games with your loved one. Remember  that you can still have fun with your loved one!

There are obviously many more steps to dealing with and handling dementia with a loved one, but these are key points to remember. By accepting what is happening, by gaining the knowledge, and by being patient with yourself and your loved one, this can be an easier battle. And remember: you are not alone in this.

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Happy World Alzheimer’s Day!

Pull Your Purple Out!  

Pull out your purple so you can show your support for World Alzheimer’s Day today.   Help break the silence and extend your hands in support of this chronic illness and all who are dealing with it.  Get ready to chat it up and spread the word about Alzheimer’s disease.   If you are able, donate to the cause.  Show your support by volunteering or contribute financially to one of the many organizations and foundations.    

Everyone needs compassion.  Don’t let a of lack of expression or response determine ones ability to connect.   

All it takes is a mil-a-second and things can change.  

  

Need resources for yourself or a friend check out the Alzheimer’s Speaks Resource website:  

http://www.AlzheimersSpeaks.com  

Need a list of organizations check out the following link on our resource website Alzheimer’s Speaks:  

http://www.alzheimersspeaks.com/idx/links/topicDetails.asp?id=164#Organizations%20&%20Foundations  

Check out Alzheimer’s Speaks on YouTube:  

http://www.youtube.com/user/AlzheimersSpeaks

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