Many elderly live on fixed incomes, do not have someone to look out for them, and may be living in a nursing home or an assisted living faci...

Vintage photos from yesteryear provide wonderful reminiscing opportunities for the elderly living with dementia. Remembering the past helps the elderly affirm their lives and uncover deep-seated memories. In this article we cover: Benefits of Reminiscing with Vintage Photos How to Plan a Vintage Photo Reminiscing Activity Vintage Photo Reminiscing - Group Session Vintage Photo Reminiscing - One-on-One Session Download Vintage Photos Samples and Conversation Starters

Someone you know has just taken on the role of caregiver to an elderly person. What do you say? Should you say or ask anything? It may not seem like this would be a life changing event for a person, so why does your friend/sibling/colleague/professor etc. seem so caught up in what they are doing? Well. It is a life changing event. And you may notice the impact as you see the caregiver less, or hear them speak of their caregiving duties more often. If you are wondering how to talk to them about what they do, please, refrain form saying anything like: 1. What Do You Do All Day? Unless you are honestly asking for a detailed list, then you shouldn't ask. Why? Because it implies that a caregiver is either a) lazy or b) bored. Most caregivers would probably LOVE to have one day where they could be bored and lazy. But the truth is they are busy, frazzled multi-tasking maniacs that are doing so many things in one day that they can't even remember them all! A more appropriate question might be: "How do you manage to get everything done in a day?" If you are curious about what goes on in a caregiver's day, then this question will open up a conversation. 2. How Hard Could It Be? Taking care of another adult does not sound hard at all. The sad truth is that sometimes it is even more difficult than taking care of children. Sometimes it isn't physically hard, but it may be emotionally trying. After all, many people take on the role of caregiving knowing that they will be caring for their loved ones up to and after the time of death. That thought alone makes this a very difficult job, and not one to be taken lightly. If you are curious about whether or not caring for the elderly is hard, you might phrase your question this way: "I've heard some people say it was easy, and some say that it was hard. How is it going for you so far?" This gives the person a chance to explain both the ups and downs. 3. You Are Doing the BEST Thing Caregivers hear this a lot. But unless you truly know this person, their situation and their thoughts on it, this remark should be kept behind sealed lips. Why? It can be very reassuring to a caregiver who is struggling to do their best, and hoping they made the right choice by keeping their loved one at home. At the same time, it can be smothering to someone who may be feeling like its time to move their elderly loved one to a facility. Or to someone who is struggling with the fact that they were pressured into caregiving to begin with. If you want to offer reassurance, Nina, a reluctant caregiver for two parents with Alzheimer's, recommends something like this: "I admire what you are doing." As she says, "It feels more flexible to be admired for what we are doing, than to feel like we are being pushed toward martyrdom. When people tell me that I'm doing the best thing, it adds to my stress and guilt. It makes me feel like choosing to put my father into a skilled nursing facility would be deliberately choosing to do something worse for him." 4. I Know How You Feel Unless you have honestly been in the same situation, this standard line should be avoided. Its not that it isn't a nice thing to say, its just that if you really can't relate, the sentiment can feel fake and empty. Josh, who cared for his father during a long battle with cancer, states: "When someone says they know how I feel, then I want to talk about what we both feel. Share some experiences. When I find out they haven't actually been there, then I feel awkward. Its even worse when they come up with something like it was the time their cat was run over by a car or something. That just tells me they want to change the subject. I feel bad about their cat, but its not the same." 5. Isn't That Gross? Well, yes it is, agrees several people who are elderly caregivers. But, they don't want to talk about it with you, unless there is a good reason. (For example, if you have a caregiving tip that will make a task easier to manage.) "Otherwise, I get a little shock when someone asks me something about the gross factor of caregiving. Especially if they ask me how I handle seeing my parent naked." Most people respect their elderly loved ones enough that they don't want to tell strangers about their bodily functions or what its like to change an adult diaper. There actually isn't a better way to phrase this question. Instead, go ahead and say what you really mean: " I'm not sure I could handle doing all the personal stuff." Caregivers will understand! 6. That is What Nursing Homes are For Just don't say it. The choice between caring for an elder at home, or placing them in a nursing home is not an easy one for most people to make. Big surprise! They already knew nursing homes existed before you came along to tell them. They have their reasons for not using them. But they may use one in the future. If you see someone having a bad day caring for their toddler, you (hopefully) wouldn't say; "That's what orphanages are for!" Family caregivers each make a dedicated choice to do what feels right at the moment. It may change as the years go by, but they will figure out on their own when they need to change the way they do things. The nicest alternative you could use would be... "I always thought nursing homes were the only place to age. Its nice to see something different. I wish you the best of luck." Likewise, if a caregiver does place their loved one in long-term care, they don't need to hear statements such as: "I can't believe you did that to your mom/dad when you could've just done it at home." There are so many factors in aging care that prevent a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, trust that the person you know has made a tough decision based on their own family situation, resources, abilities and health. Instead say something respectful, supportive, and truly helpful. Such as: "How about we go have coffee and get your mind off of things for awhile?"

Lead your class in a thought provoking discussion with this RS lesson plan kit! This kit is designed to help you prepare an engaging discussion, while also leaving you with room to follow the Spirit in what the sisters you lead need to hear! Conference study guide and Relief Society lesson helps for "Words Matter" by Elder Ronald A. Rasband from the April 2024 General Conference This DIGITAL DOWNLOAD kit is designed to help you deeply study the words from General Conference and put them into action. It’s perfect for your own personal study or to help you with your teaching. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN MY KIT? You will receive a zipped file which includes: - 6 Paged Study Guide Workbook - Discussion Questions in a variety of formats - FHE Image Page with discussion and ponder questions - QR Code Page - Lesson “Invitation” - Unique Class Handouts - 9 Presentation Slides in jpg format AND in a PowerPoint format - 8x10 Printable Affirmation Quote - 4x6 Printable Affirmation Quote - 4-to a Page Printable Affirmation Quote - Minimalist Black and White Quote - Lesson Image The STUDY WORKBOOK has unique, talk-specific activities that will guide you through studying and applying the principles taught and help you prepare to teach. A variety of DISCUSSION QUESTIONS are included to help you guide a thoughtful and engaged discussion. Beautiful PRESENTATION SLIDES are included with video instructions to help you quickly make a lesson presentation. Blank slides are included for you to customize to the needs of those you teach. Slides come in jpg format and in PowerPoint (.pptx) format. The LESSON OUTLINE is provided in a PDF and Google Docs format and helps you to gather your thoughts and follow the Spirit as you create a lesson that meets the needs of those YOU teach. This kit also includes additional lesson helps: printable affirmation quotes, QR code, unique class handouts and a fun lesson “invitation.” Printable quotes come in a variety of sizes and a printer friendly option. Teaching suggestions are provided for ways you can use your study kit for class, FHE, individual, or couples study. ________________________________________________________________ PRINTING TERMS: Downloads are for personal use only. You may print as many copies as you would like for your own personal, family or classroom use. Printing for any other use, commercial use, re-selling, or any other sharing of printed or digital files is NOT ALLOWED. Please do not share digital files. _____________________________________________________________ WHERE ARE MY FILES? After purchase, you can download your files… … from your Etsy purchases tab - http://www.etsy.com/your/purchases … from your email receipt that was sent to the email on your Etsy account _____________________________________________________________ THE LITTLE DETAILS ***** Please note that this purchase is for a DIGITAL DOWNLOAD and nothing will be shipped. **** You will receive the files to print at home or your favorite printer. Due to the nature of digital files, no refunds are available. Samples shown are a representation of what’s included. The actual questions and content on downloaded files may differ slightly than as shown in samples. The LDS ideas and printables shared here are expressly my own and created by My Upside-down Umbrella. They are not created, provided, approved nor endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Printable exercise routines are an excellent resource for caregivers, offering structured workouts to enhance the physical and mental health of seniors.

Music has been proven to be very beneficial for the elderly in long term care, particularly those living with dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. Here are some wonderful free playlists of famous songs from the 40s, 50s & 60s!

Free printable and questions to ponder as you study “Pillars and Rays” by Elder Dushku

Activities for cognitive stimulation during lockdown at nursing homes or assisted living homes. games, activities and more

Free printable and questions to ponder as you study “Pillars and Rays” by Elder Dushku

It’s no secret that staying active and engaged is important for everyone, especially the elderly. Fortunately, there are a variety of fun games that can keep seniors’ minds sharp while providing an enjoyable activity. From classic board games to more modern tech-based ones, there are many fun and entertaining ways to keep elderly people entertained.

Whiteboards are an indispensable tool for Activity Coordinators and can be used for group activities, communication and learning! In this article we cover: The Advantages of Using Whiteboards Types of Whiteboards How Whiteboards can be used by Activity Coordinators Five Whiteboard Games to Play

Playing games in long term care facilities & nursing homes offers clients much more than just entertainment. The impact that playing games has on the health and well-being of individuals has been well documented. Playing games provides an important source of relaxation, socialization and mental stimulation. In this article we cover: Benefits of Playing Games Adapting Games to Match Abilities 20+ Games for People Living with Dementia

When a senior voices concerns about being cold during the bathing process, it’s not usually because they are being entitled or difficult.

Occupation-based treatments are crucial for OTs, but we can't always do the real thing. Check out these simulated OT treatments to help!

As your residents' dementia progresses, it can be challenging to find appropriate activities that are simple, yet meaningful. Try providing activities that appeal to their five senses. Get more senior activity ideas at notjustbingo.com TODAY!

10 word-finding strategies to practice in speech therapy for anomia and aphasia after stroke. Free download & apps to help.

Looking for senior gift ideas? Here is a selection of gift ideas for nursing home residents for Christmas, birthdays and other occasions.

Let's talk about urgency incontinence! This is urinary leakage associated with a strong urge to pee. It can also be associated with urinary frequency- needing to go to the bathroom all. the. time.

Some dementia and Alzheimers patients experience "sundowning" in the evening. Here are 9 natural tips and ideas to help caregivers deal with your loved one's sundowners syndrome when they live in your home. While it is never fun to see your loved one confused and scared, there are some concrete things we can do to help!

It’s no secret that staying active and engaged is important for everyone, especially the elderly. Fortunately, there are a variety of fun games that can keep seniors’ minds sharp while providing an enjoyable activity. From classic board games to more modern tech-based ones, there are many fun and entertaining ways to keep elderly people entertained.

In room occupational therapy treatment interventions are a necessity when a patient is isolated or you are working with limited supplies.

Let the thrill of the Olympic Games transform your facility into a vibrant hub of activity and enthusiasm for a few days! An Olympic-themed day is a fantastic way to bring excitement and fun to seniors in your facility. Embracing the Olympic spirit promotes camaraderie, physical activity, and mental engagement among your residents. In this article, we cover: How to Plan Your In-House Olympic Games 5 Olympic Games for Staff 5 Olympic Games for Residents Ideas for Olympic Crafts

Aphasia is a communication disorder that results from damage or injury to the brain. A person with aphasia may have trouble understanding, speaking, reading, or writing. In this article we cover: Types of Aphasia 10 Communication Strategies for Activity Staff Aphasia Activity Ideas for Activity Coordinators Printable Activities

Older adults who have trouble swallowing get choked easily and even experience pain when eating. So, here are some easy to swallow foods for elderly people that are nutritious too!

Whether you’ve noticed the beginning phases of a Dowager's hump or it’s already fully formed, try these exercises to treat and reverse it.

Senior isolation can be dangerous. Learn how to combat loneliness in the elderly and how to help a lonely parent.

Be sure to check out our EMBARK Girls Camp posts (based on this year’s youth theme)! A great fit for Girls Camp and full of activities you could use on any weeknight. We’ve all b…

Six Apps Every OTA Student Should Have As scooped from: Here is a back to school resource for OTA students from St. Catherine’s University in Virgina. The OTA Blogger shares “Six Apps E…

With an increasing number of seniors having poor vision, it's necessary to provide more activities that can accommodate residents with limited or low vision. One way to help these residents is by providing activities that involve their other senses. Get more senior activity ideas at notjustbingo.com TODAY!

A couple of overspenders turn to their daughter for financial help, but she doesn't want to help since they aren't even that involved in her life.

Find the Top Tricks to Increase Appetite in Elderly from a Registered Dietitian that has tested all of these with success!

Easy leaf print quote craft for seniors living with early to mid-stage dementia. Simple supplies you probably already have! Great for indiviuals and groups.

Working in occupational therapy and dementia care is such a rewarding area. OTPs can use a variety of tools to help our patients and using puzzles as an

Practical and meaningful, here is a list of useful gift ideas all elderly will apprecaite. You can also take these along to a nursing home or old age home

Learn how to make this snowman in our Keep Discovering Membership! Join us and you can find him in our January Printable bundle!

Offering meditation and other mindfulness activities like yoga or relaxation sessions are great ways to reduce stress and anxiety for seniors. Care Homes are active environments and leave little space for privacy which makes calming anxiety and stress difficult for many living in a care home setting. Mindfulness can be easily incorporated into the day to day routine for residents and should be on the activities calendar at least once a day. In this article we cover: Mindful Body Scan and Seated Meditation Mindful Eating Meditation Music

In OT, you will likely work with patients affected by decreased memory from cognitive impairment. Read on for these top aids and strategies

There are many wonderful things that you can do with your family members - young and old - at home. Some may take a little creativity and perhaps even some products but in the end, it's all about spending time with the ones you love. Activities, especially fun and/or