“What I wish I knew about dementia”: A caregiving only child’s experience

“What I wish I knew about dementia”: A caregiving only child’s experience 
The Healthy; by Dr. Patricia Varacallo, DO; 8/20/24 
It's no secret dementia affects the brain of the patient, and tests the hearts of their loved ones. Through one woman's personal journey, experts advise on the emotional, medical, and financial aspects of caregiving for dementia. ... Drawing from Ann’s caregiving journey and insights from Dr. Wint and Lucille Carriere, PhD, Cleveland Clinic Angie Ruvo Endowed Caregiving Chair, we share their collective wisdom on what they wish more people knew about dementia.

• The early signs of dementia ...
• The common misconceptions about dementia ...
• "Dementia and Alzheimer's are interchangeable" ...
• "Nothing can be done about it" ...
• "Alzheimer's and other causes of dementia cannot be diagnosed until after death" ...
• Caregiving for someone with dementia ...
• Available support systems for dementia patients ...
• Navigating care transitions ...
• Financial resources for dementia care ... [includes PACE]

Editor's Note: This article provides excellent talking points you can adapt for your community engagement, education, and utilization (i.e., palliative care philosophy and when it is time for hospice). Additionally, each hospice employee and volunteer is a reference point in their spheres of family and community relationships. Ensure that all (not just clinical) know at least these basics, with when and how your organization can help. [Posted in honor of my Dad, who lived with Alzheimer's with great grace and courage until his death, supported at the end by palliative and hospice care.]