Frontotemporal dementia, also known as FTD, is a less common group of dementias. It affects the front and sides of the brain (the frontal and temporal lobes), which often causes problems with behaviour and language for the person living with FTD. According to the Australian Frontotemporal Dementia Association, between 3,500 and 11,500 Australians are currently estimated to […]
The human body is made up of up to 60% of water. As such, it makes sense that drinking water is important for protecting our health. Drinking enough water helps to ensure that our body has enough water to function, and it also helps to keep the skin hydrated. Drinking water supports a healthy lifestyle, […]
Money can be a sensitive topic for older adults; however, managing finances is often a key role for caregivers. In some cases, an older adult will want to retain their financial independence, even if they are no longer capable of carrying out the tasks required to do this. For example, you may notice that they […]
In our last blog, we discussed some of the main health challenges of ageing. Depression was one of those key challenges. It is thought that between 10 and 15 per cent of older people in Australia experience depression. There are a number of things that older adults can do to overcome depression. While medication and psychotherapy […]
Many of us feel in pretty good shape for our age, and rightly so! We exercise, we eat well, and we look after ourselves. However, despite taking steps to do everything right in terms of our health, as we get older, our bodies start to change, and this can cause problems. While not everyone will […]
According to a 2018 study conducted by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the likelihood of older adults living alone increased with age. 39% of people aged 65–74 lived alone, with this number rising to 40% of 75–84 year olds, and 51% of those aged over 85. For caregivers, looking after a relative who […]
In the early stages of dementia many people will still function independently. For example, they will likely still be able to drive, socialise, and perhaps even work. At this stage of dementia, the role of the caregiver is to provide companionship and support to the person, as well as to help them with future planning. […]
As we age, most of us prefer to stay in our own homes for as long as possible. There are many benefits for older adults that are associated with staying at home and maintaining independence. If you, or an older relative is starting to experience age-related changes that are impacting daily life, it is important […]
People often get confused between the terms ‘dementia’ and ‘Alzheimer’s disease,’ with many thinking that these are interchangeable terms. However, while Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia, there are many other different types of dementia that arise from a different cause. The Difference Between the Terms Dementia: Dementia is an umbrella term that is […]
Choosing between assisted living and in-home care can be a tough decision for older people and their families. The choice will ultimately come down to a number of factors, dependant on the unique circumstances of the older adult. In-home care is when seniors stay in their own home with formal or informal caregivers who assist […]