How can a chronic illness affect my sex life?
A chronic illness is a health problem that you have over a long period of time, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis or cancer.
People who have a chronic illness can feel tired and depressed a lot of the time. They may have pain, stiffness or trouble sleeping. They may need medicines or other treatments that can affect their sex life. They may have a surgery that changes how their body looks. As a result, they may feel less interested in sex, or they may not enjoy sex like they used to.
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Suggestions for keeping your sex life healthy if you have a chronic illness
Read about your illness. There are many self-help books that discuss sex and specific chronic illnesses. You can also join a support group to talk about your illness.
If you have a chronic health problem, the following might help you get ready for sexual activity:
* Plan sexual activity for the time of day when you have the most energy and your health problem bothers you the least.
* Be sure that you are rested and relaxed.
* Wait at least 2 hours after you eat to have sex.
* If you need pain medicine to feel better, take the medicine 30 minutes before sexual activity.
* Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and avoid using tobacco in any form. Alcohol and tobacco can affect sexual function.
The following might help you maintain your sex life:
* Hold hands, hug and touch your partner, even when you do not plan to have sex.
* Use your senses to make sexual activity more enjoyable. For example, have satin sheets on the bed, light scented candles or play music.
* Tell your partner what you like and do not like. Listen to your partner's likes and dislikes.
* Try different sexual positions to find positions that are comfortable for you and your partner or use pillows for comfort.
* Try personal lubricants (one brand name: K-Y Jelly) to help reduce discomfort with sexual intercourse.
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Talking to your partner
Even with the best of intentions and preparation, there may be times during your illness when you decide that you do not want to be sexually active. Talk to your partner about how you feel and why you feel that way. Talk about how you can help your partner deal with his or her feelings and interest in sexual activity.
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Talking to your doctor
Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have about your sex life. Your doctor may have some suggestions that can help.
Be sure to let your doctor know if you are feeling depressed or if you think that side effects from a medicine are affecting your sex life.
Selasa, 26 Agustus 2008
Heart Attack: Getting Back Into Your Life After a Heart Attack
How soon can I return to my regular activities?
The amount of activity you can do after a heart attack will be based on the condition of your heart. Your doctor will work with you to develop a recovery plan. Most people can return to work and the activities they enjoy within a few months of having a heart attack. Others may have to limit their activity if the heart muscle is very weak.
You will need to start slowly. For the first few days after your heart attack, you may need to rest and let your heart heal. As your heart heals, you'll be ready to start moving around again. A few days after your heart attack, your doctor may want you to move around more. You may do stretching exercises and get up and walk. You'll then slowly become more active based on advice from your doctor.
Once you've gotten through the early period after a heart attack, your doctor may talk to you about how to be active within your limits. Your doctor will probably want you to do an exercise test, also called a stress test. During this test, your doctor will ask you to exercise (usually walking on a treadmill) while he or she monitors your heart. Based on the results, your doctor will develop an exercise plan for you.
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How can I improve my recovery plan?
Your doctor may recommend that you get involved in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Cardiac rehabilitation programs are supervised by exercise specialists. Many hospitals sponsor these programs to get people started with a safe level of exercise after a heart attack. After a while, you'll probably be able to exercise on your own. But if you have any of the symptoms listed in the box below, call your doctor. You may be working too hard.
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Exercise alert!
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms during exercise:
* Shortness of breath for more than about 10 minutes
* Chest pain or pain in your arms, neck, jaw or stomach
* Dizzy spells
* Pale or splotchy skin
* Very fast heart beat or an irregular heart beat
* Cold sweats
* Nausea and vomiting
* Weakness or fainting
* Swelling or pain in your legs
Why is exercise so important?
Exercise strengthens your heart muscle. It can also boost your energy, help you feel more in control of your health and help you lose weight and keep it off. Exercise may also lower your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol level.
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What kind of exercise is good?
The best types of exercise are those that involve your whole body, such as walking, cycling, jogging, cross-country skiing or swimming. Your doctor or rehabilitation therapists may also prescribe activities to increase your strength and flexibility.
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Risk factors for another heart attack
Taking charge of the things that put you at risk for another heart attack can help you feel better and reduce your risk of future problems. The following factors can put you at risk for another heart attack:
* Not exercising
* Alcohol in excessive amounts
* Being overweight or obese
* High cholesterol level
* High blood sugar level if you have diabetes
* High blood pressure
* Smoking
* Too much stress in your life
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How often should I exercise?
This depends on your exercise plan. You'll probably start slowly and gradually add to your routine. Your doctor may want you to exercise 3 or 4 times a week for about 10 to 30 minutes at a time. Be sure to warm up before exercising by stretching for 5 minutes or more.
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What can I do to speed my recovery and stay healthy?
What is a "MET"?
You may hear your doctor talk about METs when he or she discusses your activity level. METs stands for "metabolic equivalents." Different activities are given different MET levels depending on how much energy they take to do (see below). The higher the MET level, the more energy the activity takes. Your doctor may ask you not to do things that take more than 3 or 3.5 METs right after your heart attack.
MET Activities
Sitting in a chair 1.0
Sweeping the floor 1.5
Driving a car 2.0
Ironing 3.5
Showering 3.5
Bowling 3.5
Sex 3.7-5.0
Golfing 4.0
Gardening 4.5
Playing tennis 6.0
Lawn mowing 6.5
Shoveling 7.0
Skiing 8.0
Your doctor will probably recommend that you make some changes in your diet, such as cutting back on fat and cholesterol and watching how much salt you eat. If you smoke, you will have to quit. Your doctor may also suggest that you learn better ways to deal with stress, such as time management, relaxation training and deep breathing.
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When can I go back to work?
Most people go back to work within 1 to 3 months after having a heart attack. The amount of time you are off from work depends on the condition of your heart and how strenuous or stressful your work is. You may have to make some changes in how you do your job or you may have to change jobs, at least for a short time, if your job is too hard on your heart.
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What about sex?
You can probably start having sex again in 3 to 4 weeks after your heart attack. As with other types of activity, you may need to start out slowly and work your way back into your normal patterns.
Don't be afraid of sex because of your heart attack. Try different positions if one position seems to make you uncomfortable. Let your partner be on top to reduce the amount of energy you use during sex. Talk with your doctor if you or your partner have any concerns.
The amount of activity you can do after a heart attack will be based on the condition of your heart. Your doctor will work with you to develop a recovery plan. Most people can return to work and the activities they enjoy within a few months of having a heart attack. Others may have to limit their activity if the heart muscle is very weak.
You will need to start slowly. For the first few days after your heart attack, you may need to rest and let your heart heal. As your heart heals, you'll be ready to start moving around again. A few days after your heart attack, your doctor may want you to move around more. You may do stretching exercises and get up and walk. You'll then slowly become more active based on advice from your doctor.
Once you've gotten through the early period after a heart attack, your doctor may talk to you about how to be active within your limits. Your doctor will probably want you to do an exercise test, also called a stress test. During this test, your doctor will ask you to exercise (usually walking on a treadmill) while he or she monitors your heart. Based on the results, your doctor will develop an exercise plan for you.
Return to top
How can I improve my recovery plan?
Your doctor may recommend that you get involved in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Cardiac rehabilitation programs are supervised by exercise specialists. Many hospitals sponsor these programs to get people started with a safe level of exercise after a heart attack. After a while, you'll probably be able to exercise on your own. But if you have any of the symptoms listed in the box below, call your doctor. You may be working too hard.
Return to top
Exercise alert!
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms during exercise:
* Shortness of breath for more than about 10 minutes
* Chest pain or pain in your arms, neck, jaw or stomach
* Dizzy spells
* Pale or splotchy skin
* Very fast heart beat or an irregular heart beat
* Cold sweats
* Nausea and vomiting
* Weakness or fainting
* Swelling or pain in your legs
Why is exercise so important?
Exercise strengthens your heart muscle. It can also boost your energy, help you feel more in control of your health and help you lose weight and keep it off. Exercise may also lower your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol level.
Return to top
What kind of exercise is good?
The best types of exercise are those that involve your whole body, such as walking, cycling, jogging, cross-country skiing or swimming. Your doctor or rehabilitation therapists may also prescribe activities to increase your strength and flexibility.
Return to top
Risk factors for another heart attack
Taking charge of the things that put you at risk for another heart attack can help you feel better and reduce your risk of future problems. The following factors can put you at risk for another heart attack:
* Not exercising
* Alcohol in excessive amounts
* Being overweight or obese
* High cholesterol level
* High blood sugar level if you have diabetes
* High blood pressure
* Smoking
* Too much stress in your life
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How often should I exercise?
This depends on your exercise plan. You'll probably start slowly and gradually add to your routine. Your doctor may want you to exercise 3 or 4 times a week for about 10 to 30 minutes at a time. Be sure to warm up before exercising by stretching for 5 minutes or more.
Return to top
What can I do to speed my recovery and stay healthy?
What is a "MET"?
You may hear your doctor talk about METs when he or she discusses your activity level. METs stands for "metabolic equivalents." Different activities are given different MET levels depending on how much energy they take to do (see below). The higher the MET level, the more energy the activity takes. Your doctor may ask you not to do things that take more than 3 or 3.5 METs right after your heart attack.
MET Activities
Sitting in a chair 1.0
Sweeping the floor 1.5
Driving a car 2.0
Ironing 3.5
Showering 3.5
Bowling 3.5
Sex 3.7-5.0
Golfing 4.0
Gardening 4.5
Playing tennis 6.0
Lawn mowing 6.5
Shoveling 7.0
Skiing 8.0
Your doctor will probably recommend that you make some changes in your diet, such as cutting back on fat and cholesterol and watching how much salt you eat. If you smoke, you will have to quit. Your doctor may also suggest that you learn better ways to deal with stress, such as time management, relaxation training and deep breathing.
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When can I go back to work?
Most people go back to work within 1 to 3 months after having a heart attack. The amount of time you are off from work depends on the condition of your heart and how strenuous or stressful your work is. You may have to make some changes in how you do your job or you may have to change jobs, at least for a short time, if your job is too hard on your heart.
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What about sex?
You can probably start having sex again in 3 to 4 weeks after your heart attack. As with other types of activity, you may need to start out slowly and work your way back into your normal patterns.
Don't be afraid of sex because of your heart attack. Try different positions if one position seems to make you uncomfortable. Let your partner be on top to reduce the amount of energy you use during sex. Talk with your doctor if you or your partner have any concerns.
Grieving: Facing Illness, Death and Other Losses
What is grief?
Grief is a normal, healthy response to loss. One of the greatest losses that can occur is the death of someone you love. Other losses include the loss of your health or the health of someone you care about, or the end of an important relationship, such as a marriage. Healing from a loss involves coming to terms with the loss and the meaning of the loss in your life.
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What are the normal feelings of grief?
Symptoms of grief
* Anger
* Blaming yourself
* Crying spells
* Diarrhea
* Dizziness
* Fast heartbeat
* Feeling like there's a lump in your throat
* Feeling like what's happening around you isn't real
* Headaches
* Hyperventilating -- sighing and yawning
* Nausea
* Not being able to get organized
* Not feeling hungry or losing weight
* Restlessness and irritability
* Sadness or depression
* Seeing images of the dead person
* Shortness of breath
* Tightness in your chest
* Tiredness
* Trouble concentrating
* Trouble sleeping
As you face a loss, you may have different feelings at different times. These feelings include shock, denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance. You may find yourself going back and forth from one feeling to another. For example, right when it seems that you're starting to accept your loss, you may find yourself feeling sad or guilty again. Your grief may never completely go away. But the pain you feel will lessen with time as you work through these feelings.
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What usually happens first?
In the first hours or days after the loss, you may feel shocked, numb and confused. You may not remember what people have said to you. You may think and act as though the loss hasn't occurred. This is called denial.
As the shock wears off, reality will slowly break through. You'll begin to realize that the loss has happened. It's normal to feel abandoned and angry. You may direct your anger toward God, religion, doctors and nurses, the one who has died or other loved ones, or even yourself.
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What happens after the anger wears off?
After you get through some of the anger and denial, it's normal to pretend things are like they used to be. If someone you love has died, you may play memories over and over in your mind. You may also feel the presence of your loved one, think you see him or her, or think you hear his or her voice.
You may also find yourself talking to your loved one as though he or she were in the room with you. As you begin to realize that your loved one is gone and won't be back, you'll begin to feel the full impact of your loss. These feelings may be scary because they're so strange and so strong. They may make you feel like you're losing control.
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What happens then?
When you begin to realize the full impact of the loss on your life, you may feel depressed and hopeless. You may also feel guilty. You may find yourself thinking things like "if only" or "why me?" You may cry for no apparent reason. This is the most painful stage of healing, but it won't last forever. In normal grief, the depression will begin to lift with time.
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What is the first sign of relief?
You may start to feel better in small ways. For example, you may find it's a little easier to get up in the morning, or you may have small bursts of energy. This is the time when you'll begin to reorganize your life around your loss or without your loved one.
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What is the final stage?
Tips on dealing with a loss
* Talk about how you're feeling with others.
* Try to keep up with your daily tasks so you don't feel overwhelmed.
* Get enough sleep, eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly.
* Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can make you feel more depressed.
* Get back into your normal routine as soon as you can.
* Avoid making major decisions right away.
* Allow yourself to grieve--to cry, to feel numb, to be angry or to feel however you're feeling.
* Ask for help if you need it.
The last stage of accepting a loss is when you begin to reinvest in other relationships and activities. During this time, it's normal to feel guilty or disloyal to your loved one because you're moving on to new relationships. It's also normal to relive some of your feelings of grief on birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and during other special times.
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How long does grief last?
You'll probably start to feel better in 6 to 8 weeks. The whole process can last anywhere from 6 months to 4 years.
If you feel like you're having trouble at any point, ask for help. People who can help include friends, family, clergy, a counselor or therapist, support groups and your family doctor.
Be sure to talk with your family doctor if you have a lot of trouble eating, sleeping or concentrating for more than the first couple of weeks. These can be signs of depression. Your family doctor can help you with depression so you can start to feel better.
Grief is a normal, healthy response to loss. One of the greatest losses that can occur is the death of someone you love. Other losses include the loss of your health or the health of someone you care about, or the end of an important relationship, such as a marriage. Healing from a loss involves coming to terms with the loss and the meaning of the loss in your life.
Return to top
What are the normal feelings of grief?
Symptoms of grief
* Anger
* Blaming yourself
* Crying spells
* Diarrhea
* Dizziness
* Fast heartbeat
* Feeling like there's a lump in your throat
* Feeling like what's happening around you isn't real
* Headaches
* Hyperventilating -- sighing and yawning
* Nausea
* Not being able to get organized
* Not feeling hungry or losing weight
* Restlessness and irritability
* Sadness or depression
* Seeing images of the dead person
* Shortness of breath
* Tightness in your chest
* Tiredness
* Trouble concentrating
* Trouble sleeping
As you face a loss, you may have different feelings at different times. These feelings include shock, denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance. You may find yourself going back and forth from one feeling to another. For example, right when it seems that you're starting to accept your loss, you may find yourself feeling sad or guilty again. Your grief may never completely go away. But the pain you feel will lessen with time as you work through these feelings.
Return to top
What usually happens first?
In the first hours or days after the loss, you may feel shocked, numb and confused. You may not remember what people have said to you. You may think and act as though the loss hasn't occurred. This is called denial.
As the shock wears off, reality will slowly break through. You'll begin to realize that the loss has happened. It's normal to feel abandoned and angry. You may direct your anger toward God, religion, doctors and nurses, the one who has died or other loved ones, or even yourself.
Return to top
What happens after the anger wears off?
After you get through some of the anger and denial, it's normal to pretend things are like they used to be. If someone you love has died, you may play memories over and over in your mind. You may also feel the presence of your loved one, think you see him or her, or think you hear his or her voice.
You may also find yourself talking to your loved one as though he or she were in the room with you. As you begin to realize that your loved one is gone and won't be back, you'll begin to feel the full impact of your loss. These feelings may be scary because they're so strange and so strong. They may make you feel like you're losing control.
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What happens then?
When you begin to realize the full impact of the loss on your life, you may feel depressed and hopeless. You may also feel guilty. You may find yourself thinking things like "if only" or "why me?" You may cry for no apparent reason. This is the most painful stage of healing, but it won't last forever. In normal grief, the depression will begin to lift with time.
Return to top
What is the first sign of relief?
You may start to feel better in small ways. For example, you may find it's a little easier to get up in the morning, or you may have small bursts of energy. This is the time when you'll begin to reorganize your life around your loss or without your loved one.
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What is the final stage?
Tips on dealing with a loss
* Talk about how you're feeling with others.
* Try to keep up with your daily tasks so you don't feel overwhelmed.
* Get enough sleep, eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly.
* Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can make you feel more depressed.
* Get back into your normal routine as soon as you can.
* Avoid making major decisions right away.
* Allow yourself to grieve--to cry, to feel numb, to be angry or to feel however you're feeling.
* Ask for help if you need it.
The last stage of accepting a loss is when you begin to reinvest in other relationships and activities. During this time, it's normal to feel guilty or disloyal to your loved one because you're moving on to new relationships. It's also normal to relive some of your feelings of grief on birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and during other special times.
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How long does grief last?
You'll probably start to feel better in 6 to 8 weeks. The whole process can last anywhere from 6 months to 4 years.
If you feel like you're having trouble at any point, ask for help. People who can help include friends, family, clergy, a counselor or therapist, support groups and your family doctor.
Be sure to talk with your family doctor if you have a lot of trouble eating, sleeping or concentrating for more than the first couple of weeks. These can be signs of depression. Your family doctor can help you with depression so you can start to feel better.
Depression and Older Adults: What It Is and How to Get Help
What is depression?
Sometimes when people feel sad, they say they are "depressed." But depression is more than just feeling sad. It's a medical illness. Someone who has "major" depression has most or all of the symptoms listed in the box below nearly every day, all day, for 2 weeks or longer. There is also a "minor" form of depression that causes less severe symptoms. Both have the same causes and treatment.
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What causes depression?
Symptoms of depression
* No interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy, including sex
* Feeling sad or numb
* Crying easily or for no reason
* Feeling slowed down or feeling restless and irritable
* Feeling worthless or guilty
* Change in appetite; unintended change in weight
* Trouble recalling things, concentrating or making decisions
* Headaches, backaches or digestive problems
* Problems sleeping, or wanting to sleep all of the time
* Feeling tired all of the time
* Thoughts about death or suicide
Your body contains chemicals that help control your moods. When you don't have enough of these chemicals or when your brain doesn't respond to them properly, you may become depressed. Depression can be genetic (meaning it can run in families). Abusing drugs or alcohol can also lead to depression. Some medical problems and medications can lead to depression.
Depression is not a normal part of growing older, but it is common in adults age 65 and over. Retirement, health problems and the loss of loved ones are things that happen to older adults. Feeling sad at these times is normal. But if these feelings persist and keep you from your usual activities, you should talk to your doctor.
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Why is depression in older adults hard to recognize?
It can be hard to tell the difference between depression and illnesses such as dementia. Also, older adults may not talk to their doctor about their sad or anxious feelings because they are embarrassed. But depression is nothing to be embarrassed about. It is not a personal weakness. It's a medical illness that can be treated.
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How is depression diagnosed?
Sometimes depression is first recognized by friends or family members. If you're having symptoms of depression, be sure to tell your doctor. Don't assume he or she will be able to tell that you are depressed just by looking at you. Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, your health and your family's history of health problems. He or she may also give you an exam and do some tests. It is also important to tell your doctor about any medicines that you are taking.
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How is depression treated?
Depression can be treated with medicine or counseling, or with both. These treatments are very effective. Medicine may be particularly important for severe depression. Talk to your doctor about the right treatment for you.
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What if my doctor prescribes medicine?
Medicines used to treat depression are called antidepressants. They correct the chemical imbalance in your brain that causes depression. These medicines usually work very well, but they may have some side effects. The side effects typically decrease with time. Antidepressants can start to work right away, but it may take 6 to 8 weeks before you see the full benefit. Don't stop taking the medicine without checking with your doctor first.
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What about suicide?
Thinking about suicide can be part of depression. Anyone with depression, including older adults, may be at risk for suicide. If you have thoughts about hurting yourself, tell your doctor, friends or family right away, or call your local suicide hot line (listed in your phone book). The thoughts of suicide will go away after the depression is treated.
Sometimes when people feel sad, they say they are "depressed." But depression is more than just feeling sad. It's a medical illness. Someone who has "major" depression has most or all of the symptoms listed in the box below nearly every day, all day, for 2 weeks or longer. There is also a "minor" form of depression that causes less severe symptoms. Both have the same causes and treatment.
Return to top
What causes depression?
Symptoms of depression
* No interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy, including sex
* Feeling sad or numb
* Crying easily or for no reason
* Feeling slowed down or feeling restless and irritable
* Feeling worthless or guilty
* Change in appetite; unintended change in weight
* Trouble recalling things, concentrating or making decisions
* Headaches, backaches or digestive problems
* Problems sleeping, or wanting to sleep all of the time
* Feeling tired all of the time
* Thoughts about death or suicide
Your body contains chemicals that help control your moods. When you don't have enough of these chemicals or when your brain doesn't respond to them properly, you may become depressed. Depression can be genetic (meaning it can run in families). Abusing drugs or alcohol can also lead to depression. Some medical problems and medications can lead to depression.
Depression is not a normal part of growing older, but it is common in adults age 65 and over. Retirement, health problems and the loss of loved ones are things that happen to older adults. Feeling sad at these times is normal. But if these feelings persist and keep you from your usual activities, you should talk to your doctor.
Return to top
Why is depression in older adults hard to recognize?
It can be hard to tell the difference between depression and illnesses such as dementia. Also, older adults may not talk to their doctor about their sad or anxious feelings because they are embarrassed. But depression is nothing to be embarrassed about. It is not a personal weakness. It's a medical illness that can be treated.
Return to top
How is depression diagnosed?
Sometimes depression is first recognized by friends or family members. If you're having symptoms of depression, be sure to tell your doctor. Don't assume he or she will be able to tell that you are depressed just by looking at you. Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, your health and your family's history of health problems. He or she may also give you an exam and do some tests. It is also important to tell your doctor about any medicines that you are taking.
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How is depression treated?
Depression can be treated with medicine or counseling, or with both. These treatments are very effective. Medicine may be particularly important for severe depression. Talk to your doctor about the right treatment for you.
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What if my doctor prescribes medicine?
Medicines used to treat depression are called antidepressants. They correct the chemical imbalance in your brain that causes depression. These medicines usually work very well, but they may have some side effects. The side effects typically decrease with time. Antidepressants can start to work right away, but it may take 6 to 8 weeks before you see the full benefit. Don't stop taking the medicine without checking with your doctor first.
Return to top
What about suicide?
Thinking about suicide can be part of depression. Anyone with depression, including older adults, may be at risk for suicide. If you have thoughts about hurting yourself, tell your doctor, friends or family right away, or call your local suicide hot line (listed in your phone book). The thoughts of suicide will go away after the depression is treated.
Dementia: What Are the Common Signs?
What is dementia?
Dementia is a problem in the brain that makes it hard for a person to remember, learn and communicate. After a while, this makes it hard for the person to take care of himself or herself.
Dementia may also change a person's mood and personality. At first, memory loss and trouble thinking clearly may bother the person who has dementia. Later, disruptive behavior and other problems may start. The person who has dementia may not be aware of these problems.
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What causes dementia?
Dementia is caused by the destruction of brain cells. A head injury, a stroke, a brain tumor or a problem like Alzheimer's disease can damage brain cells. Some people have a family history of dementia.
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What are some common signs of dementia?
Dementia causes many problems for the person who has it and for the person's family. Many of the problems are caused by memory loss. Some common signs of dementia are listed below. Not everyone who has dementia will have all of these signs.
* Recent memory loss. All of us forget things for a while and then remember them later. People with dementia often forget things, but they never remember them. They might ask you the same question over and over, each time forgetting that you've already given them the answer. They won't even remember that they already asked the question.
* Difficulty performing familiar tasks. People who have dementia might cook a meal but forget to serve it. They might even forget that they cooked it.
* Problems with language. People who have dementia may forget simple words or use the wrong words. This makes it hard to understand what they want.
* Time and place disorientation. People who have dementia may get lost on their own street. They may forget how they got to a certain place and how to get back home.
* Poor judgment. Even a person who doesn't have dementia might get distracted. But people who have dementia can forget simple things, like forgetting to put on a coat before going out in cold weather.
* Problems with abstract thinking. Anybody might have trouble balancing a checkbook, but people who have dementia may forget what the numbers are and what has to be done with them.
* Misplacing things. People who have dementia may put things in the wrong places. They might put an iron in the freezer or a wristwatch in the sugar bowl. Then they can't find these things later.
* Changes in mood. Everyone is moody at times, but people with dementia may have fast mood swings, going from calm to tears to anger in a few minutes.
* Personality changes. People who have dementia may have drastic changes in personality. They might become irritable, suspicious or fearful.
* Loss of initiative. People who have dementia may become passive. They might not want to go places or see other people.
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What if I have any of these signs of dementia?
Talk with your doctor. Your doctor can do tests to find out if your signs are caused by dementia. The sooner you know, the sooner you can talk to your doctor about treatment options.
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What if a family member has signs of dementia?
If your family member has some of the signs of dementia, try to get him or her to go see a doctor. You may want to go along and talk with the doctor before your relative sees him or her. Then you can tell the doctor about the way your relative is acting without embarrassing your relative.
Dementia is a problem in the brain that makes it hard for a person to remember, learn and communicate. After a while, this makes it hard for the person to take care of himself or herself.
Dementia may also change a person's mood and personality. At first, memory loss and trouble thinking clearly may bother the person who has dementia. Later, disruptive behavior and other problems may start. The person who has dementia may not be aware of these problems.
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What causes dementia?
Dementia is caused by the destruction of brain cells. A head injury, a stroke, a brain tumor or a problem like Alzheimer's disease can damage brain cells. Some people have a family history of dementia.
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What are some common signs of dementia?
Dementia causes many problems for the person who has it and for the person's family. Many of the problems are caused by memory loss. Some common signs of dementia are listed below. Not everyone who has dementia will have all of these signs.
* Recent memory loss. All of us forget things for a while and then remember them later. People with dementia often forget things, but they never remember them. They might ask you the same question over and over, each time forgetting that you've already given them the answer. They won't even remember that they already asked the question.
* Difficulty performing familiar tasks. People who have dementia might cook a meal but forget to serve it. They might even forget that they cooked it.
* Problems with language. People who have dementia may forget simple words or use the wrong words. This makes it hard to understand what they want.
* Time and place disorientation. People who have dementia may get lost on their own street. They may forget how they got to a certain place and how to get back home.
* Poor judgment. Even a person who doesn't have dementia might get distracted. But people who have dementia can forget simple things, like forgetting to put on a coat before going out in cold weather.
* Problems with abstract thinking. Anybody might have trouble balancing a checkbook, but people who have dementia may forget what the numbers are and what has to be done with them.
* Misplacing things. People who have dementia may put things in the wrong places. They might put an iron in the freezer or a wristwatch in the sugar bowl. Then they can't find these things later.
* Changes in mood. Everyone is moody at times, but people with dementia may have fast mood swings, going from calm to tears to anger in a few minutes.
* Personality changes. People who have dementia may have drastic changes in personality. They might become irritable, suspicious or fearful.
* Loss of initiative. People who have dementia may become passive. They might not want to go places or see other people.
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What if I have any of these signs of dementia?
Talk with your doctor. Your doctor can do tests to find out if your signs are caused by dementia. The sooner you know, the sooner you can talk to your doctor about treatment options.
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What if a family member has signs of dementia?
If your family member has some of the signs of dementia, try to get him or her to go see a doctor. You may want to go along and talk with the doctor before your relative sees him or her. Then you can tell the doctor about the way your relative is acting without embarrassing your relative.
Depression and Alzheimer's Disease
Do people who have Alzheimer's disease become depressed?
Yes. Depression is very common among people who have Alzheimer's disease. In many cases, they become depressed when they realize that their memory and ability to function are getting worse.
Unfortunately, depression may make it even harder for a person who has Alzheimer's disease to function, to remember things and to enjoy life.
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How can I tell if my family member who has Alzheimer's disease is depressed?
It may be difficult for you to know if your family member is depressed. You can look for some of the typical signs of depression, which include the following:
* Not wanting to move or do things (called apathy)
* Expressing feelings of worthlessness and sadness
* Refusing to eat and losing weight
* Sleeping too much or too little
Other signs of depression include crying and being unusually emotional, being angry or agitated, and being confused. Your family member who has Alzheimer's disease may refuse to help with his or her own personal care (for example, getting dressed or taking medicines). He or she may wander away from home more often.
Alzheimer's disease and depression have many symptoms that are alike. It can be hard to tell the difference between them. If you think that depression is a problem for your relative who has Alzheimer's disease, talk to his or her family doctor.
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How can the doctor help?
The doctor will talk with your relative. The doctor will also ask you and other family members and caregivers whether the person has any new or changed behaviors. The doctor will check your relative and may wish to do some tests to rule out other medical problems. He or she may suggest medicines to help your family member feel better. The doctor may also have some advice for you and other family members and caregivers on how to cope. He or she may recommend support groups that can help you.
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What medicines can help reduce depression?
Antidepressant medicines can be very helpful for people who have Alzheimer's disease and depression. These medicines can improve the symptoms of sadness and apathy, and they may also improve appetite and sleep problems. Don't worry--these medicines are not habit-forming. The doctor may also suggest other medicines that can help reduce upsetting problems, such as hallucinations or anxiety.
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What can I do to help my family member?
Try to keep a daily routine for your family member who has Alzheimer's disease. Avoid loud noises and overstimulation. A pleasant environment with familiar faces and mementos helps soothe fear and anxiety. Have a realistic expectation of what your family member can do. Expecting too much can make you both feel frustrated and upset. Let your family member help with simple, enjoyable tasks, such as preparing meals, gardening, doing crafts and sorting photos. Most of all, be positive. Frequent praise for your family member will help him or her feel better--and it will help you as well.
As the caregiver of a person who has Alzheimer's disease, you must also take care of yourself. If you become too tired and frustrated, you will be less able to help your family member. Ask for help from relatives, friends and local community organizations. Respite care (short-term care that is given to the patient who has Alzheimer's disease in order to provide relief for the caregiver) may be available from your local senior citizens' group or a social services agency. Look for caregiver support groups. Other people who are dealing with the same problems may have some good ideas on how you can cope better and on how to make caregiving easier. Adult day care centers may be helpful. They can give your family member a consistent environment and a chance to socialize.
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Where can I learn more about caring for my family member who has Alzheimer's disease?
A book called The 36-Hour Day (Johns Hopkins University Press; 410-516-6900; www.press.jhu.edu) explains Alzheimer's disease and gives information about resources for caregivers. It gives ideas about things you can do to deal with behavior problems in an Alzheimer's patient. One chapter discusses mood disorders and depression in these patients
Yes. Depression is very common among people who have Alzheimer's disease. In many cases, they become depressed when they realize that their memory and ability to function are getting worse.
Unfortunately, depression may make it even harder for a person who has Alzheimer's disease to function, to remember things and to enjoy life.
Return to top
How can I tell if my family member who has Alzheimer's disease is depressed?
It may be difficult for you to know if your family member is depressed. You can look for some of the typical signs of depression, which include the following:
* Not wanting to move or do things (called apathy)
* Expressing feelings of worthlessness and sadness
* Refusing to eat and losing weight
* Sleeping too much or too little
Other signs of depression include crying and being unusually emotional, being angry or agitated, and being confused. Your family member who has Alzheimer's disease may refuse to help with his or her own personal care (for example, getting dressed or taking medicines). He or she may wander away from home more often.
Alzheimer's disease and depression have many symptoms that are alike. It can be hard to tell the difference between them. If you think that depression is a problem for your relative who has Alzheimer's disease, talk to his or her family doctor.
Return to top
How can the doctor help?
The doctor will talk with your relative. The doctor will also ask you and other family members and caregivers whether the person has any new or changed behaviors. The doctor will check your relative and may wish to do some tests to rule out other medical problems. He or she may suggest medicines to help your family member feel better. The doctor may also have some advice for you and other family members and caregivers on how to cope. He or she may recommend support groups that can help you.
Return to top
What medicines can help reduce depression?
Antidepressant medicines can be very helpful for people who have Alzheimer's disease and depression. These medicines can improve the symptoms of sadness and apathy, and they may also improve appetite and sleep problems. Don't worry--these medicines are not habit-forming. The doctor may also suggest other medicines that can help reduce upsetting problems, such as hallucinations or anxiety.
Return to top
What can I do to help my family member?
Try to keep a daily routine for your family member who has Alzheimer's disease. Avoid loud noises and overstimulation. A pleasant environment with familiar faces and mementos helps soothe fear and anxiety. Have a realistic expectation of what your family member can do. Expecting too much can make you both feel frustrated and upset. Let your family member help with simple, enjoyable tasks, such as preparing meals, gardening, doing crafts and sorting photos. Most of all, be positive. Frequent praise for your family member will help him or her feel better--and it will help you as well.
As the caregiver of a person who has Alzheimer's disease, you must also take care of yourself. If you become too tired and frustrated, you will be less able to help your family member. Ask for help from relatives, friends and local community organizations. Respite care (short-term care that is given to the patient who has Alzheimer's disease in order to provide relief for the caregiver) may be available from your local senior citizens' group or a social services agency. Look for caregiver support groups. Other people who are dealing with the same problems may have some good ideas on how you can cope better and on how to make caregiving easier. Adult day care centers may be helpful. They can give your family member a consistent environment and a chance to socialize.
Return to top
Where can I learn more about caring for my family member who has Alzheimer's disease?
A book called The 36-Hour Day (Johns Hopkins University Press; 410-516-6900; www.press.jhu.edu) explains Alzheimer's disease and gives information about resources for caregivers. It gives ideas about things you can do to deal with behavior problems in an Alzheimer's patient. One chapter discusses mood disorders and depression in these patients
Farmers' Almanac Makes 2009 Predictions
By KSPR News
LEWISTON, Maine (AP) - The 2009 edition of the Farmers' Almanac goes on sale this week.
Even though the publication prepares its weather forecasts two years in advance, it claims an 80 to 85-percent accuracy rate.
And this time around, it predicts we could be in for a cold winter.
The almanac says at least two-thirds of the nation can expect colder-than-average temperatures, with only the Far West and Southeast in line for near-normal readings.
It says the Great Lakes and Midwest can look for above-normal snowfall in January and February. And the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions will have an unusually snowy, or at least wet, February.
The almanac says its forecasts are from a reclusive prognosticator who uses a secret formula involving sunspots, planet positions and the tidal pull of the moon. They're backed up by things like acorn abundance and fog frequency.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
Even though the publication prepares its weather forecasts two years in advance, it claims an 80 to 85-percent accuracy rate.
And this time around, it predicts we could be in for a cold winter.
The almanac says at least two-thirds of the nation can expect colder-than-average temperatures, with only the Far West and Southeast in line for near-normal readings.
It says the Great Lakes and Midwest can look for above-normal snowfall in January and February. And the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions will have an unusually snowy, or at least wet, February.
The almanac says its forecasts are from a reclusive prognosticator who uses a secret formula involving sunspots, planet positions and the tidal pull of the moon. They're backed up by things like acorn abundance and fog frequency.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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