Medication and Dementia in Sarasota Florida
Q: My wife has high blood pressure and dementia. She takes Aricept, Lasix, Norvasc, and Digoxin. Last week our family doctor prescribed Detrol, a medication for urinary incontinence. She seems more confused and has started hallucinating. Can the symptoms be related to the new medication?
I have directed your question to Miguel Rivera MD, a psychiatrist who works with seniors throughout the ALF’s and nursing homes in town. He is working to develop alternative protocols for dealing with various dementia behaviors.
A: Absolutely. All medications for urinary incontinence belong to a class of drug called ANTICHOLINERGICS. These medications can cause significant side effects in the older population including confusion, hallucinations, constipation, falls, etc. Anticholinergics directly oppose the action of one of the most important neurotransmitters in the entire nervous system, Acetylcholine.
Read more →Home Care Assistance for Veterans in Sarasota Florida
Q. As a Veteran, am I eligible for any in home care assistance?
J. Barfield – Sarasota
A. Yes, But- According to a VA analysis, only 27 percent of veterans and 14 percent of widowers who are likely eligible, actually receive any money from the Veterans Non-Service Connected Improved Pension Benefit Program.
Established to assist qualified veterans, [...]
Staying Independent – Housing Options in Sarasota Florida
Question: While my wife and I had hoped we could remain in our home until we die, we fear we may have to leave our home of 52 years and move into a place that offers help if we should need it. How can we know if we are making the right decision?
Marvin S. Sarasota, [...]
The Heart and Science Behind Interactive Caregiving in Sarasota, Florida
The Comfort Keepers® approach to in-home care is centered around a concept called Interactive Caregiving™. Study after study demonstrates how the principles behind this active approach to in-home care can help seniors maintain their independence, enhance their wellbeing, maintain their mental and emotional vitality, and help them enjoy a better quality of life at home.
Staying [...]
Hiring In-Home Alzheimer’s Care Help in Bradenton Florida
Q. My spouse has Alzheimer’s and I am feeling overwhelmed. I am afraid to have strangers into the home to care for him, but I am getting so tired. Where should I begin?
Margaret S. – Bradenton FL
There are now more than five million people in the United States living with Alzheimer’s disease, which is a [...]