Have you heard of Abe’s Garden?
I didn’t discover this secret garden until late last year.
U.S.-based Abe’s Garden [5/27/2023: URL Updated] has published a series of videos to help caregivers who care for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Start with These Two Informative FAQ Videos
FAQ: Early Stages of Dementia offers a six-minute overview of what to do after a loved one is diagnosed with early-stage dementia. Tips for caregivers and care recipients, include –
- communicate with your loved one regarding wishes and decisions.
- alter your communication style.
- initiate engaging activities.
- enjoy time with your loved one.
Beverly Patnaik, Director of Staff Training and Community Education, suggests introducing yourself to a person with dementia. If the person is receiving care, s/he may see a lot of people coming and going each day. It becomes more difficult for the person to remember who you are. In Communicating with People with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias, she also recommends that you connect physically by holding their hand. “This is such an integral part of how we touch people… starting in grade school with our best friends… as we get older holding hands is a way to communicate… we’re in this together.”
Let’s not keep this a secret garden serving caregivers and people with dementia.
Share the bounty of this harvest of 3 to 12-minute FAQ and extended-topic videos including Getting Dressed, Dealing with Reactive Behaviors, Exercise, How to Talk to Kids about Alzheimer’s, Bathing Assistance, and more.
To browse all of the videos in Abe’s Garden, visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZc01EWffXkz4yNnYeq1tDQ/videos
