CARE GIVING

Where to Find Help for the Elderly and Caregivers Part 3: Living Well Companion Care

Susan LeDoux Posted on by

Sometimes a little help here and there makes it possible for the elderly to remain at home rather than move into a facility. I spoke with Mary Terwilliger, Executive Director of Living Well Companion Care, about this service line of … Continue reading →

Ten Tips for Communicating with People with Dementia

Susan LeDoux Posted on by

I raised my voice, as if I my friend could understand me better if I turned up the volume.  Turns out, there are far better ways to communicate with the confused and demented, as I learned from a presentation sponsored … Continue reading →

Melodies and Memories

Susan LeDoux Posted on by

Hearing the first two lines of “California Dreamin’” by the Mamas and Papas takes me back to the Poor House, a popular watering hole when I was a nursing student in Syracuse. The song’s beginning phrases about brown leaves floating … Continue reading →

Where to Find Help for Seniors and Caregivers Part 2

Susan LeDoux Posted on by

This blog continues the discussion about elder services provided by Catholic Family Center. Again, I am indebted to Virginia Clark, Associate Director, Aging and Adult Services, and for the photos provided by CFC’s Katherine Grant for their help. STAR PROGRAM … Continue reading →

Where to Find Help for the Elderly and Caregivers Part 1

Susan LeDoux Posted on by

In my work as a community health nurse for Monroe County, I quickly learned caregivers and their care receivers are inseparable. Helping one helps the other. I also learned Monroe County is rich in resources for the elderly. So much … Continue reading →

You shall not…

Susan LeDoux Posted on by

  At work, they called me “Queen of the SOAP notes.” This was before computers took over hospital units and nurses and doctors actually used pen and paper to communicate. I thought SOAP notes were pretty neat. S… What symptom … Continue reading →