Alzheimer's Information: Reiki as a Treatment for Alzheimer's Patients and Caregivers

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

Alzheimer's Information: The many complicated aspects of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia make caring for patients and their caregivers a challenge. Unfortunately, Alzheimer's currently has no known cure. This makes it a disease that ruins lives both physically and emotionally, as caregivers watch their loved ones slowly succumb to Alzheimer's devastating effects. However, there is hope in alleviating some of the issues through a Japanese practice known as Reiki. The practice has shown effective in clinical studies as a treatment for both patients and their caregivers alike.

Reiki is both a spiritual and alternative medicine practice originally developed by a Japanese Buddhist monk in the 1920s. It is based on the belief that the power of physical touch, by way of the palms of the hands and tips of the fingers, can be used to channel the body's natural energy in a way that promotes general healing and overall good health.

There are two forms of Reiki in use today: traditional Japanese Reiki and Westernized Reiki. The traditional form relies on the practitioner's intuition and experience to determine where best to apply touch. The Westernized treatment uses a more systematic roach, relying on specific touch points for specific purposes. It stands to reason that Westernized Reiki is the form most commonly practiced in the United States.

Alzheimer's Treatment 

One of the most promising areas of treatment for Alzheimer's patients is that of improving mild cognitive impairment. According to Psychcentral, numerous peer-reviewed clinical studies have shown that the proper application of Reiki can indeed improve cognitive impairment among dementia patients.

In one study referenced by Psychcentral, two groups of patients were studied side-by-side: one that received regular Reiki treatments and another that did not. At the conclusion of the study, the group receiving the treatments showed measurable improvement in cognitive functioning, memory and general behavior.

The most exciting thing about Reiki is that caregivers can learn to administer it themselves. For just the cost of the lessons, which might be covered with private health insurance, caregivers can learn a skill that will provide a real benefit to their loved ones. It is a very cost-effective way to reduce the negative cognitive effects of dementia. Obviously, Reiki will not cure the disease or prevent its progression, but it does make dealing with it easier.

Treatment for Caregivers 

Reiki is also an exciting treatment for caregivers who struggle right along with their suffering loved ones. Why do caregivers need care? Studies have shown that caregivers suffer from very high stress levels as a result of caring for an Alzheimer's patient while at the same time trying to maintain the daily routine. That stress can result in a variety of health problems, including elevated blood pressure, anxiety or nervousness, heart problems, and so on.

Another problem caregivers have is one of neglecting their own health. Their busy schedules have often been burning the candle at both ends to the point of not taking care of themselves. Any health problems resulting from the increased stress are not dealt with, making matters much worse.

Reiki is able to relieve much of the stress caregivers’ experience, thereby making it easier for them to care for loved ones and themselves simultaneously. Other family members can learn to administer Reiki so the caregiver does not have to pay for individual sessions.

How It Works 

Reiki is practiced as a series of light touches and taps based on the visual appearance of the head, neck, and other portions of the body. The practitioner will blow on the skin, perhaps tap it lightly a number of times, or apply a certain amount of pressure with the palms of his hands. The practice is believed to help channel the natural energy in the human body in a specific direction, as determined by the practitioner.

Reiki is also practices at a distance making this form of alternative healing ideal for anyone living with Alzheimer’s or dementias. The person receiving Reiki feels calmer and more relaxed but does not have to leave the comfort of their environment to receive the benefits. Remembering4You.com recommends TheHealerWithin.com/complementary-therapies for more information.

Other than that, no one really knows why Reiki works as an Alzheimer's patient and caregiver treatment. However, we do not really need to know for patients and their families to benefit. As long as clinical studies show Reiki can be beneficial to patient outcomes, it is a treatment that should be included in the full compendium offered by doctors.

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com. 

 

Alzheimer's Information: Cannabis More Widely Accepted for Alzheimer's Patients

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

This November, voters in the state of Florida will be deciding on whether or not to allow the medical use of marijuana as a treatment for certain debilitating conditions. Already there are 13 states in the union where medical marijuana use is legal. Some of those states, including New Mexico, are seriously considering adding Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia to the list of illnesses eligible for medical marijuana.

Also known as cannabis, marijuana has been used for medical purposes for decades. However, strict laws surrounding recreational cannabis use have somewhat stunted public acceptance of cannabis for medical purposes. Yet the tide is turning. In New Mexico, medical marijuana supporters successfully convinced the medical advisory board of New Mexico's Medical Cannabis Program to include Alzheimer's disease on the list of treatable conditions. However, the state health secretary ultimately makes the final decision.

If the secretary moves in favor of medical cannabis for Alzheimer's disease, New Mexico will join a small number of other states already allowing the practice. It should be noted that the original petition to the medical advisory board only named Alzheimer's disease specifically. The board decided to expand their authorization to include multiple forms of degenerative dementia.

How It Helps

Proponents cite three ways in which cannabis can help Alzheimer's patients, beginning with reducing brain swelling. Ohio State University professor Gary Wenk has been studying various pharmaceutical compounds to see if any of them reduced brain inflammation associated with dementia. After years of frustrating results, he finally turned to cannabis. He told the Drug Policy Alliance he believes cannabis is the most powerful anti-inflammatory available for the human brain.

The second benefit of cannabis appears to be one of pain relief. Obviously, it is already in use for a number of other conditions where traditional medicines are ineffective for pain. As Alzheimer's progresses, the pain it causes increases dramatically. If pain can be relieved through medical marijuana, it should be an option.

Third, cannabis appears to help Alzheimer's patients manage anxiety, which, in turn, helps to increase their appetites. Numerous studies have shown that patients suffering from Alzheimer's related anorexia were able to put on significant weight thanks to the calming effects of cannabis. Those using the drug experienced a return to normal appetite levels.

Smoked or Swallowed

The idea of medical marijuana as a treatment for Alzheimer's and other diseases is sure to be hotly debated in legislative halls this spring and summer. Those in favor of cannabis as a medical treatment are quick to point out the millions of people around the country suffering from conditions that would benefit from cannabis use. They make a very strong case in support of it.

On the other hand, critics of medical marijuana fear that approving it is a gateway to recreational cannabis use. They also have a point. Unfortunately, the medical benefits of cannabis are largely achieved by smoking marijuana. By making the leaf form of the drug available as a medicine, you open the door to approving it for recreational use later on.

One possible solution offered by medical marijuana opponents in Florida is to insist the drug only be available as a prescription pill or liquid. This would remove some of the social aspects of using marijuana recreationally. Of course, doing so would not prevent addicts from seeking cannabis, but it might prevent casual users from using the drug recreationally by way of a medical prescription.

It is a complicated question that certainly deserves further discussion and analysis. If cannabis is useful as a treatment for Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, it seems to be the least we can do for patients suffering from a disease that will ultimately claim their lives.

Remembering4You.com does not recommend cannabis for Alzheimer’s as there is not sufficient evidence it would minimize pain and confusion. The other problem we see is the danger of fire and accidents unless there is 24/7 one-on-one supervision which is extremely difficult to provide for any living at home or in community living. Cannibis can be added to cooking and other form as suggested above. Medical advice is always recommended before adding any supplements to someone who is living with Alzheimer’s. 

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com. 

 

Alzheimer's Care: Safety in the House - The

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

Alzheimer's Care - The care of a loved one with Alzheimer's is a noble yet difficult calling. We are here for support and education in this process. Things to not overlook are minor issues in your home that can turn into dangerous obstacles and for your loved one. We will embark on a short series to help point out these issues and help you to keep your loved one safe.

 

The kitchen is likely the most dangerous room in the home for anybody, but especially for those with cognitive issues. It is natural, for example, for the person living with dementia to want to continue to help with dishes, making coffee, etc.
Preventing risks in the kitchen starts with a careful evaluation of your loved one’s cognitive abilities. If it is not safe for your loved one to cook without someone supervising, then prepare meals ahead when someone can oversee the process. Keeping someone with cognitive challenges involved in those things he/she has loved doing – like cooking- is a great way to keep someone inspired and feel as though he/she is contributing. Taking unnecessary risks is never advised. Cook ahead of time and store meals in microwaveable containers.
If your loved one’s condition worsens, you may have to take greater control by removing metal cans that might accidentally get microwaved, and disabling appliances—not just in the kitchen but throughout the home—when you are not there. Keep surfaces clear of items and appliances such as crockpots and toasters (and hair dryers in the bath).
If your loved one is still relatively self-sufficient in the kitchen, use labels to describe individual items, or the contents of drawers and cupboards. To help ease embarrassment during a meal, use brightly colored plates, cups, flatware and napkins, which are easier to identify. If your loved one is confused about the proper utensils he/she may refuse to eat,and that may be mistaken as a symptom of something else. So make it as easy as possible and be there to lend a helping hand.
When the condition progresses and you can see problems in the kitchen, the best possible option is to consider installing a Dutch door equipped with a dead bolt lock to the kitchen to prevent accidents.


Remembering4you.com
P. O. Box 193
Mapleton, ME 04757
Phone: (207) 764-1214

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com.

Alzheimer's Information: Support is a Phone Call Away

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

Wine and Whine – Weekly Support Call

Alzheimer's information abounds on the internet. But sometimes you have a very specific issue you would like to discuss. Everyone dealing with Alzheimer's will go thru some hard times at some point. Many caregivers are alone without anyone around them that are going or have gone through this experience. You are not alone and what you are experiencing is not unique - others would love to share their experiences and lend their support to you. Life isn’t easy. Just something to think about…Did you know:

• the people that are the strongest are usually the most sensitive?
• the people who exhibit the most kindness are the first to get mistreated?
• the ones who take care of others all the time are usually the ones who need it the most?
• the 3 hardest things to say are ‘I love you’, ‘I’m sorry’, and ‘Help me’.

Sometimes, just because a person looks happy, you have to look past their smile and see how much pain they may be in.

If you do not like wine, tea/coffee is acceptable too. Each weekly call is designed to safely and lovingly express your most pressing concern under the direction of a trained group leader in dementia care. Dr. Lord has a degree in counseling from the University of Maine in Orono, advanced group work and a Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. Although she often takes a no nonsense approach to her work and because she has been there as a caregiver too, you will find comfort and hope in her sound advice. Dr. Lord will be responsible for assuring each person on the call has a chance to speak or comment. You will learn to let go of worries, stress and embrace the good side of caregiving by sharing with others in this very unique experience of caregiving for someone living with Alzheimer’s.

If this sounds like something you would benefit from, sign up here and join us!

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com. 

Alzheimer's Care: Room safety - the Kitchen

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

Alzheimer's Care - The care of a loved one with Alzheimer's is a noble yet difficult calling. We are here for support and education in this process. Things to not overlook are minor issues in your home that can turn into dangerous obstacles and for your loved one. We will embark on a short series to help point out these issues and help you to keep your loved one safe.

The Kitchen
The kitchen is likely the most dangerous room in the home for anybody, but especially for those with cognitive issues. It is natural, for example, for the person living with dementia to want to continue to help with dishes, making coffee, etc.
Preventing risks in the kitchen starts with a careful evaluation of your loved one's cognitive abilities. If it is not safe for your loved one to cook without someone supervising, then prepare meals ahead when someone can oversee the process. Keeping someone with cognitive challenges involved in those things he/she has loved doing -- like cooking- is a great way to keep someone inspired and feel as though he/she is contributing. Taking unnecessary risks is never advised. Cook ahead of time and store meals in microwaveable containers.

If your loved one's condition worsens, you may have to take greater control by removing metal cans that might accidentally get microwaved, and disabling appliances—not just in the kitchen but throughout the home—when you are not there. Keep surfaces clear of items and appliances such as crockpots and toasters (and hair dryers in the bath).
If your loved one is still relatively self-sufficient in the kitchen, use labels to describe individual items, or the contents of drawers and cupboards. To help ease embarrassment during a meal, use brightly colored plates, cups, flatware and napkins, which are easier to identify. If your loved one is confused about the proper utensils he/she may refuse to eat,and that may be mistaken as a symptom of something else. So make it as easy as possible and be there to lend a helping hand.

When the condition progresses and you can see problems in the kitchen, the best possible option is to consider installing a Dutch door equipped with a dead bolt lock to the kitchen to prevent accidents.

Remembering4you.com
P. O. Box 193
Mapleton, ME 04757
Phone: (207) 764-1214

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com. 

Alzheimer's Information: 5 Reasons a Healthy Lifestyle May Protect Against Alzheimer's

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

In the ongoing fight to find a cause and cure for Alzheimer's disease, one of the things the medical community agrees on is that a generally healthy lifestyle is a very good way to protect against the threat of the disease later in life. Yet why that is so is anyone's guess. Until a cause of Alzheimer's is known definitively, all we can say for sure is that good general health enables the body to fight disease better.

The knowledge of better health and its link to preventing dementia has led researchers to uncover five interesting “clues” about how and why the disease develops. These five things could explain the better health angle for protecting against Alzheimer's. According to eastern Pennsylvania's WFMZ TV, the clues are:

1. Higher Blood Sugar Levels

WFMZ cited a study from the University of Washington that looked at more than 2,000 individuals over a period of five years. The research revealed that those with consistently elevated blood sugar levels had an 18% higher risk of developing some form of dementia. What they couldn't figure out is why that is the case.

If blood sugar levels do play a role in Alzheimer's, it would explain why a healthy diet would help. Consuming more fruits and vegetables and less refined sugars seems to be a good suggestion.

2. High Blood Pressure 

We already know that high blood pressure (systolic) is a problem in many ways. However, could it also be a signal of future Alzheimer's disease?  It is quite possible, according to another study cited by WFMZ. This study apparently showed higher levels of the tau protein in the blood of individuals with high blood pressure.

Tau is one of the substances we already know is involved in causing the brain cell damage of Alzheimer's. Moreover, because the research shows higher levels of tau for every ten-point increase in systolic blood pressure, keeping your blood pressure under control is a good thing to do.

3. Heart Disease 

Heart disease, like high blood pressure, can easily lead to so many other devastating health conditions. If your heart is not functioning properly, it affects every other part of your body as well. Apparently, heart disease is a strong indication of dementia in the future.

WFMZ cites numerous studies that show that as many as 80% of all Alzheimer’s patients also have some level of heart disease. It would appear that keeping your heart healthy, by remaining active and eating properly, could help prevent dementia in some people.

4. Depression

It should be no surprise that clinical depression has been linked to Alzheimer's disease by numerous studies. According to Dr. Wayne Katon of the University of Washington, a combination of clinical depression and diabetes increases your risk of developing Alzheimer's by more than two times.

Unfortunately, clinical depression is a mental illness that has many unanswered questions of its own. Nonetheless, doing what you can to maintain good mental health will help in lots of ways above and beyond Alzheimer's disease.

 5. Pace and Stride

This last clue may be more of a warning sign than something you could work on to help prevent dementia. It comes by way of your pace and stride. According to WFMZ, researchers at the Mayo Clinic have discovered that those who walk more slowly and with a shortened stride are somewhat more likely to be suffering from some sort of dementia or other loss of mental function. This makes sense when think about how complicated the process of walking is for the brain.

There is still a lot more about Alzheimer's disease we do not know. The good news is that research is moving along at a more accelerated rate than ever before. It is just a matter of time before a definitive cause is revealed, thus facilitating preventative measures and a cure. Until then, your best defense against the disease is to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle throughout your entire life.

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com. 

Alzheimer's Information: FTD - Alzheimer's Close Cousin

By Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM

Should you ever be unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and you are looking for Alzheimer's information, if came across information on acupuncture for treatment, would be willing to try it as a possible treatment? It might be worth it, even if you are somewhat afraid of needles. Recent research published by the Healthcare Medicine Institute (HMI) suggest acupuncture could help improve memory loss issues associated with Alzheimer's by serving to reestablish brain connections within the hippocampus.

The HMI says magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) shows that acupuncture can encourage brain activity in Alzheimer's patients when applied properly. The research backing up those claims was conducted using the latest fMRI technology along with advanced scanners. The resulting images showed Alzheimer's patients receiving acupuncture experienced greater brain connectivity in the affected portions of the brain.

The Hippocampus

The research into acupuncture for Alzheimer's focused on the hippocampus region of the brain. This is where Alzheimer's usually begins before progressing outward. And because the hippocampus is largely responsible for things like memory, emotions, and the autonomic nervous system, increasing activity in the hippocampus could reduce most of the early and mid-term symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

In order to affect this greater brain activity, researchers took advantage of two specific acupoints as described in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Focusing on these acupoints apparently increases cerebral blood flow. Acupuncturists then included two additional acupoints to increase blood flow, balance the yin and yang, and regulate qi.

Researchers claim that what they have discovered is consistent with previous studies that also used MRI scans to verify acupuncture and its benefits in treating Alzheimer's disease. Researchers now believe those benefits are threefold:

• Brain Cell Damage – If MRI images do indeed show what researchers claim they do, acupuncture could be helpful in slowing down or stopping the progression of brain cell damage in the affected portions of the Alzheimer's brain. Although not an outright cure for the disease, it might be something that could effectively slow it down. 

• Improved Cognition – Acupuncture allegedly takes advantage of the still healthy brain cells within the hippocampus, encouraging them to make new connections that bypass already damaged cells. This could improve cognition and memory function in some patients.

• Neuron Preservation – Third, acupuncture is believed to help with neuron preservation by stimulating undamaged cells to better defend themselves against the progression of the disease. If such observations turn out to be true, acupuncture would be acting almost as an immune system booster of sorts.

It should be understood that the research into acupuncture as a treatment for Alzheimer's is still in its early stages. The results achieved thus far have only been observed in a limited number of human patients and some laboratory mice under controlled conditions. In other words, conclusions reached by the researchers are by no means conclusive. Their research shows promise, but a lot more work is needed to make any definitive claims.

Another Option 

We do hope further research into acupuncture yields great results. The devastation caused by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia is such that patients need every option possible. If acupuncture turns out to be as effective as researchers hope, it might be the option that radically transforms the lives of some patients – even those who really do not enjoy the thought of being treated with multiple needles.

At Remembering For You - Ethelle G. Lord, M.Ed.,DM has created a unique Caregiver Partnership Agreement Program that promotes inter-professionalism in organizations and changes the way long-term care is delivered. She is also a pioneer in Alzheimer's coaching having been the first to create a certification program (15-week study course) and delivered on Webinar technology so that nobody needs to leave the comfort of their office/home to take this program. Dr. Lord is also the author of HOW IN THE WORLD... AND NOW WHAT DO I DO? A Primer for Alzheimer's: 12 Major Points for Coping Better available at http://AlzheimersPrimer.com.