When I would visit my grandparents at their retirement community, I would watch the parade of little white buses shuttling residents from one day-trip to the next.

My parents joined her for one of the casino outings.

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According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, safety is the second tier of the pyramid just above the need for food and water. It is defined as “protection from elements, security, order, law, stability, freedom from fear.” When we think of creating a safe environment for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, the focus tends to be on elements of the physical environment that may be dangerous, but we often overlook the psychological aspects of feeling safe.

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In a previous post, we discussed the clinical definition and dangers of hoarding disorder (HD). If you are unsure if your loved one has HD, the International OCD Foundation says the key feature of HD is disorganization to the point where the living spaces can no longer be used for their intended function.

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Nurses have one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, jobs. They are there during the most critical times, guiding people from birth all the way through the end of life. For all their compassion and sacrifice, they deserve accolades, praise and gratitude, which is why we celebrate nurses in May.

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For some, there is nothing more refreshing than digging their fingers into warm earth or biting into a sun-ripened tomato fresh off the vine. There is a basic human feeling when planting seeds or bulbs — a sense of achievement and nirvana. However, gardening not only feels good, but it is also good for you. In addition to growing nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, here are some of the other benefits of gardening.

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While my grandpa and grandma lived in their independent living community for seniors, my mom and I would visit a couple of times each week to help with the light cleaning, such as dusting and vacuuming. The clutter we mostly left untouched until after my grandpa died. What we found was amazing: newspapers going back months, some aged candies and so on. I know, the situation could have been more challenging – they could have been hoarding.

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Animals can make great companions for older adults who live alone or want the company of a furry friend. But, before you adopt a pet, make sure that your loved one is onboard with the idea. 

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