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As shutdown deadline nears, Senate Democrats say they won't vote for GOP-led bill; After USDA funding freeze, Colorado farmers brace for tariffs; NM protests against Musk's Tesla dealerships expand to Sandoval County; Local economic partnership helps MT town embrace new work sectors.

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Senate Democrats refuse to support GOP budget bill. The EU and Canada respond to steel and aluminum tariffs and some groups work to counter Christian Nationalism, which they call a threat to democracy.

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Many fear the Trump administration's effort to raise money fast could include sale of public lands, thousands of farmers wait for payouts frozen by the USDA, and a shortage has rural America's doctors coming out of retirement.

Summer safety tips for CT people with dementia, Alzheimer’s

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Monday, May 27, 2024   

This Memorial Day, Connecticut health experts are guiding caregivers on how to keep people with Alzheimer's safe.

People with the various forms of dementia cannot always voice their needs, so caregivers have to be mindful.

Kristen Cusato, director of communications for the Connecticut chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, noted planning ahead reduces injury risk and helps a person with dementia feel more relaxed. She said Memorial Day celebrations can sometimes overwhelm someone with Alzheimer's or dementia.

"Maybe if you normally have a giant picnic with a ton of people, maybe you just have a smaller picnic with yourself, and a couple of family members and the person with dementia," Cusato suggested. "Go sit on the beach with a nice umbrella and nice cool towels for the neck."

She added people with dementia might not recognize if they are getting sunburned, so keeping them covered is essential. One thing to avoid is the overstimulation watching fireworks in person could create. Cusato recommended watching at home could be a better and less frightening option. She added shutting the shades in a cool room, and turning on music or a TV show can make it an enjoyable Memorial Day for all.

Cusato pointed out there are some things people do not always consider when caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia. One in particular is how heat can agitate someone with the illnesses. Rather than argue with them, she advised good communication skills -- and what she described as "going into their reality" -- makes a difference.

"Someone said, 'Oh boy, I'm not feeling well, I've got to go home, I've got to go home.' 'OK, tell us what home means to you. What is it like at the home? Oh, you grew up on So-and-So Avenue. Tell us about that,'" Cusato outlined. "Don't say the words, 'Remember this, remember that.'"

Pulling out a photo album can sometimes reorient the person who is feeling threatened. She added it is important to stay with your loved one at gatherings and offer a quiet place away from crowds. About 70% of Alzheimer's patients wander. Cusato also suggested registering them with "Bring Me Back Home," a program to help law enforcement locate missing or wandering people.


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