1. Senior and Family The last day my mother was ninety-one she sat in the rocking chair,cool as a cucumber, with her leg swung over the arm of the chair... She matured overnight. At ninety-two she sat proper for her age… It occurs overnight - in a moment - the once vibrant personality and body mature in ways we accept, an opportunity to give back what they gave us - unconditional love and care.

2. It took several years of confusing behavior before it occurred to my family that what we were experiencing was not true wit. It was a witty person's way of struggling with the onset of dementia. Remember saying, "Mom, this is not funny.” Later thinking how sad to place blame. My mother became a shell for the competent mom we no longer understood. We have come to understand how to enrich life for our senior and the family - there is no placing of blame. Accept the unacceptable behavior. It is reality. Who cares if the paper towels are cut up in little pieces and hidden in the drawer. There is a time and place to go on a scavenger hunt - when they are not watching and before the hidden food smells or makes them ill. Things to do for Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia: Seek help from professionals. Geriatric specialists will evaluate and recommend treatment options. If the senior is driving, and the family wants to gently and confidently ensure safety, have a third party driving evaluation by an occupational therapist. The report can be forwarded to the physician and a copy made for the senior and family. Problem solve without taking away dignity. When a change occurs, it is unlikely the previous way will return. Improve upon the change by making it safe. Take all the knobs off the stove and store them in an accessible place for the family. It is a safe inconvenience. Take respite. A geriatric social worker, often affiliated with a geriatric clinic, is an excellent resource for community services. 5. Educate yourself and family, seek support.

3. Do you know someone somewhere that could benefit from a personal health record (PHR)? The PHR links her family to her care wherever she goes. Age 94