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Dementia is one of the most complex and challenging conditions to treat. As researchers continue searching for better therapies, some are exploring nontraditional approaches—including cannabinoids derived from cannabis (marijuana) plants. But what does the science actually say? And what should families consider before trying cannabis-based products? Understanding Cannabinoids: THC and CBD Cannabis plants contain more than 100 different chemical compounds known as cannabinoids

As we age, keeping our minds sharp becomes just as important as staying physically healthy. The groundbreaking U.S. POINTER Study —the U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk —is offering new hope that everyday lifestyle changes can make a real difference in protecting our thinking and memory. What Is U.S. POINTER? U.S. POINTER is a large, multi-site clinical trial designed to test whether a combination of lifestyle changes can help ma

For many caregivers, it can feel discouraging when traditional forms of communication begin to change for someone living with dementia. Yet, time and time again, one thing continues to break through those barriers: music. A familiar rhythm, gentle harmony, or beloved song can reach parts of the mind and heart that remain intact, sparking a smile, easing anxiety, or opening a door to memories once thought lost. Music is not just entertainment — it is connection, comfort, and c

A practical guide for families who want their loved one to age safely at home There’s no place like home — especially as we grow older. For many older adults, remaining at home provides comfort, dignity, independence, and a sense of control. But when daily tasks become overwhelming, extra support may be needed. In-home care makes it possible to receive help without relocating . Whether your loved one needs assistance with household tasks, personal care, or skilled medical ser

Individuals living with dementia, including those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia, often experience behavioral changes that can be distressing for both the person and their caregivers. Agitation, restlessness, repetitive movements, anxiety, and even aggression may surface as communication abilities decline and the brain struggles to interpret its surroundings. These behaviors are rarely “random.” They are often expressions of unmet needs—physical

As spring shifts into summer, daylight stretches well into the evening across much of the Western Hemisphere. For many people, the extra light brings renewed energy, outdoor activity, and social connection. For individuals living with dementia, however, longer and brighter days can be both uplifting and challenging. Why Light Matters So Much Our internal “body clock” (circadian rhythm) is heavily influenced by light. Exposure to daylight helps regulate sleep, mood, and activi

Caring for an older adult can be rewarding—but it also comes with challenges. Planning ahead can make a big difference in maintaining both your loved one’s quality of life and your own well-being. This guide will help you understand what caregiving involves, common issues caregivers face, and steps you can take to prepare. Who Are Caregivers? Caregivers come in many forms. They are anyone who provides unpaid assistance to another adult who is ill, disabled, or needs support.

You have a stressful deadline at work, and your father has woken you every night this week. The home nurse doesn’t arrive on time, and your supervisor asks why you were late again. Between taking your mother to doctor’s visits and responding to crises, you feel stretched thin—and guilty. Your parent needs full-time care, but quitting your job or taking extended leave isn’t an option. This scenario is all too familiar for many adult children who are also caregivers for older p

Today — Friday, February 20, 2026  — we pause and reflect on a group of everyday heroes whose work often goes unseen: caregivers . This day, known as National Caregivers Day , is observed annually on the third Friday in February  in the United States to honor the compassion, resilience, and vital contributions of caregivers everywhere. What Is National Caregivers Day? National Caregivers Day is a special occasion dedicated to recognizing all kinds of caregivers  — from profes

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is widely recognized as a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. What is becoming increasingly clear, however, is that AMD may signal more than just changes in eyesight. Growing research suggests a meaningful link between AMD and a higher risk of cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Understanding this connection sheds light on how closely vision health and brain health are intertwined—and w

Apathy is common in people living with dementia and is often misunderstood. It can look like a lack of motivation, interest, or emotional response—but apathy is not a choice , and it is not laziness, stubbornness, or uncaring behavior. This guide is designed to help caregivers and professionals better understand apathy and learn practical, compassionate strategies  to support engagement, purpose, and participation—without force or frustration. You will learn how to: Support a

Changes in appetite are very common in people living with dementia. Some individuals lose interest in food and stop eating, while others may eat too much or too often. These changes can be confusing, emotional, and stressful for caregivers—but they are a known part of the disease process and not a reflection of poor caregiving . Understanding why  appetite changes occur can help caregivers respond with empathy, creativity, and effective support. Appetite Changes in Dementia:

By Melissa J. Long,  CTRS, CDP, CADDCT, CDSGF, DCCS, DCC-CI Dementia is a journey that affects not only memory, but also mood, behavior, and daily living. While medication can help manage some symptoms, one of the most impactful approaches to improving quality of life is recreational therapy . This non-pharmacological method uses adapted leisure and creative activities to support the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional well-being of individuals living with dementia. B

Virtual reality (VR) is often associated with gaming and younger generations, but emerging research suggests it may be just as powerful—and deeply meaningful—for older adults. A qualitative study by Muslu et al. (2024) explores how older individuals experience virtual reality and reveals something striking: for many participants, VR felt like a form of time travel . Rather than being perceived as a complex or unfamiliar technology, VR offered older adults an emotional, reflec

Rocking chairs have long been associated with comfort, familiarity, and relaxation. However, growing research shows that they offer far more than a cozy place to sit—particularly for people living with dementia. Studies, including landmark research from the University of Rochester School of Nursing , demonstrate that rocking chair therapy can significantly improve emotional well-being, reduce pain, and enhance balance in nursing home residents with dementia. These findings su

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Dementia: What Caregivers Need to Know Winter can be a difficult season for individuals living with dementia—and for the caregivers who support them. As daylight decreases and routines shift, many families notice worsening mood changes, increased confusion, and heightened agitation. In many cases, these changes are not just “part of dementia,” but are linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) . Understanding how SAD impacts dementia can

By Joseph Di Giulio – Long-Term Care & Financial Planning Specialist, THG Financial Strategies Long-term care is one of the most overlooked areas of financial planning — yet one of the most financially devastating if ignored. With people living longer and healthcare costs rising, families in Virginia are asking the same question: “How can I protect my savings, my independence, and my family from the burden of long-term care?” 1. Long-Term Care Is Not Covered by Traditional He

For years, researchers have known that age-related hearing loss is linked to an increased risk of developing dementia. But an important question has remained: Can using hearing aids actually reduce that risk—and does timing matter? A newly published research letter in JAMA Neurology  (2025) sheds light on this question, drawing on decades of data from one of the most respected long-term health studies in the world: the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). The findings emphasize a cl

Did you know that enjoying music or taking daily steps could help protect your brain as you age? Two recent studies reveal simple lifestyle habits that may reduce dementia risk and support cognitive health. Music and Dementia Risk Researchers studied over 10,000 Australians aged 70+  and found exciting connections between music and brain health: Listening to music regularly:  39% lower risk of dementia Playing an instrument:  35% lower risk While it’s too early to say music p

As winter settles in and daylight grows shorter, caregivers often find themselves searching for meaningful ways to engage loved ones living with dementia. The cold months can be isolating, especially when weather makes outings difficult. Fortunately, many art museums and dementia-support organizations offer virtual programs , interactive online sessions , and remote creative experiences  designed to stimulate the mind and bring comfort during the long winter season. Art exper