Joyce Simard

Caring.com Expert

About

Joyce Simard is a social worker and geriatric consultant based in Land O' Lakes, Florida, who specializes in dementia care. She serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney.

During her 30 years in the healthcare industry, she has developed quality-of-life programs for people in all stages of dementia, including a memory-enhancement program for people with mild memory loss, and The Club for nursing home residents who are in the moderate stage of a dementing illness.

Simard’s children's book The Magic Tape Recorder helps children understand and relate to people with Alzheimer's disease.

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Recently Published on Caring.com

Friday November 13, 2009
1. Is Alzheimer's hereditary?
  Answer - There is no test for Alzheimer's disease unless the cause of their AD is caused by a "bad" gene and you know what the bad gene is. My best advice is to make sure that you keep your blood pressure under control, exercise to maintain a healthy weight, wear a helmet if you go bike riding and keep you mind active...
Sunday November 08, 2009
1. How do we control Dad's grunting and strange bathroom habits?
  Answer - You and your mother are going to need a lot of patience with these problems. He has a dementing illness that is incurable and is effecting his brain. His short term memory is severely effected. He is unable to remember what you are telling him about his bathroom habits...
Saturday November 07, 2009
1. How do I get my Alzheimer's mom to eat?
  Answer - You did not say what stage of her disease she is in. If she is in the early or moderate stage, have her evaluated for depression. Often people don't eat when they are depressed so you want to rule that out. Also their are medications to stimulate the appetite. Make sure you know what she wants to eat...
Wednesday October 21, 2009
1. How do I best handle communication issues with my husband who has Alzheimer's?
  Answer - Speech problems are not that unusual especially if he had had a "mini stroke"; that is also not unusual for people with AD. Do make an appointment with a speech pathologist to see if they have any suggestions.
2. Can we get Mom to accept adult day care?
  Answer - It sounds as if you are all doing your best to manage a difficult situation. Your mother is not making rational decisions because of her disease not because of anything you are doing. Adjusting to adult day care is difficult. Have you met with the staff at the day center and explained the problem...
Wednesday October 14, 2009
1. Can Alzheimer's cause a person to forget how to walk?
  Answer - Yes, it is very possible that your mother has forgotten how to walk. Make an appointment with her physician so that medications or other treatable conditions that could cause this are eliminated. You might request a physical therapist evaluation. They can evaluate the risk of falling and might suggest assistive devices such as a walker...
Monday October 12, 2009
1. My husband probably has late mid-stage Alzheimer's and I...
  Answer - People with Alzheimer's disease often develop eating problems and yours it not that uncommon. You may need to develop a menu of finger food that he can take with him as he wanders about. Almost everything can be placed in between slices of bread so a person can walk and eat. I think you asking him to accompany you to the table is a great approach to use...
Friday September 18, 2009
1. Which Alzheimer's symptoms get worse over time?
  Answer - Your mother-in-law is probably approaching the advanced stage of Alzheimer's disease. Her symptoms will become more debilitating as the disease progresses. Her difficulty swallowing may be the first acute symptom you will face. Make sure everyone who cares for her learns what to do if she chokes...
Friday September 11, 2009
1. Should we tell Dad he's sick?
  Answer - The answer to your question is how much do you think he understands. For Alzheimer's patients with severe cognitive impairment in a hospice program we would just reassure him that he is loved and cared for. We would also be sure that he is not in pain...
Wednesday September 02, 2009
1. Should I correct a dementia patient?
  Answer - Of course one of the first signs of dementia is "getting things wrong". My rule of thumb is to gently and respectfully correct the person unless this upsets them. When they become upset with being corrected it may mean that they have are frightened that they are losing their memory. Do not upset them more by telling them they are wrong...
Wednesday July 08, 2009
1. How do we deal with Dad's dementia delusions?
  Answer - I agree with Dr. Robins. Although I don't like to use medications unles it can't be helped, in this case I don't think he will be convinced that his feelings are incorrect. These usually do pass with time so hopefully he will not have to be on medication for long.
Thursday June 18, 2009
1. What is my grandmother experiencing?
  Answer - Your question is one we would all like to know, what are they thinking? Carers do get non-verbal messages that might let us know if they are pleasant thoughts. If they are, count your blessings. However if she seems distressed by her thoughts, try to distract her with something she likes, ice cream a cookie, music...
Monday June 15, 2009
1. Is compulsive scratching common?
  Answer - The head is an unlikely place for itching, if that is the cause of her scratching her head. Could it be a scalp condition? Perhaps seeing a dermatologist could provide an answer. I think the hat idea is a good one. Have a variety of hats and let her choose the hat for the day. Young people like the knitted hats and they come in a variety of colors...
Thursday May 14, 2009
1. How can we help mom with Alzheimer's be safe in her home?
  Answer - It is of course a delicate balance to allow someone with Alzheimer's disease stay at home alone and be safe and at the same time honor her need to be independent and stay in her own apartment. Have you looked at assisted living? That setting is usually a much "homier" and she can bring her own furniture...
2. How do I deal with overbearing Alzheimer's care?
  Answer - This behavior is not uncommon. The well spouse trying to have some "control" over a situation where he has no control because of the disease is a difficult situation. No magic answer but here are some suggestions.
Friday May 08, 2009
1. What can I do if my mother's Alzheimer's care facility won't let me speak to her by phone?
  Answer - I'm sure that this new "rule" regarding phone conversations is upsetting to you. have you spoken to the unit director and asked her for other alternatives? If the phone is still in the room is it only your call that upsets her? I would think they would remove the phone although it is a "resident right" violation if they remove it against her will...
2. How can I best communicate with someone who is in the late stages of Alzheimer's?
  Answer - Communication in the late stage of Alzheimer's is a challenge. I think you are doing the right thing but do stop if she becomes frustrated with trying to get you to understand. Showing items as a clue is perfect and I would only keep asking questions if you think she is uncomfortable or in pain...
Monday May 04, 2009
1. Could a hypoxic episode cause dementia?
  Answer - This is a very difficult response to your question. Yes, a hypoxic episode can cause brain damage which is like a stroke and as you know people who have had a stroke sometimes recover. If he does not become upset try simple word games, flash cards and perhaps pictures of your family, trips you have taken and other happy occasions...
Monday April 27, 2009
1. How can we help my father, who has Alzheimer's remember to pull his depends down when using the bathroom?
  Answer - If your father goes to the bathroom on his own does he need Depends? Have you tried pinning them to his pants so they will go down when he pulls his pants down? Other than that, someone will have to make sure they go to the bathroom with him. Put a bell on the door so that you are aware when he enters the bathroom...
Sunday April 19, 2009
1. How can I stop my mother with dementia from handling her feces and to wash her hands?
  Answer - This is a very difficult situation as you cannot expect your mother to change a life long habit when she has dementia. Give her fiber caps on a regular basis to see if that helps without having to use a laxative. I'm assuming that her diet is full of fiber that will naturally help her with elimination problems...
Wednesday April 15, 2009
1. How can we deal with my father, who has Alzheimer's, being obsessed and believing he is a millionaire?
  Answer - You may not believe this but you are fortunate that he thinks he is a millionaire, a very happy place for him to be. Many times the delusions are very unhappy places.. We can' t say why he believes this to be true and at this point it's not important. You and the family are responding in a very appropriate way by listening and agreeing with him...
Friday April 10, 2009
1. How can I get my mother, who has dementia, understand she must control her spending habits?
  Answer - If possible get your mother to have her name taken off all of her accounts and put in your name or another trusted person. Even though she is in the earlier stage of the disease she is not capable of making sound decisions. Speak with her physician and relate the concerns you have about her decision...
2. Can a person with dementia "hide" it?
  Answer - I would suggest that you ask her physician if a family conference could be scheduled. If some of the family can not attend the conference could be a teleconference ling. Then, everyone would hear the same message and they would have the opportunity to ask questions of her physicians...
3. My fiance's grandmother, who has dementia, is telling lies about me. What can I do to protect myself legally?
  Answer - You are right that her comments could be taken seriously and that this could be a problem for you. Please make an appointment with her physician and relay the concerns you have. Also contact the Alzheimer's Association in your area as they will know the appropriate state agency that could help you...
Wednesday March 25, 2009
1. How do I deal with my mother, who has Alzheimer's, when she wants to "go home"?
  Answer - I appreciate that you do not want to use medication , try behavioral interventions first. Alzheimer's housing anxiety is not unusual . The reason why she feels as if she must leave is that at the end of the day for most people in their younger years (where she might be in her mind,) it is a time...
Monday March 23, 2009
1. How can we explain to my mother that she needs help caring for my father?
  Answer - It so very difficut to take away independence from the parent who feels that it is their responsibility to care for her husband. "Til death do us part" is taken seriously by your mothers generation. I wonder if it would be possible to have an "in-law" apartment or section of the house for their own personal space...
2. How can I convince my mother to live with me so I can take care of her?
  Answer - Your mother is indeed young to be diagnosed with dementia. Many studies show that depression may be a strong link to dementia. It is vital to have have treatment for depression and good follow-up.
3. What can we do if the Alzheimer's facility that my mom lives in won't bathe her?
  Answer - I have been working in this field for over 35 years and this astounds me! I know resident rights are important but your mother has been diagnosed with a dementia and symptoms of dementia are that they are unable to process information to make good decisions. An Alzheimer's facility should have been able to take care of this problem...
Tuesday March 17, 2009
1. Is it common for a patient in the late stages of Alzheimer's to still know everyone?
  Answer - It is uncommon for someone in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease to know their friends and families. Be thankful!
Friday March 06, 2009
1. How do I go about changing adult diaper for my mother, who suffers from dementia and incontinence, to prevent her reaching into her diaper?
  Answer - Try to determine your mother's schedule for having a bowel movement so you can either try her on a toilet that will eliminate the problem of playing or smearing the contents of her diaper. If you know her schedule you can watch her and change the diaper as soon as possible after the bowel movement...
Saturday February 28, 2009
1. How do we protect my grandfather from scams?
  Answer - Your question about charity scams is one that unfortunately we hear often. The most efficient way to deal with this problem is to obtain power of attorney of his finances. Each state has different ways to do this so seek legal counsel so that you protect yourself...
Thursday February 19, 2009
1. Is rapid memory loss a sign of Alzheimer's?
  Answer - A rapid short term memory decline is not usually associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Most of the time memory loss for someone with AD has a slower progression. It is important for him to be seen by a physician as soon as possible to determine the cause and perhaps treatment of the rapid memory loss...
2. How can I help my mother deal with believing that her parents are still alive?
  Answer - It is not unusual for people with Alzheimer's disease to want to call their parents believing that they are still alive. If telling them "the truth" does not work I use the "fix the problem" approach. Either give her the phone to 'talk" to them or tell her they are on vacation and she can record a message in a tape recorder to send to them...
3. My mother fell this past August and it was very dramatic for...
  Answer - The medications you mentioned do not usually cause memory loss. Lexapro is for depression. Please inform the physician about your concerns regarding memory loss.
4. Is it common to have hallucinations with Alzheimer's?
  Answer - When people with Alzheimer's disease experience frightening hallucinations, I "fix the problem". Whever it is you take charge and fix it. I have "killed" snakes, taken rabbits out of their beds and "fixed" whatever the problem is if my "real" answer did not help and they could not be redirected...
Thursday February 05, 2009
1. How can I keep my mother with Alzheimer's and my 3 year old from fighting?
  Answer - Perhaps you could set up projects that would be of interest to both of them, like coloring in coloring books. So both grandma and her grandson could focus on something together. Grandma may remember coloring when she was younger or having colored with her children. Another thought is to have them watch a movie, video or television together...
2. Is wanting to "go home" part of Alzheimer's, even if the patient is at home?
  Answer - When she refers to "home," it's as an expression of an emotion. Home is where the heart is -- and her memories and heart are with your father and the home they shared. Unless she becomes too upset, try keeping on hand an album of pictures from the past so that she can reminisce about her life...
3. After speech is lost, how can we communicate effectively with an Alzheimer's patient?
  Answer - Use clues and cues. For instance when it is time to eat, gesture eating and take her hand while beckoning her with the other hand. Showing her soap, a towel, and a bathrobe will help signal that it is time to bathe.
4. How can I support my husband in caring for his dad with dementia?
  Answer - Your father-in-law needs a complete psychiatric assessment immediately. It appears that the medications he is taking are not effective. Use the "fix the problem" approach to dealing with his perceptions. If he thinks the neighbors are out to get him, for example, let him know that you are taking care of the situation for him...
Wednesday February 04, 2009
1. How do you know that a person is the last stages of Alzheimer's?
  Answer - There are distinct signs common to people in the last stages of Alzheimer's or another dementing illness
Monday November 03, 2008
1. What can we do to help my great-grandmother with the people she's seeing who aren't really there?
  Answer - Hallucinations are not unusual for people with Alzheimer's. It's best to go along, if you can.
2. How can I get my father, who has progressing dementia, to accept help?
  Answer - It's a tough situation. Start by scheduling a visit to or calling his physician. Ask for his or her help. Describe what you see and what's reported by neighbors to help the physician make a judgment on how risky it is for your father to continue living alone. The doctor might send him a letter that it's time for a regular checkup...
3. How can I deal with my mother's aggressive behavior?
  Answer - Not recognizing family members and behaving abusively towards them can happen in later stages of Alzheimer's
4. Do you have any suggestions for helping my 13 year old deal with his grandmother's dementia?
  Answer - Teenagers can be uncomfortable around people with Alzheimer's disease for many reasons.
Friday August 08, 2008
1. Can someone with Alzheimer's forget something then remember it?
  Answer - Memories can come and go with Alzheimer's
2. Is it normal for dementia patients to lose their ability to speak?
  Answer - People with dementia may stop speaking because of depression, or they may be in end-stage disease.
Monday July 07, 2008
1. What causes a person with dementia to talk endlessly for hours?
  Answer - Agitation is a common behavior with dementia.
2. Is it normal for someone who has Alzheimer's to make a mess while urinating?
  Answer - How to help improve aim.
3. What can I do to bring some pleasure to my mom who has Alzheimer's?
  Answer - Finding new ways to bring pleasure to someone with Alzheimer's can be a challenge.
4. How do I get my dementia patient to eat?
  Answer - Loss of appetite with dementia is not unusual.
Sunday November 04, 2007
1. Why do teens get especially upset about their grandparents' Alzheimer's disease?
  Answer - The disconnection may be less about your mother than about the kids themselves. Teenagers are going through so many emotional issues at this developmental stage that their grandmother's altered personality may be just one more thing they're having trouble dealing with...
Sunday October 07, 2007
1. What should I do when my parent with Alzheimer's doesn't recognize members of the family?
  Answer - Forgetting loved ones (often just temporarily) or confusing them with someone else is most typical in the middle to late stages of the disease. It's important to remember that this doesn't reflect your father's feelings about his grandchildren (or about anyone else in the family); it's just the nature of memory loss with Alzheimer's disease...
Saturday September 08, 2007
1. What's the best way to respond when my parent with memory problems keeps repeating himself?
  Answer - As tempting as it might be to say, "Dad, you just said that," that's not helpful. If his statement seems to beg for a response, just say, "Oh, OK, Dad," or "Thanks for telling me," in a positive way, and move onto something else. When you remind him he's repeating himself, what you're really doing is lowering his self-esteem... 1 Comment
2. How can I help my dad, who has Alzheimer's, communicate?
  Answer - If your dad has just been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, he may feel stressed when he can't find the words he's looking for. Word-finding difficulties are one of the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. 1 Comment

Joyce Simard

Caring.com Expert

Recently Published on Caring.com

Friday November 13, 2009

Sunday November 08, 2009

Saturday November 07, 2009

Wednesday October 21, 2009

Wednesday October 14, 2009

Monday October 12, 2009

Friday September 18, 2009

Friday September 11, 2009

Wednesday September 02, 2009

Wednesday July 08, 2009

Thursday June 18, 2009

Monday June 15, 2009

Thursday May 14, 2009

Friday May 08, 2009

Monday May 04, 2009

Monday April 27, 2009

Sunday April 19, 2009

Wednesday April 15, 2009

Friday April 10, 2009

Wednesday March 25, 2009

Monday March 23, 2009

Tuesday March 17, 2009

Friday March 06, 2009

Saturday February 28, 2009

Thursday February 19, 2009

Thursday February 05, 2009

Wednesday February 04, 2009

Monday November 03, 2008

Friday August 08, 2008

Monday July 07, 2008

Sunday November 04, 2007

Sunday October 07, 2007

Saturday September 08, 2007

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