Maria Caserta

Caring.com Expert

About

Maria Caserta is a geriatric psychiatrist with a doctorate in neurobiology. She's the associate director of the Memory Center at the University of Chicago, where she is also an associate professor of psychiatry.

Recently Published on Caring.com

  1. Monday November 19, 2007

    1. Can vitamin supplements and herbals slow memory loss due to Alzheimer's disease?

      Answer - No vitamin or herb can improve his memory. Nor can they stop the memory loss. Certain vitamins and prescription drugs, a good diet, exercise, and continuing mental stimulation -- all those things together could be helpful in retaining memory longer, however...

    2. What do I say to my mom when her Alzheimer's causes her to forget the obvious?

      Answer - Avoid saying, "Don't you remember?" because even at the beginnings of Alzheimer's disease, your mom simply doesn't remember. Similarly, when she says something that's incorrect, don't say, "You're wrong!"Instead, make your response positive, and more of a reminder than a correction. Say, "It was great to see you" and focus on the next visit...

  2. Wednesday November 14, 2007

    1. Is dehydration a risk with Alzheimer's?

      Answer - Yes, you do need to be mindful of dehydration. Since your mom has Alzheimer's, she may forget to drink or not realize that she's thirsty. Her medications can also be dehydrating; for example, blood pressure drugs could dry her out even if she does drink some water... 1 Comment