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We would like to take a moment to honor Great Women in History, Did you know that Julia Morgan, whom designed our local “Monday Club” here in San Luis Obispo, was hand-picked by William Randolph Hearst as the Architect for Hearst Castle, for his sprawling million plus acre ranch in Chihuahua, Mexico, but that she single handedly designed over 700 structures in California? Julia Morgan attended Berkeley University where she was the only female engineering student. Not only was Julia raised by a strong and influential woman, she proved that that everything is possible. Julia became the first woman to earn a certificate at the prestigious Ecole de Beaux-Arts.

There have also been women to who have paved the way for others in out Armed Forces; that also have amazing stories to tell. General Ann Dunwoody ,65, was the first woman to command a Battallion, she was also the first woman General Officer at Fort Bragg. Later, she was the fist woman in Us History to be promoted to the rank of four-star general. Way to go!

Brigadier General Wilma Vaught,88, was the first woman who was part of the Strategic Air Command unit when she became temporary executive office of the Management Analysis Division in Guam. Wilma was the first women to be promoted to Brigadier General in the Comptroller Field.

Acknowledging these amazing women blazing trails for our future proves that anything is possible. Thank you to our Armed Forces that dedicated a memorial to all these great women and more, telling their stories serving our Country.

Cheers to these amazing Women, and the many that will follow!

“My buildings will be my legacy… they will speak for me long after I’m gone.” –Julia Morgan

We wanted to remind you to “Stop and smell the Roses” once in a while… Did you know, that researchers have discovered that a simple sniff test, when combined with a brief cognitive exam, can help predict the likelihood of developing Dementia and or Alzheimer’s? Researchers have administered smell tests with as little as five odors. In that test of nearly 3,000 adults, participants had to identify the odors of peppermint (easiest), fish, orange, rose and leather (hardest). Five years later, the results found that older adults with “olfactory dysfunction” (those unable to correctly identify at least 4 out of 5 odors at baseline) had double the chance of developing dementia within the five years following the test. “We think a decline in the ability to smell, specifically, but also sensory function more broadly, may be an important early sign, marking people at greater risk for dementia,” says senior author Jayant M. Pinto, professor of surgery at the University of Chicago.

Fact: Scent cells are renewed every 30/60 days.

Fact: Women have a better sense of smell versus Men.

#elderplacementprofessionals #slolife #nationwide #experts #alzheimers #seniors #sniff #scent #women #men #dementia #research #findacure

Safety tips for Seniors:

1. keep areas de-cluttered
2. Cover sharp edges of furniture
3. be mindful of appropriate lighting
4. rugs have no slip mats underneath to prevent movement

Happy Fun Fact from Elder Placement Professionals!

Studies show that caffeine and coffee can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s, even in seniors who already have some form of mild dementia. Research shows that caffeine blocks inflammation in the brain, specifically adenosine receptors, which can start a chain reaction that begins the mind’s cognitive decline.

Fact: Hypoxia, is what happens when the brain is starved of oxygen (Alzheimer’s/Dementia) Caffeine can affect the brains response; reducing the extent of inflammation.

Fact:  Research has shown that caffeinated coffee increases production of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, which helps the brain in several ways.

Fact: Hawaii is the only American state that grows coffee.

Remember to show affection to your loved one today and everyday! We all need physical touch to survive.

We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.

February 7th is “Go Red for Women” day.

Wear red and show your support and awareness of this dangerous killer. Heart Disease is the number one killer of Women over all forms of Cancer combined. Heart Disease affects all ages of men and women; women face a higher risk  up to 20% higher if they smoke and or use birth control. Heart Disease is responsible for 1 in 4 deaths. (2019 statistics) 610,000 people die a year of Heart Disease. 735,000 will have a heart attack. Staying active and eating healthy always lower your chances of developing Heart Disease.

Include a diet of whole grains and leafy grains in conjunction with  regular activity to decrease your chances.

For those seniors that are adamant about staying at home, here are some tips to make sure that they can do so safely!

1. DE-clutter walk ways. Less clutter means less chance of falling.
2. Add non slip pads underneath area rugs
3. Make sure each room is properly lit. Nightlights, and over head lighting.
4. Install grab bars in bathrooms for safety.
5. Use non slip rubber mats in the bottom of the shower to prevent slipping.

Certain “Smells”can instigate appetite. The scent of Hot Buttered Popcorn can trigger hunger; especially in those that suffer from Dementia and or Alzheimer’s. Scents associated with salty or sweet foods seem to be the strongest triggers. If your loved one is having difficulty eating, try a heart helping of popcorn! Over 70% of the popcorn sold in the United States is consumed at home. Popcorn, a whole grain also contains plenty of fiber to help the senior feel full after eating; it’s also Gluten free!

Try these natural methods and approach when trying to calm your senior loved one that suffers from Dementia:

1. MusicMusic therapy helps seniors calm down and reflect on happier times. According to research from the Alzheimer’s Association, listening to music releases dopamine in the brain and triggers happy feelings throughout the body.

   Music also improves memory function and encourages social engagement.

2. AromatherapyAccording to a study in BJPsych Advances, using scents like lavender can reduce difficult behaviors in older adults with dementia.

   Benefits include improved sleep, decreased agitation, higher concentration and reduced hallucinations.

3. TouchA gentle human touch can create a bond between the caregiver and the senior, resulting in a calming effect. It also helps increase trust. A soft back rub or gentle hand pat may be a way to reduce agitation in a senior loved one.
4. Pet TherapyAccording to Every Day Health, pet therapy has many benefits for seniors with dementia. They include decreased agitation, increased physical activity, increased appetite and joy.
5. A Calm ApproachBehaviors are often determined by the senior’s first interaction with their caregiver.

   As a result, caregivers need to use a calm, open approach when they initially approach their loved one. It’s also crucial to smile and use a warm tone during conversations.

   Positive first impressions are imperative for handling difficult behaviors.

6. Maintain RoutinesOne of the most effective methods for reducing challenging behaviors is by incorporating routine into your senior loved one’s life.
7. Provide ReassurancesAccording to the Alzheimer’s Association, using calming phrases such as “You’re safe here” and ”I’m sorry you are upset” allow your loved to feel safe.

Rainy days are great! Fact: Pluviophile (n) a lover of rain;someone who finds joy and peace of mind during rainy days.

Did you know that seniors can be affected by the weather? Just because we have a rainy day your loved one doesn’t have to be “stuck” in doors with nothing to do. Use this time to do crafts,paint, read or watch classic movies together; make it a marathon! Let Elder Placement Professionals help you find the best facility available that offers great activities like this everyday for your loved one!