2020 was one of the most challenging years many of us can remember. The anxiety, fear, and isolation brought on by the pandemic created enormous stress — and that’s on top of whatever else we already carry. For those who are caregivers for a loved one during this time, this past year likely felt incredibly overwhelming.
In memory of our friend, Ruth
About four years ago, my friend Ruth, one of True Care's True Bridge clients, started a knitting circle with three of her friends and their caregivers once a week in her apartment in Battery Park. Over the years, Ruth hosted the knitting circle and served snacks and drinks as the ladies knit for about 45 minutes. It was good company, with good music. The knitting circle became a social time for the ladies and a way for Ruth to showcase her strengths and share them with her friends. Ruth lived with Alzheimer’s Disease for about six years, and even though her cognitive memory was fading, her muscle and motor memory continued to flourish.
True Care encourages all of our dedicated health care workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as per New York City, New York State, and Federal recommendations. Please protect yourselves and your patients.
We want to make you aware that New York State and New York City are preparing to offer the vaccine to our #HeroesInOurHomes, including Home Health Aides, CDPAP Personal Assistants, and nurses who are identified as “High-risk health care workers who provide direct in-person care…” Information is frequently being updated on the NYC COVID-19 vaccine location webpage.
The holidays will feel different this year as everyone adjusts their expectations to the reality of 2020. But those who are living with someone with dementia have an extra issue to consider. With all the stress of the year behind us, is it less complicated to not celebrate at all?
During this holiday season, the True Care Family is thankful for many things. We are grateful for our clients, our caregivers, and all of our hardworking office staff. Most of all, we are thankful for your trust as we work together in this challenging time.
Holiday celebrations will undoubtedly look different this year as indoor and outdoor gatherings and travel options are severely limited. Let’s commit to staying in touch with our family members, friends, and neighbors safely so we can all feel connected during the holiday season. Phone calls, voice and video messages, snail-mail letters and cards, and gifts ordered by mail are all great ideas. No gesture is too small; let’s be creative so everyone can feel included in the holiday celebrations.
For National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I’d like to reframe our view of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s one of the most feared diseases and the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. There’s a huge focus on the tragedy of the disease: what’s lost during the disease progression, what can no longer be done, and what can no longer be remembered. It’s true, it is a life-altering diagnosis. There’s a lot of grief, loss, and changing of roles throughout the progress of the disease. Alzheimer’s is not easy to navigate.
