Presenter:  Amy Standridge, MM, MT-BC, Music Therapist - Board Certified  

Through scientific research, music therapy is known to increase physical, mental, and social/emotional functioning. Music therapist Amy Standridge, MM, MT-BC, gives an overview of music therapy for those interested in learning new ways to encourage positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors and reduce the negative ones. The sensory and intellectual stimulation of music can help maintain a person's quality of life - this is especially true for those with cognitive decline.  Learn more about this growing field of Music Therapy, the effects on the brain, and how music therapy can help you as a caregiver improve the quality of life for your loved ones or your clients. 

Reference: Oak Song Music Therapy and Consulting Services, http://oaksongmusictherapy.com/

Presenter:  Amy Standridge, MM, MT-BC, Music Therapist - Board Certified  

Music Therapy has been proven to connect with those who are not always easy to connect with due to either cognitive decline or other disabilities. This new way of breaking through and touching older adults with music is rapidly growing in popularity and acceptance. But what does a music therapy actually look like? Join music therapist Amy Standridge, MM, MT-BC, as she conducts a music therapy group session. Amy has been a board certified music therapist since the year 2000.  She loves what she does and she want to share the benefits of music therapy with others by showing you what an actual session might look like. 

Due to weakened immune systems, older adults may experience difficulties in fighting off infections and have an increased risk for susceptibility to flu, pneumonia, and shingles and other diseases. With this increased risk the need for vaccinations increases. Geriatric Pharmacist Carrie Allen explains why seniors are at an increased risk, what vaccinations they should be receiving, how long the vaccine will last, and how the vaccine will protect you and those around you. She also provides the viewers with the potential immunization side effects and who you should report to should you experience an adverse reaction to a vaccine.

• Influenza "flu"
• Pneumococcal
• Shingles
• Tetanus
• Hepatitis A Vaccine
• Hepatitis B Vaccine 

If you have questions about immunizations/vaccines - Geriatric Pharmacist Carrie Allen will answer them. 

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss

What if there’s no “silver bullet” in  preventing dementia? What if preventing memory loss is instead “silver buckshot”.  Studies performed are suggesting that simple lifestyle changes can prevent and even reverse Alzheimer's disease and associated dementias.

Dr. Weiss' presentation is based on the work done by Dale Bredesen, M.D. physician-author of the book The End of Alzheimer's: The First Program to Prevent and Reverse Cognitive Decline.

In order to prevent or reverse the memory loss we must step back and look at the complexities of cognitive decline. 

• Potential Causes
• Available Screening Tools
• Past Medical History
• Cognoscopy (the term coined by Dale Bredesen, MD) 

This presentation is challenging, informative and offers hope for all. 

Presenter:  Carol Bertsch - Elder Law Attorney 

What do you do when the person you are caring for is no longer able to stay in their own home and they do not have the resources to pay for a nursing home on their own?  While the laws can differ from state to state, elder law attorney Carol Bertsch explains what it takes to qualify for nursing home care with Medicaid. With real life scenarios - this informative video clearly explains this complex process of how Medicaid can help those without the financial resources to pay for nursing home care. 

Additional Videos Presented by Elder Care Attorney Carol Bertsch:

• Powers of Attorney - Give the Power to Someone You Trust
• Who Decides When You Can't? Advanced Directives

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss, Geriatric Psychologist

Loneliness can be described as the discrepancy between a person's desired and actual social relationship. It's a unique situation in which a person perceives themselves to be socially isolated even when among other people. This condition causes a person to be irritable, depressed, self-centered, and can lead to a 29% increase in premature mortality. It's estimated that 1/3 of the population suffers from loneliness and is especially prevalent among seniors.

Dr. Weiss's presentation will help you to better understand this widespread condition with the following information:

• How to Diagnose Loneliness
• The Risk Factors 
• Health Effects 
• The Biology of Loneliness
• Treatment Options 

"Loneliness breaks the spirit." - Jewish Proverb

Presenter:  Dr. George Perry, PhD

It's not often that we get to sit down with someone who is actually conducting Alzheimer's research. We were privileged to have an opportunity to sit down with Dr. George Perry, UTSA Dean of College of Sciences and Professor of Biology, Semmes Foundation Distinguished Chair in Neurobiology and talk about the Alzheimer's research he is doing. 

These are just a few of the questions he answered during our interview: 

• Do we know what causes Alzheimer's disease?
• What are the correlations between diet, exercise and other lifestyle choices play who is a potential to develop Alzheimer's?
• What is the possibility of finding a vaccine for Alzheimer's disease?
• What affects do the current medications have on the disease? 
• What kind of research is currently being done at UTSA?
• What is the process of approval for a drug?
• Why do you think early detection of Alzheimer's is critical?
• What screening tools are used to detect Alzheimer's disease?
• Do you see progress being done to reverse Alzheimer's disease?

Presenter:  Elizabeth Woods, RN

The inability to take medications as prescribed can have serious consequences. Improper medication management is the most common reason seniors are forced to move to assisted living. As caregivers you want to make sure that medications are being taken properly, but being available every time medication needs to be administered can be difficult. And what about those caregivers who are caring for someone long-distance? Fortunately, recent pill box technology has evolved and there are many new options available to help with medication management. 

This video provides examples of the many options now available, functionality, cost and will greatly assist you in determining which device is best for you or your loved one. 

Presenter:  Carol Bertsch, Elder Law Attorney

The job of a caregiver is difficult, but there are tools (Powers of Attorney) that can actually make your caregiving job easier. Having these tools in place before they are needed can alleviate already stressful and tense situations. Attorney Carol Bertsch explains the differences between various powers of attorney, the rights, limitations, what they cover, how to appoint your agent(s), why you need alternate agents, when the POW become effective and more. 

Presenter:  Bill Pemberton 

Poor communication between doctors and patients, and between doctors and nurses, is discussed relatively frequently. But what about confusion between the teams of doctors who share patients in the hospital or clinic?

Miscommunication between a patient’s physicians is a major contributor to treatment and diagnostic mistakes as well as major frustration on the part of the patient.

Bill Pemberton tells his personal story of his two weeks in the hospital and dealing with multiple treating doctors who did not always communicate well with each other. These glitches in communication forced him to stay on top of his medical situation and be his own advocate to help bridge the gaps in communication among the hospital staff.

Presenter:  Elizabeth Woods, RN

Simple tasks such as dressing and undressing can sometimes be an issue when caring for the elderly. And no one wants to spend their time in institutional clothing such a hospital gown, but for those with physical limitations this can be the easier option. Adaptive clothing can help. Learn more about the many benefits of adaptive clothing for seniors who are living with physical limitations, those who are uncomfortable being touched or moved and the caregivers.

This video includes:

• Benefits of adaptive clothing for both the caregiver and the care-receiver.
• Examples: Tops, Pants and Shoes, and Wheelchair Options.
• Where can adaptive clothing be purchased?
• How to modify regular clothing into adaptive clothing.

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

Wound care case studies are a great way to fully understand what influences effective wound care treatments. Wound care specialist Dianne Rudolph will walk you through five unique case studies to help you better understand the complexities of wound care assessments, classifications and treatments.  

For additionals case studies: Chronic Wound Care Case Studies - Part 2

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

Wound care case studies are a great way to fully understanding what influences effective wound care treatments.

Wound care specialist Dianne Rudolph will walk you through five unique case studies to help you  better understand the complexities of wound care assessments, classifications and treatments.

For additional case studies: Chronic Wound Care Case Studies - Part 1

An up close and personal story of caring from a caregiver's perspective -  Dawn Hamilton was motivated to share her experiences of caring for her husband who suffered from Lewy Body Dementia in hopes of helping others who are experiencing this difficult disease. She shares actual footage of her husband John's painful hallucinations, her thoughts and feelings about the difficulties she faced convincing doctors that something was not right, her advice about what she learned along the way, and how laughter helped them get through some of the difficult days.

Presenter: Carrie Allen, PharmD, CGP

Older adults are highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of psychotropic medications which are commonly used to manage behavior and psychiatric symptoms. This video presented by Carrie Allen, a Certified Geriatric Pharmacist covers:

• What are "psychotropic" medications?
• Why are older adults at a higher risk for side effects?
• What are the primary classes of psychotropic medications?
• Common side effects of anti-psychotics, antidepressants, anti-anxiety, mood stabilizers, sedatives and stimulants.
• What is psychosis?

This is a must watch for anyone caring for an older adult who has been prescribed psychotropic medications. 

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Seminar fraud and scams are everywhere and the majority of these events present sales materials that are exaggerated, misleading and unwarranted. This video will open your eyes to the crafty techniques scammers are using to increase the likelihood of you participating. Don't be the next victim of an investment seminar scam.

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Have you had to quit a job to care for a loved one? If so, this time away caring for a loved one may have caused a serious gap in your resume. When you are ready and able to return to work this gap can possibly impact your ability to get a job. Unsure of how to explain your resume gap due to caregiving? Maria offers practical advice about re-entering the workforce after time away from a job caring for a loved one and re-enter the workforce with confidence and ease. 

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

A leg wrap is commonly used for the management of edema and venostasis ulcers. Watch this short demonstration of the proper techniques for applying a leg compression wrap. 

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

For those who struggle to balance caregiving responsibilities with employment duties - life can be stressful and days can be long. There are only 24 hours in a day and when you have so much to do - you sometimes neglect yourself in order to get it all done. In this video Maria offers advice  for keeping your job and saving your sanity. 

• How to accept advice from friends and family?
• Resources that can help lighten the load.
• The importance of support groups and respite care.

Employed and Caring for a Loved One - Part 1

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Are you struggling to balance caregiving responsibilities with your employment duties. Do you feel one or the other is suffering from being stretched too far. If so you are not alone. In this video Maria Wellisch offers her advice for keeping your job and saving your sanity. 

• Using FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) effectively
• Tapping into your EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
• Consider a Geriatric Case Manager 

Employed and Caring for a Loved One - Part 2

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

We don't often think of fraud when we think of charity - but unfortunately there is fraud in charitable giving. It's important to know if our donations are going to safe reputable organizations and that our credit card information is handled safely and securely. Our elderly population are often targets of this particular form of elder fraud. As caregivers it's important to learn to give safely and help those you care for stay safe as well.

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

In Parts 1, 2 and 3 of this series covered classification of wounds, and the concepts of wound healing and assessments. In this final module - the presenter covers wound management, which includes:

• Cleansing
• Tissue Management
• Debridement
• Infection
• Moisture Balance
• Edges
• Epibole
• Factors that affect healing
• Pain

Note: This is Pt. 4 of a series of wound care trainings: The Science of Wound Healing

Part 1: Wound Classification 
Part 2: What is Wound Healing?
Part 3: Wound Assessment

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

In Parts 1 and 2 of this series covered classification of wounds, and the concepts of wound healing. In Part 3 - the presenter will continue with the concepts involved in wound assessment including location, size, depth, tunneling/undermining, tissue type, wound edges, exudate and periwound area using a wound assessment model. This video also includes a demonstration on undermining and tunneling in wound care. 

Note: This is Pt. 3 of a series of wound care trainings: The Science of Wound Healing

Part 1: Wound Classification
Part 2: What is Wound Healing?
Part 4: Wound Management

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

In Part 1 of this series we discussed the classification of wounds, partial vs. full thickness wounds, and the staging of pressure injuries. In Part 2  the presenter will move on to the concepts of wound healing. Having a good understanding of what wound healing entails is important to determining treatment strategy. This video covers the following on wound healing:

• Healing Differences Between Partial and Full Thickness Wounds 
• Regeration Healing
• Tissue Repair
• Hemostasis & Inflammation
• Proliferation 
• Re-epithelialization
• Maturation/Remodeling

Part 1: Wound Classification 
Part 3: Wound Assessment
Part 4: Wound Management

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

Wound assessment and classification is an important cornerstone which allows you to determine a plan of care and move on to properly manage the patient's wound. This video covers: 

• Wound Classifications
• Wound Thickness
• Systematic Wound Assessment
• Phases of Wound Healing
• Principles of Wound Management

Part 2: What is Wound Healing?
Part 3: Wound Assessment
Part 4: Wound Management

Presenter: Dianne Murray Rudolph, APRN, GNP-BC, CWOCN, UTHSCSA

Foot related problems are just one of many complications of diabetes. Many foot related complications can be avoided with early detection, diagnosis and treatment. This video will explain how to perform a diabetic foot exam and help you identify any potential issues.

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Seniors are not the only ones who are victims of scams, but unfortunately they are often considered easy targets. Scammers are always coming up with new ways to deceive people for their personal gain. In order to protect yourself and those you love you must be aware of the potential scams and how they work. Don't be the next victim of an unfortunate scam and share this information with those you love and want to protect. 

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

We've all heard the saying "If it's sounds too good to be true - it probably is." But for many, the temptation is too great - especially seniors. Learn more about the many lottery, sweepstakes and prize scams targeting seniors and how to avoid this potential form of elder abuse.

Presenter:  Maria W. Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Tax scam fraud is one of the many potential scams that are surfacing and targeting our older population. Because of respect and sometimes fear of the IRS, many seniors are quick to listen and do what the scammer is asking for them to do to avoid penalties and fines. Learn more about some of the common tax scams, how to avoid them, and how to protect yourself, others and especially seniors as they seem to be a common target for this type of scam.

Presenter: Linda Sendaula

Linda openly admits that when her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease she was in denial and unable to come to terms with what the diagnosis would mean for her and her family. Her husband was the one who researched and learned all he could about Alzheimer's and what his life would look like living with this disease. At her husband's insistence - Linda finally agreed to discuss the horror of the disease and talk about how they would handle his care as the disease progressed.

In this short video Linda shares her story of how she moved from a reluctant caregiver for her husband to being a "professional" Alzheimer's volunteer. 

Presenter: Linda Sendaula

Linda Sendaula cared for her husband who had Alzheimer's for seven years. She went from being a reluctant caregiver to being a "professional" Alzheimer's volunteer. In this video series she shares some of her knowledge that she learned along the way in hopes of helping others who are traveling this journey.

In this short video Linda tell us what surprised her the most as she cared for her husband and watched the progression of this disease. 

Presenter: Linda Sendaula

Linda Sendaula spent seven years as the primary caregiver for her husband who suffered with Alzheimer's. She went from being a reluctant caregiver to finding her voice as a caregiver through the difficult journey to becoming a "professional" Alzheimer's volunteer. She is now committed to helping others through the struggles and frustrations of caring for someone with Alzheimer's. 

In this short video Linda answers the following questions: 

• What advice would you give caregivers to help them cope with the guilt and frustration involved with caregiving?
• How did your children react to your husband's Alzheimer's diagnosis?

Presenter: Linda Sendaula

As primary caregiver for her husband who suffered from Alzheimer's - Linda Sendaula encountered many obstacles in her seven years as a caregiver. From juggling a full time job and her caregiving duties, the stigma associated with Alzheimer's, and even questioning her faith. Through her experience as caregiver -she was able to "find her voice" and she is committed to helping others who are walking this same caregiving path. She has gone from being a reluctant caregiver to being what she calls a "professional" Alzheimer's volunteer. 

In Part 4 of this series Linda shares her answers to the following questions: 

• What could employers do to more fully understand the needs of caregivers?
• Do you feel there is a stigma with Alzheimer's? 
• What part did you faith play in coping with your husband's Alzheimer's disease?

Presenter: Linda Sendaula

Linda openly admits that when her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease she was in denial and unable to come to terms the diagnosis in the beginning. She went on to care for her husband for seven years before his death. 

In this short video Linda explains the ugly reality of this disease, offers advice for anyone who may be in denial about their loved one's Alzheimer's disease and shares the signs that led her to seek help for her husband. 

Presenter: Spencer Brown, CMC, LNFA, MSG, Aging Care Manager

With so many senior living community options - how do you know what is best for you or your loved one?

Spencer Brown provides the much needed information on what you need to know about senior living communities and introduces you to personal care homes. He will help you understand the differences between residental care homes and personal care homes as well as differentiate between licensed and unlicensed settings.

If you are considering a senior living community for yourself or a loved one - this video will provide the answers to your many questions. 

Over 2.3 million people are affected worldwide with Multiple Sclerosis. Epidemiologist have identified factors in the distribution of MS around the world that may eventually help determine the cause of the disease. The NMSS is an excellent source for individuals living with MS, their families, healthcare providers and caregivers. They are up-to-date on the latest research, diagnostic options, medications and advancements in this disease. This short video will help you to understand this complex disease, and learn about lifestyle changes that will help you take control of your overall health or the health of your loved one with MS. Learn how you can get connected and make a difference for those affected with Multiple Sclerosis.

Presenter: National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Multiple Sclerosis is a complex disease that impacts the brain and spinal cord. MS can cause an variety of unpredictable symptoms such as numbness, tingling, fatigue, blindness, paralysis and more. This short video will help you to understand this complex disease, available therapies and treatment options and where to go to learn more about MS. 

Presenter:  Maria Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Wandering and elopement are very real threats for someone suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's. For caregivers this is of great concern. Raising awareness, understanding the risk factors, and taking appropriate preventative measures can lead to best outcomes.The information in this video will greatly assist those caring for someone in the home or professional caregivers in long term care settings in keeping our aging loved ones safe.

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss

Convincing someone to see a psychiatrist can be challenging and awkward. Sometimes you need to get creative with how you approach this difficult situation for it to go smoothly and without incident. With his usual wit and humor, Dr. Weiss, a geriatric psychiatrist, will walk you through some ideas for carefully approaching this delicate subject with your loved one. 

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss

When patients are nearing end stage dementia the question often arises "When is it time to stop dementia medications?" This is a really difficult question for many and unfortunately there is not an easy answer. Geriatric Psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Weiss will walk you through this hard decision and give you guidelines and examples of what you should consider when making this onerous decision. 

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss

Always a difficult situation - you feel your loved one is no longer safe to operate a vehicle and they insist they are fine.This loss of independence can be devastating to many. How do you insist that your aging loved one stop driving - for their safety as well as the safety of others? Geriatric Psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Weiss gives you samples and real life scenarios for tackling this difficult situation.

Presenter:  Natasha Dinani - Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

When mobility isn't what it used to be due to increased age, injuries from falls, or joint replacements - assistance may be needed to fulfill many of our activities of daily living.

This video will guide you through six adaptive devices that will assist you with bathing and dressing.

• Dressing Stick
• Reacher/Grabber
• Long Handle Shoe Horn
• Button Hook
• Sock Aid
• Long Handle Sponge

The presenter will also cover upper body and hand strengthening exercises that will assist you or your aging loved one to increase strength and gain independence in fulfilling activities of daily living. 

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss

Loss is a part of aging - loss of relationships, health, a job, driving. At the same time, depression is not a normal part of aging. Dr. Weiss, a geriatric psychiatrist, will provide an overview of signs, symptoms and treatment of depression in older adults.

Presenter:  Dr. Thomas Weiss, Geriatric Psychologist

One-third of our life is spent sleeping - but sleep is much more than simply resting. Sleep is an important and essential element for a person's health and well being. A lack of regular sufficient sleep can create a large spectrum of symptoms and problems with energy levels, immune systems, cellular structures, and memory - all of which are being repaired or restored as you sleep.

Dr. Thomas Weiss will cover the following and more about sleep: 

• The Functions of Sleep
• Physiology of Sleep
• Sleep Stages

Hidden Heroes brings vital attention to the untold stories of military caregivers and seeks solutions for the tremendous challenges and long-term needs they face.  This is the caregiving story of Roxana and Victor.  In 2009, Roxana's suddenly became a caregiver for her husband Victor when he was in a vehicle that was hit by an explosive formed projectile. He sustained a moderate TBI along with other injuries. During his two and a half year rehabilitation, Roxana and Victor identified gaps in the healthcare system surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of TBIs. With Roxana's research background in health sciences, they worked to shape new military healthcare policies.

Roxana Delgado, an Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow, is committed to expanding medical research in the military community.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
Caring for someone who is suffering from PTSD is difficult at best. PTSD is a serious condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. This disorder can have significant impact on functioning and quality of life, and it should be diagnosed and treated according to the best available evidence. In this presentation Navy Reserve Psychiatrist, Dr. Thomas Weiss, discusses the physiology, symptoms, diagnostics and treatments of PTSD and will help you to understand the disorder and allow you to better care for your loved one.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
Ninety percent of all non-reversible cognitive impairment cases can be attributed to four types of clinical dementia syndromes.  In this video, we explore the differences in dementia syndromes, including Alzheimer’s Disease, Vascular Dementia, Dementia with Lewy Body, and Frontotemporal Dementia, and what they mean to patients and caregivers.

Daily mouth care should not stop because a person has missing teeth, in fact, taking care of dentures in the mouth is just as important as brushing natural teeth on a daily basis. This video covers:

• Importance of Oral Health
• Denture Care Protocol
• Infection Control
• Identifying Visible Mouth or Denture Problems
• Supplies and Steps to Denture Care and Cleaning. 

While this video is being presented to CNA's in a health care facility - this information is relevant to anyone responsible for the oral care of another. 

Presenter: The Texas Oral Health Coalition, Inc. 

Presenter: Maria Wellisch, RN, LNFA

Medications are complex and unfortunately we have all made mistakes when it comes to medications. This short video will give you a clearer undersanding of these 10 medication terms to help you avoid potential medication errors. 

Presenter: Kirti Carter, MD, MPH

Dr. Kirti Carter explains the many benefits associated with meditation and guided relaxation. She will then walk you through a guided relaxation exercise to help you calm your mind and reduce stress. It is suggested that you watch Dr. Carter's first video "Sky Meditation: Breath Based Relaxation" prior to watching this video. The breathing techniques will enhance your guided meditation. 

Presenter: Kirti Carter, MD, MPH

When the demand is greater than the energy available to meet the demand you will experience stress. This is often the case for caregivers. Dr. Kirti Carter, a strong advocate for stress free and healthy living will walk you through three breath based relaxation techniques than can be used to help reduce stress. A great introduction to meditation and relaxation techniques.

• Ultimate Nostril Breathing
• Bellows Breath
• Ocean Sound Breath

Presenter: Carrie Allen, PharmD, CGP

Certified Pharmacist Carrie Allen believes EVERYONE has a responsibility in preventing medication errors and ensuring the safety of all residents in long term care. High-alert medications are drugs that bear a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error. Although mistakes may or may not be more common with these drugs, the consequences of an error are clearly more devastating to patients.

Get the facts about high alert drugs, how to avoid costly medication errors, and ensure the safety of all patients in your care because of your good practice. 

This is a must watch for anyone working in long term care.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
If your caregiving duties become extra challenging in the late afternoon, you're not alone. In fact, many people experience behavioral changes such as confusion, anxiety, agitation, or aggressiveness with increased motor activity like pacing, wandering, resistance to redirection, and increased verbal activity like yelling during this particular time of day. In this webcast Dr. Weiss walked us through this common phenomenon known as "Sundowning" or "Nocturnal Delirium" and helps us understand the underlying causes, risk factors, epidemiology, and management techniques.

Stem Cell injections offer an untapped potential to manage pain naturally as well as rebuild cartilage and collagen which regenerates damaged tissues, assists with repair processes, and offers alternatives to costly and risky surgeries.

Presenter:  Maria Wellisch, RN, LNFA
For people caring for an elderly family member, it can be challenging as you figure out how to cope with dementia. Support from family members is not always forthcoming and decision-making has the potential to erode family relationships. This video explores the conflict and strain that often exists when caring for a loved one with dementia and gives families helpful hints to handle this conflict and move forward with positive caregiving.

Presenter: Carol Bertsch - Elder Law Attorney, San Antonio, Texas

Attorney Carol Bertsch gives an overview of what older adults and their families should consider related to advance care planning. Her presentation provides a foundation for individuals and families to use as they consider what they want to do in terms of advance care planning.

• What are advance directives?
• What do they do?
• Who needs one? 

Presenter: Nancy Rosana Zalazar

Sky Meditation: Breath Based Relaxation
When the demand is greater than the energy available to meet the demand you will experience stress. This is often the case for caregivers. The presenter, a strong advocate for stress free and healthy living, will walk you through three breath based relaxation techniques than can be used to help reduce stress. A great introduction to meditation and relaxation techniques.

• Ultimate Nostril Breathing
• Bellows Breath
• Ocean Sound Breath

Presenter: Nancy Rosana Zalazar

Sky Mediation - Guided Relaxation
The presenter explains the many benefits associated with meditation and guided relaxation. She will then walk you through a guided relaxation exercise to help you calm your mind and reduce stress. It is suggested that you watch the first video "Relajación Basado en la Respiración" prior to watching this video. The breathing techniques will enhance your guided meditation. 

In this video Dr. Srinath K. Tamirisa, Kidney and HTN Specialist will cover the relationship beween diabetes and kidney disease as well as:

• The different types of diabetes.
• What happens when you have a high sugar level.
• How diabetes causes kidney damage.
• The stages of chronic kidney disease.
• Signs of kidney disease in patients with diabetes.  
• How dialysis works and what you can expect. 
• What can be done to keep your kidneys working for as long as possible. 

 In Living with Heart Failure Module 1: Identifying the Problem, Beverly Tuomala, BSN, RN, CHFN, Heart Failure Nurse answers these questions and more: 

• What is heart failure?
• What causes heart failure?
• How is heart failure diagnosed?
• What does heart failure look like?
• What can be done to improve the transition of care?

In Living with Heart Failure Module 2: Medications and Therapies, Beverly Tuomala, BSN, RN, CHFN, Heart Failure Nurse will help you to understand the complex medications used to treat heart failure as well as various therapies available to those living with heart failure.

• Diuretics
• Potassium
• Ace-Inhibitors/ARB's
• Beta Blockers
• Digoxin
• IV Medications
• Pacemakers/Defibrilators
• VAD

 In Living with Heart Failure Module 3: Sodium/Fluid Restriction, Beverly Tuomala, BSN, RN, CHFN, Heart Failure Nurse explains why sodium and fluid restriction is so important to those suffering from heart failure. She will also answer the following questions and more.

• What is the recommended sodium it a good recomment causes heart failure?
• What is the correlation between the kidneys and heart failure?
• What foods are considered to be "low sodium" or "sodium safe" foods? 
• What should you order when eating out on a sodium restricted diet?
• Why is education so important for someone on a sodium restricted diet?

 In Living with Heart Failure Module 4: Putting It All Together, Beverly Tuomala, BSN, RN, CHFN, Heart Failure Nurse recaps the other three modules: Identifying the Problem, Medications and Therapies, Sodium/Fluid Restrictions and gives you practical ways to improve compliance when living with heart failure. Including: 

• The Importance of Written Schedules and Weighing Daily
• Medication Tips 
• Practical Ways to Reduce Demands on the Heart 
• Balancing Exercise and Rest: How do you know if you are doing too much or too little?

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using a shoe shine box. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using Tupperware. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using a pocketbook. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using dolls. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using a tool box. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age-appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age-appropriate activity using silverware. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age-appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age-appropriate activity using paint chips or swatches from a hardware store. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using a simple jewelry box. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using animated stuffed animals or "Breathing Pets." This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

From one of our viewers: 
Thought I would pass on that I just gave my mom a "breathing" dog for her birthday.  She absolutley loves it!! And it seems to be a hit with some of the other patients where she lives. So glad for the suggestion.  Was not sure how she would react, as her dementia is not severe...she is aware that it is not "real", but she is delighted by it!  I hope others will enjoy a pet as well!

Coming up with age-appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using feather dusters. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age-appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a purposeful activity by offering coupons for clipping. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

Coming up with age-appropriate activities that give dementia patients purpose and meaning is difficult. This video offers a simple age appropriate activity using PVC Pipe. This is a great activity for family caregivers who are caring for someone at home, activity directors in assisted living facilities, or anyone caring for someone with dementia.

What happens to medications after the expiration date? What are the potential dangers of taking expired meds? How do you know when medications are no longer safe to use? Get the facts about medication expiration dates from Certified Geriatric Pharmacist Carrie Allen. 

Proper oral care can be a challenge when caring for someone with dementia. Simple, concise instructions, new techniques, and maybe even alternative equipment may be needed. This webcast will help you to help you understand and provide proper oral care for someone with dementia. 

Presenter:  Nina Galicki, University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio, TX
Periodontics Department - Dental Hygiene Division 

Presenter: Carrie Allen, PharmD, CGP

A “med pass” is the common term used to describe the process of dispensing medicine to nursing home patients as ordered. Medication errors in nursing homes and other inpatient medical facilities are recognized as a common problem in the medical field. This webcast covers the skills necessary to conduct a perfect med-pass and ensure the safety of both the resident and the nurse.

• Professionalism
• Hippa
• Technical
• Infection Control
• Med Safety

Chronic Pain Management at a Crossroads - Addressing a Public Health Crisis

Chronic Pain the most common reason that people visit a doctor's office in the USA. This is especially true for aging seniors. People are searching for ways to manage chronic pain. Barbara Turner, MD,MSED walks us through this complex issue of how and why this is a public health crisis as well as answering the following questions and more:

What is Chronic Pain and how is this impacting the U.S.?
What are the risks and benefits of opioid therapy in managing chronic pain?
Where are we going with chronic pain managment?
Is there a role for non-pharmacologic managment?

As caregivers of older adults, caring for those with dexterity issues can make senior dental care difficult and challenging. In this video Brittney Wappes offers tips, techniques, and toothbrush modifications, to help improve dexterity and maximize independent oral care. 

Presenter:  Brittney Wappes - University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio,TX
Periodontics Department - Dental Hygiene Division 

Issues in the mouth can have a significant impact on the quality of life, especially for seniors. Oral health is often thought to be an indicator of your overall health and wellness. This video will help caregivers of older adults who are responsible for senior dental care to identify normal oral structures as well as cancers and other suspicious lesions. 

Presenter:  Bree Valentic - University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio,TX
Periodontics Department - Dental Hygiene Division 

Proper denture and partial care is important for maintaining the life of the dentures as well as avoiding infectious diseases. This video provides the viewer all you need to know about caring for dentures and partials for successful senior dental care including maintenance, cleaning and storage techniques and securing and removing dentures. 

Presenter:  Brittney Wappes -University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio, TX
Periodontics Department - Dental Hygiene Division 

Keeping dentures secure and comfortable is important for everyone. As a caregiver caring for someone who has dentures it is important to know the proper techniques for securing and removing the dentures as well as the the types of adhesives available and how to use them. This video offers techniques for securing and removing dentures for successful senior dental care.

Presenter:  Nina Galicki, University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio, TX
Periodontics Department - Dental Hygiene Division 

Communication is key in building trust with dental patients.This is especially true with senior dental care and those with dementia. Great tips and techniques for success in dental care of the elderly. 

Presenter:  Bree Valentic, University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio, TX
Periodontics Department - Dental Hygiene Division 

Hepatitis C is the most common blood borne infection.This common yet often undiagnosed virus can lead to liver failure and cancer if not detected early.

Learn more about the regulatory agenda to reduce the inappropriate use of anti-psychotics in long term care. Dr. Smith will cover the following:

• Defining inappropraite antipsychotic use
• Brief History of Anti-Psychotic Reduction in LTC
• BPSD Treatment
• Ways to decrease inapprpopriate Anti-Psychotic use in a LTC facility.

Psychoactive or psychotropic medications are any medications that are meant to affect your mind, emotions and/or behavior. Because these drugs can alter a person's behavioral tendencies or urges they can be described as "Chemical Restraints". Many of these medications have significant side effects and long-term consequences. Certified Geriatric Pharmacist Carrie Allen explains what drugs are considered psychotropic drugs, tips for evaluating behaviors, and the importance of limiting the use of these over-prescribed drugs in long-term-care facilities.  

What should you look for in a long term care facility? What are the most important questions to ask? Who should you be speaking with? All of these are important questions that families often need answers to when they make the decision to find care for a loved one or parent. 

Presenter: Dr. Beth Goethe and Dr. Martha Leatherman

In this presentation by Dr. Beth Goethe and Dr. Martha E. Leatherman, you'll learn how to appropriately interact with and treat seniors dealing with dementia. For those looking for videos of caregiving training online, this is an important piece to learn as you or your staff interact with people dealing with dementia.

Presenter:  Fr. Jimmy Drennan
Fr. Drennan reflects on the value and importance of providing health and health care to those we love. Through prayer, he expresses sincere gratitude for those who have answered the vocation to serve as doctor, nurse, aide, orderly, volunteer, and caregiver. 

A fear of falling is something many of our loved ones do not like to talk about. Many older adults worry that they may “end up in a nursing home” if their family or doctor learns they are having falls. This perception can lead to a higher risk of future falls, as their fear actually becomes a fall risk factor. This video discusses fall prevention for the elderly, starting with one of the most important tools: Communication.

Hearing loss affects many people, especially older adults; however, there are many hearing resources available. As such, this video addresses several issues pertaining to hearing loss, including signs of hearing loss, its effect on relationships, common causes of hearing loss, and solutions that can help with the hearing loss.

This free educational resource provides comfort and encouragement for people who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The 25-minute free Parkinsons information video includes testimonials from people with Parkinson's on how they learned to cope and live with the diagnosis, scientific and medical information from healthcare experts, and helpful tips and resources.

*To access the Spanish Subtitles – Please Click Here

Presenter: Andrea Wirt, RN, GNP-C

Caregiver stress is defined as suffering of the mind or body, as severe physical or mental strain. It is subjective and unique to each individual, and it can result in loss of energy, exhaustion, feeling out of control, feeling tense or nervous, lacking interest in things you used to like to do, or becoming isolated. This video helps answer the question, “What do I do to get rid of caregiver stress?”  

One of the challenges that face pastoral caregivers is the bias that they will try to save, heal, or convert people, and that professional caregivers need to be installed in the caregiving position. In Boundaries of Caregiving, Chaplain Spidell presents a discussion that delineates the fine lines of boundaries between the pastoral caregiver and the care receiver. The video serves as a prayer for caregivers, both pastoral and professional.

In this prayer for caregivers, Sylvia Maddox inspires viewers to bring the gift of presence, the gift of a listening heart, and the gift of retrieving the anchor of faith to the people they care for. These blessings at the threshold can make a huge difference in the lives and health of a loved one.

Serving as a prayer for caregivers, in this video Kay Gerfers explores the value of forgiveness when it comes to caring for someone who has caused us hurt or pain. She reminds us that forgiving is not a one-time task, but something that must be done over and over again throughout our lives. She recounts her relationship in caring for and forgiving her own father to help viewers apply forgiveness in their personal situations.

Ladies, does coughing, sneezing, laughing or simple lifting cause you to suddenly leak urine? Are you always running to the bathroom and worried that you might not make it in time? Bladder weakness, also known as urinary incontinence, affects millions of women, but simple, effective solutions are available. This video addresses women’s common urinary health concerns, including the types of female urinary tract infections or women UTI, along with the causes and treatments. 

Blood sugar monitor elderly – This is a common search that older adults with diabetes often perform to understand why they should regularly monitor their blood sugar. Many people with diabetes “prick” their fingers, but don’t understand why they have to do it. They don’t check their blood sugar, or they frequently stop doing it because “it hurts,” “my sugar is always high,” “I feel okay,” “the strips are expensive,” “I am scared of needles” or other reasons. This video module explains the importance of – and reasons for -- monitoring blood sugar in the elderly.

In this tips for aging video, urologist Dr. David Talley leads a discussion about men's health issues including prostate cancer, enlarged prostate, and erectile dysfunction. Dr. Talley explains that these are three of the most common issues that can have a real impact on men’s lives. 

There comes a time for most people when living independently is no longer an option. But, a move to a long-term care facility and the loss of independence can cause concern for many seniors. At this time, residents and families can find needed support from a facility ombudsman. This video discusses the role of the ombudsman and how they can help residents and families find peace of mind as they make a transition out of their homes and into long-term care.

There is often confusion and questions surrounding the use of a Foley catheter. In this presentation, urologist David Talley, MD, demonstrates the types, use, and care of a Foley catheter, alleviating fears and anxieties and making caregivers and patients feel more comfortable about its use.

As a caregiver to an older adult, you are probably juggling multiple doctors, specialists, prescription drugs, tests and more. The thought of adding another doctor to the mix probably doesn't seem like a good idea. Yet, a geriatrician might be just who you are looking for. Just as a pediatrician tends to the needs of a child, a geriatrician is trained to care for the special needs of seniors. In this video, you’ll learn more about the role of geriatricians and how they can help the senior in your life.

An important part of being a senior caregiver is understanding the many available medications for elderly patients, including over-the-counter (OTC) ones. This can be challenging, as most people take OTC drugs and supplements without a second thought. Other times, we stand before an array of different medicines and are left with questions: Which one is best for headaches? What is the difference among anti-inflammatory medications? What should elders steer clear of? In this second installment of our two-part video series, we answer these questions to help you better manage medications for elderly patients and know the perks and pitfalls of powerful OTC drugs.

*To access the Spanish Subtitles – Please Click Here

An important part of being a senior caregiver is understanding the many available medications for elderly patients, including over-the-counter (OTC) ones. This can be challenging, as most people take OTC drugs and supplements without a second thought. Other times, we stand before an array of different medicines and are left with questions: Which one is best for headaches? What is the difference among anti-inflammatory medications? What should elders steer clear of? In this first installment of our two-part video series, we answer these questions to help you better manage medications for elderly patients and know the perks and pitfalls of powerful OTC drugs.

*To access the Spanish Subtitles – Please Click Here

If you’re a caregiver, an important issue to keep in mind is hypoglycemia in seniors. Some people with diabetes know the symptoms of low blood sugar and what to do when their blood sugar gets low. However, many do not know what to do to avoid a drop in blood sugar. Others don’t know the symptoms of low blood sugar, what to do if their blood sugar gets low, or how to avoid it. This video helps people with diabetes – and especially seniors and their caregivers – ensure the best care possible when blood sugar drops.

If you’re caring for an older person, it is natural to have questions about how to use assisted devices. Properly using devices such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, crutches, prosthetic devices, and orthotic devices is essential for the senior’s stability, safety, and security. This video teaches caregivers how to safely use and adjust assisted devices, revealing the common mistakes people often make and how to avoid them. The presenter also discusses safe transfers and how to navigate different terrains. 

This energetic, enlightening video provides specific details and role-playing scenarios for pastors and clergy on how to visit and genuinely connect with a person who has dementia. While the focus may be aimed at pastors, the video provides a prayer for caregivers everywhere, offering family members and healthcare professionals information they will value.

This video helps viewers understand and apply the 2012 Beers List of potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults to real-life situations.

In low vision rehabilitation, the goal is to teach the individual with vision loss how to perform daily tasks with reduced visual function. In this video, Dr. Sandra Fox discusses the role of the low vision optometrist, what to expect during the evaluation, and how to get the most out of low vision rehabilitation.

As we get older, our vision diminishes. Simply put, we do not see how we used to see. But there is good news. With low vision rehabilitation there are ways to teach individuals with vision loss how to perform daily tasks with reduced visual function. In this video, Dr. Sandra Fox discusses the role of the low vision optometrist, and what to expect during an evaluation.

The federal government mandates that all packaged food must have a food label. Understanding these labels is essential for good nutrition in the elderly and in people of all ages. This video teaches viewers how to read and understand food labels, and ignore manufacturer claims made on packaging as they’re going through the grocery store. The most important rule: Read it before you buy it.

Presenter:  David Smith, M.D., FAAFP, CMD - Geriatric Consultants of Central Texas, PA

Adult sibling relationships are diverse and sometimes complicated. And you may not realize how complicated they are until you are suddenly forced to come together to provide aging parents support. For many, dealing with family members is a major cause of caregiver stress. This video helps people navigate common issues that families face when caring for loved ones and respond to things people often say, such as “"I'm the youngest of five and my siblings still treat me like the baby," and "My sister has always been bossy and she thinks she's in charge.” This video teaches adult children how to best work together and deal with the complicated family dynamics.

Bladder infections after menopause are common five years after menopause or after taking estrogen supplements. This video walks users through the causes of bladder infections or UTIs in women after menopause and discusses treatments and solutions. 

People who turn 65 or are under 65 and have a disability may be eligible for Medicare, and it is common to think that Medicare plans cover all medical expenses such as hospital stays. However, that is not always the case. You may find yourself wondering, what is Medicare, and why are you being billed for things that Medicare doesn’t cover. This informative presentation discusses the top eight Medicare issues that can cost you money and how to navigate your way through them.

The incidence of stress urinary incontinence in men can increase with age. This video discusses the condition and male incontinence treatment options, including the use of pads, catheters, and clamps and practicing kegel exercises, which involve the contraction and relaxation of perineal muscles. Also discussed are medications, injectable bulking agents, and surgery.

Male sexual dysfunction can have a significant impact on adult men of all ages. When it comes to erectile dysfunction, elderly patients are no exception. This video discusses how male sexual dysfunction can affect orgasm capacity, ejaculation, libido, and the health and happiness of partners, as well as the many treatment options available.

Seniors who become sick or injured often are admitted to emergency rooms or hospitals. While these places provide excellent medical care, they often introduce a new risk to patients in the form of transfer trauma, increased infections, bedsores, and other serious conditions. In this video, Dr. Raji provides an informative look at how we can reduce the need for transfers and avoid the infections and other conditions that often accompany them. By watching this video, families and caregivers can learn important information to better care for patients and help take the trauma out of transfers. 

Elder abuse can be difficult to recognize and prove because victims are often overlooked, ignored, disbelieved, or simply abandoned. With over a decade of experience as an elder abuse prosecutor with the San Diego County District Attorney’s office, Paul Greenwood shares ten tips he has learned through experience with hundreds of elder abuse cases that can help prevent abuse. This video helps older adults, caregivers, and professionals working with elders become more aware of the types of crimes that are being done against seniors, and take active, effective steps to protect older people and ensure they do not become victims of elder abuse.

Presenter: Dr. Jane Watson, Audiologist

When you or someone you’re caring for needs a hearing aid, it can generate many questions. One hearing aid FAQ is "What should I ask before I buy?" In this video audiologist Dr. Jane Watson answers this question plus four others addressing new technologies, price, and more. 

*To access the Spanish Subtitles – Please Click Here

Home break-ins happen all too frequently, and protecting your home is imperative, especially in the case of seniors. Even if you think you have nothing to steal, you do. Crooks are looking for valuables, along with personal papers, financial information, and even Medicare statements that will aid in identity theft. They are even seeking medications, painkillers, and any other pills you may have. In this video, Deputy Sandy Atherton gives tips for how to stop elderly home invasions, covering how to secure doors and windows and set up outside barriers. 

In this video on spirituality and dementia, Jan McCann, RN, MHSP, of the Long Term Care Institute at Texas State University, addresses some of the spiritual and emotional challenges faced by residents in long-term care. She explains how caregivers can best care for loved ones when those needs end up taking a back seat to physical care needs and regulatory priorities. 

Graying hair and furrowing facial lines may say to the world that someone is aging, but aging is not just about the way we look. There are physiological changes elderly people go through that can be much more obvious and create a major impact on daily functioning. This video discusses what happens physiologically as we age, and how the decline of organ systems may be rapid and dramatic, or slow and subtle.

In this question and answer session on The Nature of Coping, the presenter responds to inquiries from professional caregivers, such as what is the best way to support families who are in “disagreement” in order to best support the patient. The answers provide clarification and a prayer for caregivers in their own coping and the coping of their loved ones.

The nature of caregiving calls for us to also understand the nature of coping. In this prayer for caregivers, the presenter describes the challenges of caregiver coping and religious coping, as well opportunities for growth as caregivers.  

This video provides a series of answers to questions that develop as people care for others at home or in a health care facility. Serving as a prayer for caregivers, this video explores areas such as what advice can one give to support families who are in “disagreement” in order to best support the patient? And, when someone “loses faith,” how important is it to force the faith issue?

Diabetes in the elderly affects much more than blood glucose levels. In elderly patients, the disease can accelerate other common conditions among seniors and markedly complicate the management of those conditions. This video explains how the care of aging patients with diabetes should be individualized, taking into account comorbidities, other medications, cognitive abilities, home care situation, and life expectancy.

Caregivers and loved ones making decisions about health care often have questions about the economy, healthcare reform, and its effect on senior healthcare. This video outlines the key financial issues of healthcare reform, which is projected to cost $1.2 trillion over the next 10 years. 

Holding reading material further away, squinting, or finding ourselves needing extra lighting: These are all behaviors we exhibit having aging eyes. In this video, Dr. Joseph Zayac provides an overview of ocular anatomy and explains the various conditions that can develop as eyes age.

Caregiving can be an experience of confusion, challenge, and mixed emotions. Based on this, an import aspect of caregiving training is addressing compassion fatigue -- the fatigue, depression, fear, and anxiety that can build up as we care for others over time. This video presents 10 commandments of caregiving that can help caregivers take care of their own mind, body, and soul as they care for their loved ones.

This long-term care education video provides an inside look at the role of each employee in long-term care facilities and shares a unique perspective about all departments, services, and care coordination that occurs in serving residents. If you think you know about all the employees who work in long-term care, you may be surprised by this presentation. 

Presenter: Maria L. Wellisch, R.N., LNFA

Fluid intake is important for people of all ages and dehydration in the elderly is especially crucial issue. When older adults become dehydrated, they may experience muscle cramps, disorientation, confusion and many other threatening healthcare conditions. If they are severely dehydrated, they may go into shock, which can be life threatening. In this video training, caregivers will learn more about the importance of hydration and strategies to increase fluid intake for yourself and the people you care for.

With 21 million cases identified each year, it is understandable to have concerns about the norovirus in seniors. Noroviris is often associated with outbreaks on cruise ships, but the most commonly reported settings of the virus are actually healthcare facilities, including nursing homes and hospitals. Prevention and control of this virus is essential for the well-being of residents and staff.  In this informative webcast you will learn the key factors about norovirus, how to identify and manage an outbreak, and tips for preventing the spread of this potentially dangerous illness.

Diabetes affects almost 26 million people in the U.S.—roughly 8 percent of the population. Based on this, caregivers of elders must understand nutrition and diabetes medications and seniors. Presented by George M. Rapier, MD, Geriatrician and the Chairman and CEO of WellMed Medical Management, this video helps caregivers make wise choices for seniors to better manage diabetes through medicine and diet. 

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
In this informative video addressing substance abuse and the elderly, Dr. Thomas Weiss explains several points including how addiction can affect people of all ages, and how few people realize the true extent of substance abuse by the elderly. He asserts that regardless of age, substance abuse must be considered a major cause of emotional and physical disability.

*To access the Spanish Subtitles – Please Click Here

Be alert and have street savvy. These are two basic tips Deputy Atherton gives when he addresses cons against the elderly and the need for older adults to avoid danger when they are involved in activities outside their homes. Deputy Atherton explains how to use an ATM machine in ways that minimize your risk and what seniors should know about traveling in cars. These practical and important tips can keep seniors from becoming victims.

Medications are expensive - the presenter Augustin C. Monetmoyor  will teach you ways to keep your costs down by using formulary tools actually provided by your insurance company, learning about actual costs of medications, how they are billed, and when and why to use generics instead of brand name medications.

The cost of prescription medications can create tremendous hardship as people age. In this video, the presenter teaches caregivers and patients how to keep RX costs down by providing several cost-saving strategies. Viewers learn how to use a formulary, price shop medications, and access available community and government resources.

People who have suffered a stroke or brain attack are more likely to have a subsequent stroke at some time in their life. However it can be prevented. In this video by the National Stroke Association, experts and stroke victims discuss steps against recurrent strokes including addressing health, diet, and physical activity, and how to recognize the signs of stroke if one should happen again.

Presenter: Nancy Schweers

Elder abuse is one of the fastest growing crimes of the century, and it is going to be one of the most serious problems facing the criminal justice system. This video follows real-life sheriffs and lawyers investigating and prosecuting elder abuse, and gives seniors insights on how to speak out and protect themselves because “silence isn’t golden.”

Urinary tract infections are a common issue, especially among seniors who are beginning to present with signs of dementia. In this video, urologist Dr. David Talley describes the signs, symptoms and diagnoses of urinary tract infections, with a focus on the effect of UTIs on people with dementia.

Module 2 of this series on sexuality and aging explores how memory and perception can influence the behavior of older adults and those with dementia. The video describes how older people may mistake their caregiver for a spouse, or see their caregiver as a “new love,” both resulting in inappropriate behavior. Caregivers get support for their situations and reassurance that such behavior is normal and expected.

Module 1 of this series on sexuality and aging focuses on patients with dementia. The video describes the difficult sexual behaviors that can happen when private behavior becomes public as the result of circumstances, living situations, memory and perceptual changes, and frontal lobe problems. Caregivers get support for their situations and reassurance that such behavior is normal and expected.

Older adults are often targeted when they are shopping, walking and doing other things as part of their daily lives in public areas. In this video, Deputy Atherton outlines how seniors can take steps to protect themselves. He tells about your personal security circle, how best to carry your purse or wallet, and how to protect your identification cards and credit cards. Find out how to minimize your risk of becoming a victim with these tips for away-from-home safety for the elderly. 

Often free online caregiver training videos can help caregivers address a number of issues related to their patients’ health and wellbeing. This is one such video that addresses the benefits and harms of cancer screening for nursing home patients. Here, viewers can learn more about the potential pitfalls of cancer testing that can include false positives, complications, and over-diagnoses. 

The goal of recognizing changes in nursing home or long-term care facility residents is to allow staff and physicians to manage and treat those residents at the facility and avoid a transfer to a hospital or emergency room. This caregiver training video provides viewers insights into the kinds of acute changes that can occur in residents abruptly or over time, and the best plan of action to take to keep residents healthy and safe.

Presenter:  Debby Boggs, R.D.
Good nutrition in the elderly does not have to be complicated. In this video, Debby Boggs of the San Antonio Food Bank, shows how to make a nutritious and delicious veggie pasta salad with cooked whole wheat pasta filled with cheese, baby spinach loaded with fiber and Vitamin A, and two cups of any type of vegetables one has on hand. 

Caring for seniors who struggle with memory issues can be challenging. In this video, Wendy Carpenter, a nationally recognized presenter, shares her experience and vast knowledge regarding the decision to enter a memory care environment and the actual transition. Wendy’s presentations are always well received, and participants share that she is knowledgeable, humorous, and most of all -- realistic.

Quality of life is an important issue in all care settings. This video sparks a conversation about what quality of life means, elder mistreatment, neglect, pain, challenges, spirituality, and being a grandparent. It opens a dialogue among caregivers about the many and varied issues unique to the older population and the importance of increasing quality of care for seniors.

This video presents a follow-up question and answer session to Part 1 of Grief and Loss. Here, Nancy Reeves, PhD, a clinical psychologist, spiritual director, and author specializing in trauma and elderly loss and grief, responds to questions from participants. 

Every minute, about 28 people become a victim of identity theft, and many are older adults. The U.S. Department of Justice shows that identity theft now passes drug trafficking as the number one crime in the nation. Besides losing time, money, privacy, and security, identify theft victims need assistance with the emotional impact they experience and guidance in the daunting task of resolving the situation. In this video, Kate Deaver provides basic information about elderly identity theft and how seniors and their caregivers can make sure they or the ones they care for don’t become a victim.

In this video on how to prevent UTI, or urinary tract infections, Dr. Talley asserts that the solution to pollution is dilution. He encourages viewers to prevent UTIs by drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water; to not wait to empty their bladders; and to practice good hygiene and good nutrition.

Suicide and seniors is a devastating but common occurrence. It’s a delicate topic that can be difficult to address but cannot be ignored. In this video, we discuss how to recognize the warning signs of suicide in seniors and how to create an environment that promotes mental health. The video also helps caregivers understand who may be at risk within a senior community and what crisis response measures can be deployed to prevent suicide in seniors.

One of the challenges in caring for the elderly is managing the dosage and side effects of many different medications. As we increase in age, often the number of medications we take on a daily basis also increases. How do we know when we are taking too much? And how best do we keep track of everything and understand what they’re supposed to do and not do. This video answers many of the questions surrounding polypharmacy and how best to manage your own medications or the medications of someone you care for.

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when there is weakening of the ligaments and strong tissues that hold up a woman’s pelvic organs, and it can occur due to age, pregnancy and delivery, loss of estrogen, and doing activities over time such as chronic coughing, straining with bowel movements, or lifting heavy objects. This video provides more details about pelvic organ prolapse and what women should and could expect regarding the condition.

If you or someone you’re caring for suffers from or has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, maintaining or improving function is an ongoing challenge. This Parkinsons information video provides an overview of the condition and how visual and auditory cues can be as effective as medications in improving gait. Also discussed is how task-specific activities can also improve gait, as well as flexibility, function, and balance. 

In this webcast, Dr. Graham gives an overview of the management of incontinence and overactive bladder elderly people often experience. This informative presentation describes various types of incontinence, how aging can affect the urinary system, and the various treatments for managing the overactive bladder and incontinence.

In Part 2 of this refection on spirituality and aging, Chaplain Marta Peña discusses the many types of losses we may experience throughout our lives, including material loss, relationship loss, functional loss, intra-psychic loss, roll loss, systemic loss, and ambiguous loss. Reflecting on these losses increases our understanding and appreciation of who we are and why the losses happen.

In Part 1 of this reflection on spirituality and aging, Chaplain Marta Peña explores the spiritual journey that begins at birth and continues throughout our lifetime. Chaplain Peña shares perspectives of attachments and separations and how these experiences impact our spiritual development. She also guides viewers in considering how difficulties strengthen and mold us.

How do you communicate and minister to those with dementia or those who cannot verbally communicate? This video teaches caregivers how to touch the spirit of someone with dementia and learn about their own spirituality in the process. This training serves as a prayer for caregivers and is recommended for pastoral care providers, including lay ministers and volunteers, as well as family care providers.

MMLearn is a way to serve caregivers. Reaching over 98 countries with more than 100,000 views, the free online videos give families and friends the skills, techniques, and emotional strength they need to care for their loved ones. Viewers are able to access the website and get feedback and education in all areas of caregiving from dementia, to caregiver stress, to medications. 

Caregivers of the elderly often have questions as they relate to memory care. In this video, the presenter discusses issues doctors often face that surround memory care, such as the havoc wrought by managed care, the debate over “quality care” of the elderly, and whether prolonging life at any cost is wise. Probing and intelligent, this video challenges viewers to think deeply about the choices they make in the care of their elders. 

Wanting to yell “help mom has dementia” can be a common plea of people across cultures, countries, and backgrounds. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia do not discriminate and can bring equal hardship to everyone they affect. To help caregivers gain a better understanding of the effects and challenges of living with someone diagnosed with dementia, this video depicts a modern-day Latino family as they struggle with a spouse and parent affected by dementia. Seeing them in action may be familiar to what you and your family are experiencing.

In this segment, viewers learn how to meditate by “seeing” themselves in the scriptures. They read passages, and then are challenged to reconstruct scenes and take the time to imagine the dialogues and possible feelings. Called guided imagery, this form of meditation can be highly effective.

In this segment of our series on meditation and the elderly, viewers learn the benefits of coming together to study and meditate on the words and phrases of scripture. The presenter explains how doing this in a group can help achieve greater awareness of God’s love through the insights and shared experiences of others.

In segment 4 of our 6-segment series on meditation and the elderly, viewers learn how to study and meditate on the words and phrases of scripture. The presenter explains how doing this in solitude can help achieve greater awareness of God’s love and bring greater understanding for everyday life.

In this segment viewers learn how to engage in meditation to increase their awareness for God, nature, and themselves. This video shows viewers how God draws us deeper into Him through awareness of our bodies and relationships and how to find God in all things through meditation.

In segment 2 of our 6-segment series on meditation and the elderly, viewers learn how to engage in meditation and become present and attentive to focus on God’s love. Meditation is an expression of the whole person, so this video tells how to set aside time to meditate and how to create a meditation environment.

In this segment of our series on meditation and the elderly, viewers learn how meditation can lead us to a deeper awareness of ourselves, the world around us, and God’s love for us. Serving as an introduction to the series, the video explains meditation and how it gives us time to take pause and to become aware that we are already in the presence of a loving and healing God.  

As people get closer to 65, they often have questions about what is Medicare, who is eligible, and how does one enroll. In this video, Melinda Sutherland, RN, walks viewers through the Medicare program, starting with the seven-month open enrollment period. If you’re approaching 65 or taking care of someone who is, this video will be highly beneficial. 

There are a wide variety of low vision devices that can help people remain as independent as possible after they have been diagnosed with low vision. In this video, Melva Perez Andrews discusses when one might need or use low vision devises, and what kinds of devices are available.

Living with reduced vision can be possible with low-vision adaptions. There are techniques that can be used to make things better, brighter, and bolder; organize and simplify them; and modify environments to help compensate for reduced vision.  

For people of all ages and especially the elderly, loss and grief are holistic. They can result in suffering that is physical, mental, emotional. If not dealt with holistically, pain can be pushed inward, creating anger and bitterness. As caregivers, we must connect emotionally with the people we care for, and especially with dealing with elderly loss and grief. We must provide care that incorporates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components. Presented by a spiritual director and author who specializes in trauma, grief, and loss, this video explains how to create holistic care plans so loss and grief can be worked through, and do not become an “expensive emotion.”

As people age, they often have questions in regard to what is a living will. This video provides information about TexasLivingWills.com and how you can use it to complete your advance directives. Dr. Klugman gives a step-by-step explanation of how to use the website and advance care planning forms. He also provides some basic information about issues individuals should consider related to advance care planning. 

When people are put in a situation where they must leave the homes they know and move into a one-bedroom apartment or room in assisted living, everything takes on a new significance. There is a tremendous loss, and for many, a sense that a nursing home is the last resort. But that simply isn’t so. This video depicts “Living in a nursing home: A new beginning,” and how people in nursing homes can live productive, happy lives. 

When many people are asked about hearing aids they think of the large, beeping ones their grandparents might have worn. But nowadays hearing aids are tiny, highly effective, and barely noticeable. As a hearing aid training resource, this video describes the latest innovations in hearing aid technology, including the many accessories available to make it easy to hear in even difficult situations. 

In part three of this series on innovations in chronic pain management, the presenter describes the challenges in chronic pain management, including lifestyle and metabolic factors and poor health and chronic illness. These can result in several symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, weight gain, body aches, and anxiety.

In part two of this series on innovations in chronic pain management, the presenter describes various pain assessment tools, including visual analogue scales. These can include the descriptive scale, Wong-Baker Faces scale, numeric scale, and pain thermometer in the elderly.

In part one of this series on innovations in chronic pain management, the presenter describes national guidelines and defines the pharmacological basis of opiates used in pain management. This comprehensive summary helps caregivers become more informed about sources of pain and the options available to help manage it.

Many people with diabetes purchase a blood sugar monitor and immediately start using it without learning about its functions. Very often people don’t read the instructional booklet, and some even discard it entirely. By watching this video about the use, care, and capabilities of a blood sugar monitor, elderly people, people with diabetes, and their relatives will be able to get more out of their monitor for better readings and better health.

No matter how hold you are, sleeping is essential for health and well-being, and the importance of sleep for the elderly cannot be overlooked. This engaging presentation addresses many of the issues regarding falls and Alzheimer's disease as they relate to sleep. Caregivers of family members or patients with Alzheimer's disease will benefit from the video’s suggestions and interventions when caring for those with sleep disturbances.

Identity theft is an increasing problem in the United States, and older adults are often targeted. In this video, Deputy Atherton explains what elderly identity theft is and how you can prevent it. His tips include: Protect yourself. Don’t wait for your identification and financial information to be stolen. Shred. Ask questions, and keep your personal information secure. Ideal for seniors and caregivers of seniors, this video helps prevent elderly identity theft.

Help! Mom has dementia! Living with dementia can be a challenge for people with dementia, as well as people who are caring for them, whether they are direct care health providers or family members. Caregiving can present an emotional, physical, and – for family caregivers -- financial stress. It is not unusual for caregivers to experience frustration, anger, guilt, isolation, and exhaustion. In this video, Maria Wellisch presents caregivers with practical information and solutions to living with and taking care of someone with dementia. It’s a video every caregiver should watch.

If you need a hearing aid or care for someone who’s been prescribed one, it’s important to know how to choose a hearing aid. After that, with wax and build-up, it’s also important to know how to clean and care for a hearing aid. This 10-minute video by audiologist Jane Watson tells users and caregivers what they need to know about selecting, cleaning, and more. 

There is often no end of life care training. For some, terminal illness provides a transformational time of increased self-awareness around spiritual or faith-based questions. But it also raises practical considerations such as how to talk to children, the impact of dementia, how to make informed choices about end-of-life care, and how to care for the caregivers. This exceptional video offers insight on 31 topics that arise frequently during the transition process -- the time between making a decision to stop medical treatment and when death actually occurs.

The move to a hospice environment can be difficult for both patients and caregivers. This presentation takes a look at what you can expect from hospice in the home, a skilled nursing facility, inpatient hospice unit, and even assisted living. The presenters offer caregivers and healthcare professionals a unique look into hospice and share some of the most commonly misunderstood facts provided by this service.

In this final video of the three-part series on home safety for the elderly with dementia, the presenters discuss bedrooms and bathrooms. They show how medicine bottles, cords, heaters, and fans can all create problems for seniors’ perception, balance, and mobility, and what caregivers can do to address these concerns.  

In this second video of the three-part series on home safety for the elderly with dementia, the presenters discuss living areas and entrance areas. They show how shadows, lighting, and furniture design and placement can all create problems for seniors’ perception, balance, and mobility, and what caregivers can do to address these concerns. 

It is common for people to want to keep their loved ones in their homes as long as possible as they age, even if they have Alzheimer’s or dementia. This first video in a three-part series helps viewers make their homes as safe as possible, addressing the three major areas that affect home safety for the elderly: mobility, perception, and cognition.

For adult children who have not visited “home” in many years, a trip back to see their aging parents can be difficult. This video provides helpful insights for siblings and aging parents for visits during the holidays and year-round. It helps adult children learn to keep an open mind and not be critical, while looking for important clues about their parents’ appearance and lifestyle that indicate whether they need additional care or support.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
Elderly people who hoard may have a history of hoarding throughout their lives, or they may have begun hoarding as they’ve gotten older. In either case, hoarding can be a serious problem that impairs mobility, increases fall risk, and interferes with cooking, cleaning, showering, and sleeping. In this video, Dr. Weiss, a geriatric psychiatrist, provides an overview of hoarding and the elderly, discussing causes, signs to watch for, and treatment options.

MyPyramid provides a guideline for ensuring overall health and quality nutrition in the elderly. By watching this video, caregivers and seniors will become familiar with the themes presented in “Healthier Communities with MyPyramid,” including the basic food groups, physical activity, and the key messages of variety, balance, and the importance of fiber. Participants will understand how following the recommendations of MyPyramid is important for staying healthy.

The frail elderly are functionally dependent on others and have multiple chronic diseases, disabilities, or other impairments. These limitations can complicate routine dental care and hygiene, and add to the common concern of how to get elderly to brush. This video explains how increased medical problems and decreased abilities to tolerate dental care can affect the health of seniors.

This video on family dynamics for caregivers provides a brief overview of families from a systems perspective, showing how roles in a family system, communication patterns, and shifts in family composition impact responses. Families are fluid, adaptive units, and this video helps family members better understand family dynamics so they can provide more understanding care for their loved ones.

As parents age, their adult children sometimes move from their role as children to a new role as caregiver. As a result, adult children often find themselves in need of long-term care education. Caring for a parent can be one of the most difficult transitions we face in our adult years. Here we will discuss the types and levels of care to help adult children as they face important decisions about the appropriate care for their parent.

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries of older adults in the United States? And every 35 minutes an older adult in our country dies from a fall. In this video, “Falls –A New Look at a Difficult Problem,” the presenter gives insights about how to prevent falls, what to do when a fall occurs, and how to create a safe environment for residents and staff.

As we age, falls and fear of falling takes on greater meaning and importance. In this three-part series on fall prevention for the elderly, we discuss different aspects of falling, and the implications it can have on long-term health and wellbeing. This third and final video covers simple home modifications you can make to help you or your loved one avoid being the victim of a fall.

As we age, falls and fear of falling takes on greater meaning and importance. In this three-part series on fall prevention for the elderly, we discuss different aspects of falling, and the implications it can have on long-term health and wellbeing. This second video covers common environmental fall risks in and around the home. 

Most of us will never be part of an ethics committee, but many of us deal with ethics in the elderly every day. Health care providers, family members, and guardians often need support in addressing ethical issues inherent in the aging process, including consequences of driving, sex, and gambling. This video explores case studies dealing with ethical issues faced in nursing homes and in private facilities. We address the many ethical, legal, and financial issues that continue to arise as our population ages.

If you’re caring for an elderly person who gets sick or injured, you can go to the urgent care or ER. The number of urgent care centers in both urban and rural areas in the U.S. is growing rapidly. These centers are filling a gap caused by the shortage of primary care doctors and long waits people experience at their doctor’s offices and in ERs. Urgent care centers are not for life-threatening conditions, but they certainly fill an important role in our current medical care environment. This video helps seniors determine when to go to the urgent care or ER, what they offer, and why not all urgent care facilities are the same. 

Admitting a loved one to hospice can be one of the most challenging experiences a family goes through. With no end of life care training, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious about this important transition. In the third and final video in this three-part series, Dr. Justo Cisneros, the medical director at Hospice Inspiris, explains the mission and practices of hospice and helps families, caregivers, and patients understand what they can expect during the hospice experience.

Admitting a loved one to hospice can be one of the most challenging experiences a family goes through. With no end of life care training, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious about this important transition. In the second video in this three-part series, Dr. Justo Cisneros, the medical director at Hospice Inspiris, explains the mission and practices of hospice and helps families, caregivers, and patients understand what they can expect during the hospice experience.

Admitting a loved one to hospice can be one of the most challenging experiences a family goes through. With no end of life care training, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious about this important transition. In the first video in this three-part series, Dr. Justo Cisneros, the medical director at Hospice Inspiris, explains the mission and practices of hospice and helps families, caregivers, and patients understand what they can expect during the hospice experience.

When a person begins to lose a part of their vision there are many physical as well as emotional issues they experience. In this video, Dr. Sandra Fox discusses the stages of grief and the emotional aspects of vision loss. In addition, she provides helpful information about what families and caregivers can do to help patients and ease in the vision loss transition and rehabilitation.

Older adults are often victims of cons against the elderly and they are often targeted by experienced con artists. In this video, Deputy Atherton reviews how cons happen and what older adults can do to avoid them. He talks about actual scams in San Antonio and Bexar County and how a con artist gains the trust of seniors to get important identity and financial information. Learn about the bump and stop, lottery ticket scams, and false home repair scams. This video gives important tips to prevent cons against the elderly.

As caregivers, getting the most out of an elderly doctor appointment is very important. This video helps us examine the approach to our appointment. We all want our doctors to be attentive and good listeners and, by all means, have a “good bedside manner.” Yet, we need to question what we are doing to make the best of the precious office time. With this video, caregivers and patients can learn how to utilize face-to-face time with their doctors more efficiently. 

During an elderly doctor appointment, the communication gap can be the most serious and significant stumbling block to a healing relationship between doctor and patient -- 75% of diagnosis rests on the history you give the doctor. Because appointments with doctors can often seem rushed or confusing, a doctor's perspective on how to get the most out of each visit with your physician can help. This video explains what information to convey and the questions to ask to break the communication gap and ensure the best health and care for the senior in your life. 

It’s ambitious to think that people who have struggled with hearing can instantly adapt to a new hearing aid. Often a degree of hearing aid training and some answers to common questions are needed for people to understand how a hearing aid works and how best to get used to it. In this video, audiologist Dr. Jane Watson covers the latest about hearing aids, questions to ask before purchasing, new technologies, and the reasons hearing aids are so expensive. All hearing aids are not the same, and this video can provide a solid foundation worth hearing.

In this introduction, Dr. Beth Goethe and Dr. Martha E. Leatherman help caregivers address the common question of “How do I get rid of caregiver stress?” Together, they explain what caregiver stress is, how to identify it, and how to manage it. They provide specific ways to alleviate the guilt and anxiety that can make stress worse and to slow down and find time for you.

Some people with Type 2 Diabetes can control their blood sugar with a healthy meal plan and regular exercise. But sometimes, medications are required as well. This video on diabetes medications and seniors describes the importance of taking medications as prescribed, in addition to healthy eating and exercising, in managing diabetes.

This video presents a discussion about depression in the elderly, telling viewers screening questions for depression and the signs to watch for, including depressed mood, sleep changes, loss of interest, guilt, decreased energy, decreased concentration, and appetite changes. The video also reviews how depression in the elderly is diagnosed, its causes, outcomes, and treatments.

We only get one set of teeth, so caring for them properly throughout your life is essential. This video discusses senior dental care and the importance of oral hygiene in the elderly. Presented by University of Texas dental hygiene students, the presentation will help caregivers recognize the appearance of the normal oral cavity, along with signs of oral cancer and abnormalities that may need a doctor’s referral. Caregivers will also learn how to approach uncooperative patients and help them be more receptive to senior dental care.

This video discusses an important aspect of elderly care and managing a patient’s dementia: Determining decision-making capacity. This capacity is based on one’s physical and mental ability to provide food, clothing, and shelter; attend to physical needs; and manage finances. By watching this video, viewers learn how self-assessment, proxy reports, evaluating performance, and direct observation can help measure a loved one’s capacity and determine best options for their care. 

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
Caring for and even visiting someone with dementia can generate many questions about what to do and how to act. In this video, the presenter gives a complete overview of dementia, detailing its history, definition, genetics and risk factors. The presenter also discusses evaluation, current and future treatments, and the support that caregivers themselves need when caring for someone with dementia.

A challenging yet common aspect of caregiving is handling delirium in elders. Delirium is a quick change in an older adult’s mental state, causing them to experience changes in alertness, perceptions, and sleep patterns. Their speech may become incoherent and or they find themselves disoriented to time and place. Delirium can be confused with other mental states associated with aging. To clear up confusion, in this video Dr. Lichtenstein explains delirium in elders, helping caregivers understand the condition, its possible causes, and best responses.

The Jewish faith brings many customs, foods, and rituals that are important to keep in mind when giving care. This series of videos provides cultural sensitivity training for caregivers of Jewish seniors. The introduction briefly describes the four modules in the series, which include an overview of Judaism, Jewish holy days and celebrations, death and dying traditions in Judaism, and how to use what we’ve shared to care for Jewish seniors. The series ends with a final video for questions and answers. 

Presenter: Dr. David Smith
Constipation and the elderly: It’s a topic that Dr. Oz and even Oprah have tackled. Here, Dr. Smith discusses constipation in older adults and what’s important to understand about caring for people with constipation. This is a presentation that every family member and nurse will want to watch. Learn about the general causes, drug causes, and psychiatric/psychological causes of constipation, along with the classifications of constipation, risk factors, and conditions that affect it. Dr. Smith also reviews treatments to help people handle this uncomfortable condition.

Part 2 of this two-part series on pastoral care explores the origins of the term “pastor,” as being a shepherd who cares for a flock. Providing a prayer for caregivers, the presenter talks about the calming presence of pastors as they provide care, which is the cure of the soul. Viewers reflect on the pastoral care language and how it can help people feel cared for and nurtured.

In this video, the presenter the Rev. Dr. Helen Appelberg reaches out to communities and welcomes both seniors and caregivers challenged by physical concerns and other health issues. Highlighting “The Servant Song,” this prayer for caregivers reminds us that we are here to help each other walk the mile and bear the load.

As they age, it is common for older adults to stop maintaining daily oral care. In addition, many seniors suffer dry mouth due to medications, collect bacteria, and have chronic inflammation of their teeth. On top of this there are often contributing factors of soft-food, high-carb diets, along with aging fillings, crowns, and root canals. In this video, Dr. Dirks describes geriatric dentistry, basic oral care techniques, and some basic tips for how to get elderly to brush.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
Caring for someone who is sometimes hateful or difficult is a common situation. Oftentimes, the person being care for may have issues related to frustration, anger, confusion, pain, fear, or even medications. Whether you are a professional caregiver or caring for a loved one, this situation is unrewarding and can take a toll on your own health and wellbeing. Here, Dr. Weiss explains what’s involved in caring for the hateful patient while providing appropriate and compassionate care.

Latinos are the largest ethnic minority and the fastest growing elderly group. In providing caregiver training online regarding care for Latinos, the presenter shares her findings of how Latinos perceive the caregiving experience, including how it has consequences, fulfills a duty, and is satisfying. 

When you’re caring for a loved one who must spend a significant amount of time in bed, a common concern is the development of pressure ulcers. Through the full demonstrations in this video, caregivers learn what pressure ulcers are, why positioning is so important, and how often – and when – is best to reposition loved ones to avoid pressure ulcers. 

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and exhausting, and caregivers often have several questions. One question that regularly comes up is how to change a bed with someone in it. This video provides helpful information and demonstrates the best way to replace bedding while keeping your loved one comfortable and safe.

Caregivers, whether they work in a private setting or at a heath care facility or nursing home, can experience caregiver stress or compassion fatigue. In this third and last part of our three-module series, we provide an overview of the condition, including how it affects the body, and we answer the important question: “What do I do to get rid of caregiver stress?” 

Caregivers, whether they work in a private setting or at a heath care facility or nursing home, can experience caregiver stress or compassion fatigue. In this second part of our three-module series, we provide an overview of the condition, including how it affects the body, and we answer the important question: “What do I do to get rid of caregiver stress?” 

Caregivers, whether they work in a private setting or at a heath care facility or nursing home, can experience caregiver stress or compassion fatigue. In this first part of our three-module series, we provide an overview of the condition, including how it affects the body, and we answer the important question: “What do I do to get rid of caregiver stress?” 

A caregiver of a patient with Alzheimer’s is defined as someone who provides care four hours a day, five days a week, for six months in a row. In this video, the presenter surmises that most caregivers spend much more time than this providing care. As a result, they can be susceptible to a multitude of emotions, including caregiver stress. Starting with the definition of stress, this video describes its causes and symptoms and answers the question, “What do I do to get rid of caregiver stress?”

Caregiver stress is the all-too-common outcome of caring for a person with dementia. The challenges of caring for someone on top of other responsibilities can feel overwhelming. In the long run, allowing caregiver stress to build up will hurt physically and emotionally. In this video, Dr. Oakes provides guidance for answering the important question, “What do I do to get rid of caregiver stress?” 

Brain fitness is similar to physical fitness. Just as physical activity can improve physical health, brain exercises can improve cognitive ability and prevent the decline in cognitive health as we age. Brain fitness is defined as the brain’s ability to perform at normal or above normal levels. This video provides an overview of the latest research in cognitive health in older adults and provides insights on how to keep the brain engaged as we age and encourage the all important brain plasticity.

Presenter: Dr. Thomas Weiss
If you’re taking care of someone with dementia, you know there are issues regarding behavior that can be challenging to understand and manage. In this video on behavior management dementia, Dr. Weiss walks viewers through the care and management of patients with dementia, helping caregivers understand the symptoms, epidemiology, and assessments involved. The video also offers strategies and therapies, both non-pharmacologic and pharmacotherapy, for managing the complex behaviors seen in patients with dementia.

A common reason seniors are placed in nursing homes is due to behavior or functional loss, and not memory impairment. This video helps caregivers understand the dementia behaviors and other behavioral disturbances in seniors living in long-term care facilities, including hallucinations, delusions, irritability, agitation, sleep changes, and appetite changes. Viewers will gain a greater understanding of the emotions that often drive the actions of their loved ones.

*To access the Spanish Subtitles – Please Click Here

In Module 1 of this series on dementia behaviors, viewers learn the eight possible etiologies of dementia and their masquerading conditions and the 12 most common “problem behaviors” when working with elderly residents with dementia or mental illness. This video also discusses the common identifiers of aggressive behavior and predictors of violence. 

In Module 4 of this series on dementia behaviors, viewers review a “Survival Guide” for using history forms and psychological tests with elderly residents with dementia or mental illness. The video outlines the importance of coding tests appropriately, documenting time between visits, and following up to evaluate drug titrations, efficacy, and side effects. 

In Module 3 of this series on dementia behaviors, viewers learn how dementia affects residents’ mental capacity for personal, medical, and financial decision making. Viewers learn about testamentary capacity and the capacity to stand trial. 

In Module 2 of this series on dementia behaviors, viewers learn the sources of pain perception in elderly residents with dementia or mental illness. They learn how pain, along with long-term medications and the use of restraints, can affect residents’ behavior and how caregivers can alter care to address these issues.

While there aren’t necessarily bad drugs, for elderly patients there are significant risks. Medication errors and drug toxicity occur regularly in up to 59% of hospitalized patients. In addition 31% of all hospital admissions in the elderly are the result of adverse drug affects. Drug toxicity is the 4th leading cause of death ahead of pulmonary disease, motor vehicle accidents, and AIDS. This video can help caregivers and patients be safe when it comes to “bad drugs,” medication errors, and drug toxicity. 

Presenter: Dr. Lyssa Ochoa
Strokes affect almost 800,000 people every year, but the good news is that 80% of strokes can be prevented. In this video Dr. Lyssa Ochoa talks all about strokes, including what they are, what causes them, and how to recognize them. She also reviews risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, and how to reduce your risk of stroke. All About Strokes is an informative and helpful video for people of all ages, including seniors and caregivers.

Oftentimes, in the process of aging, encouragement is needed to feel our best. In this inspirational video, seniors share their favorite things about aging, including the freedom to volunteer, make choices, and be happy about those choices. 

As people age, mobility becomes a concern. This video provides an overview of assistive devices so seniors and their caregivers can use them with greater confidence. Types of devices, gait belts, adjustments, and safety during transfer are addressed, along with corrections for many of the common mistakes people make when using assistive devices. 

Advance care planning is one way to see that your medical and non-medical wishes are followed in case of a life-threatening or terminal disease. Advance care planning is a gift to your family. In this video, Dr. Klugman provides an overview of advance directives including directives to physicians and family members, medical powers of attorney, out-of-hospital do-not-resuscitate orders, and directives for mental health treatment. Additionally, Dr. Klugman provides information about ethical wills, organ and body donation choices, a letter to family and friends, funeral arrangements and a last will and testament. 

Older adults become more susceptible to serious diseases as they age. Based on this, immunizations are an important consideration for older adults and their caregivers. Some adults have never been vaccinated for vaccine preventable diseases, or if they have, the immunizations have faded over the years. Some vaccines were simply not available in the past. In this video, the San Antonio Metropolitan Health Department gives seniors and caregivers information about adult immunizations and vaccine preventable diseases.

Acure Care for Elders Units, known as ACE units, are uniquely designed to meet the specific needs of older adults with trained staff and special floors, lighting and furniture. These factors dramatically improve health outcomes and decrease hospital-related complications for our older adults. In this video, Dr. Parker and Dr. Suh, both geriatricians, present what to expect when loved ones are admitted to ACE Units, the advantages of ACE Units, and the importance of ACE units in meeting the needs of this special population. 

Dementia takes various forms in patients, and each form has different psychological patterns of loss, hallmark features, diagnosis, and treatments. In this video, Dr. Jason Schillerstrom explains the differences in dementia syndromes, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia.

 Presenter: Dr. Jason Schillerstrom

The 2009 Spirituality and Aging Conference is designed for social workers, pastoral care providers, lay ministers, healthcare providers and family caregivers. The topics are: Basics of Dementia: Anger, Loss and Grief of Caregiving; The Silent Partner: Family Caregivers; Finding Meaning in Caregiving; and the 10 Commandments of Caregiving. Attendees who know first-hand what it is like to accompanying someone they love as they experience a fading of memory will value this special conference.

Help mom has dementia! When you’re caring for someone whose memory is not what it used to be, it can be challenging and overwhelming, making you want to call out for help. This informational session explains what a person with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia is going through. You’ll learn how to reduce frustration by learning “the language” of Alzheimer’s and you’ll help the person you’re caring for preserve independence through simple, meaningful activities.

When caring for someone elderly, understanding and managing their medications is crucial to their well-being - because often medications and seniors don’t mix. It is crucial to be aware of both the dosages, side effects, drug interactions, high risk drugs for seniors, potential complications with certain medications, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter drugs. Here, Carrie Allen, a specialist in geriatric pharmacy, helps caregivers understand polypharmacy and health to manage medications for seniors safely and with confidence.

This video explores one family’s interaction as they figure out life support and end- of-life decisions regarding a loved one. The family is torn apart become no one knew what the patient wanted. The video explains how advance directives can eliminate this pain and confusion, as a “gift to your family.” The presenter states that the time to establish advance directives is when you are healthy and competent, not when you are being wheeled into the ER.