Tag Archives: Carol Bradley Bursack

If You Suspect Elder Abuse in a Nursing Home

Posted on by
Reply

When we place a family member in a nursing home, we, of course, expect excellent care.  We’ve done our homework and found a place that is well recommended and fits the budget.  Do we expect too much for our parent or spouse?  They can’t be first every time they want something, but they shouldn’t be neglected either.

Do we believe them when they complain?   Or do we take their complaints “with a grain of salt,” because they may be imagining situations?  Are we expecting too much from the staff?

Carol Bradley Bursack has an excellent article, based on her experience with her parents, and her research on what to do when you suspect elder abuse.  And how to be realistic in your expectations, too.

Check out: What To Do If You Suspect Abuse in Your Parent’s Retirement Home .  You may want to mention your experiences in the comments section.

Music Therapy for Alzheimer’s Patients

Posted on by
Reply

Music therapy for Alzheimer’s patients has become more and more popular.  Although my mother never played a musical instrument, except the piano a little, and wasn’t obcessive about listening to the radio, I discovered she truly enjoyed music while at the nursing home during her Alzheimer’s years.

I recall, in particular, an incident at a party where a gentleman entertained the group of residents by playing “oldie” tunes at the piano.  I was visiting Mother at the time and sat beside her.  She reached over and took my hand, then began moving it in time with the music.  She looked at me and smiled.  This lasted until he finished that song.

Often the staff would have Lawrence Welk videos playing on the television in the activity room.  Sometimes when I entered Mother’s room, there would be music on the radio or from a CD. 

Music is:

  • Calming
  • Relaxing
  • Evokes memories
  • Stimulates the mind
  • Helps with communication

For more on music therapy, check out this post on Carol Bradley Bursack’s web site:  Music Therapy Spotlighted in Feature Film.