Dementia and People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)

Health and Wellness

What is Dementia? Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. Although it is well known that older people are at higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, it is less well known that individuals with intellectual disabilities, especially Down syndrome, are also at high risk of the disease, and research shows that people with IDD have a prevalence of dementia. What are some signs of Dementia? Early signs may include changes in health, and in …

Identifying Aspiration Pneumonia

Health and Wellness

Have you ever experienced a meal where something “went down the wrong pipe”? If so, you’ve experienced what’s known as aspiration. This is a fairly common occurrence that can occasionally lead to aspiration pneumonia when someone can’t cough up whatever has entered his or her airways. Pneumonia is a breathing condition in which there is inflammation (swelling) or an infection of the lungs or large airways. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when food, saliva, liquids, or vomit is breathed into the lungs or airways leading to the lungs, instead of being swallowed into the esophagus and stomach. As you can imagine, aspirating …

Alzheimer’s, IDD and Caregivers

Health and Wellness

If you find the below article useful please consider making a donation so we can create more.   November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.  Caregivers who understand the disease process of dementia or Alzheimer’s are better able to provide an environment that helps the person live as full a life as possible, while keeping the stress level at a minimum. Practical Tips Remember that everyday activities become more challenging and confusing to a person with dementia. Daily Living Maintain old routines and make bathing relaxing – not a rush! Simplify the task by assisting as much as necessary. Don’t expect participation – …

Cholesterol: The Good and The Bad

Health and Wellness

We hope this blog about cholesterol is helpful to you! Our Health Services team at The Arc of Monroe is a wealth of information. Our staff is made up of experienced professionals who primarily support people with disabilities. To learn more about who they are, visit our Health Services page. If you’re interested in working with us at The Arc of Monroe, visit our careers page. If you’d like to give and help make valuable resources like this possible, you can give online.   Your body makes all the cholesterol you need to stay healthy – yes, healthy!  We need …