University of Wisconsin–Madison

Category: Issue 16

Crafting Tools for Dementia Friendly Care and Communities

Charlie holds up a prescription bottle and looks at the pharmacist, confused. “You are not due for a refill on your metoprolol,” says the pharmacist. “I refilled this medication for you Tuesday. Remember?” “I need a refill,” Charlie responds. “The bottle is empty.” Charlie’s son asks, “Do you know where the bottle is that you …

Helping Students See the “Invisible Patient”: Family Caregivers

“If Alzheimer’s is bad, ignorance of the disease is worse,” says family caregiver and former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber. Since his wife Elaine was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s 14 years ago, Schreiber has struggled with his own ignorance. “There were moments of joy I passed up because I didn’t know about the disease. The world …

There’s No Place Like Virtual Home (for Home Care Simulations)

In the clinic, health care professionals can warn older adults about falls. During a home visit, they can point out the loose rug in the living room or the dim lighting near the stairs. Seeing the home environment first-hand allows professionals to better support older adults’ health and quality of life. “It’s really reaching people …