nside Issue #3, Gele Tea raises awareness of Alzheimer's disease & dementia in minority groups, Traumatic brain injury IQ - what every parent, caregiver must know, Learn more about Hospital Wrist Band Project for hospitalized dementia patients, Autism numbers continues to increase, Impact80 Virtual Summit for Caregivers, Summary and Recap, Get a list of Brain health games to keep you and your loved ones sharp, check top Tweets of March during Brain health month, How to show gratitude & more

1. Spring 2014 - Issue No. 3
Tiffany
BrooksOn being a wife, mom,
brain injury advocate
& family caregiver
NFL style
African
Gèlè Tea
Fashion
Raising Alzheimer's
Disease + Dementia
Awareness
Depression & Car
egivers
Get C.A.R.E Tips & Help Today!
Traumatic Brain
Injury (TBI)
What Every Parent, Family, Caregiver
Need To Know
CareNovate
Magazinewww.carenovatemag.com
April is Minority Health Month #MinorityHealth.
National Health Decision Day #NHDD is April 16th.
Respite Care
ServicesBreak Time For Caregivers

2. CareNovate
Magazine
The offical publication of
CareNovate, LLC
Spring 2014,
Issue #3
www.carenovatemag.com
Dr. G. Erowele,
Editor in Chief
info@carenovate.com
Mr. K. Erowele, MBA,
Publisher
Dr. Ketra Ikezuagu,
Dr. Ojey Ikezuagu:
Medical Editor/Reviewer
Dr. Darlington Erowele
Dr U. Ojiaku:
Medical Advisors
*********************
Advertising/Partnership/
Sponsorship Inquires/
Media Kit or info@carenovate.com
Question,
Comments,
Letter to the Editor:
info@carenovate.com
Stay Empowered,
Inspired & Motivated
Editorial Office:
9119 Hwy 6, Suite 230,
Missouri City, TX 77459
832.589.007.
@Carenmag Facebook.com/carenmag
CareNovate Magazine is a
digital lifestyle & social health
publication for the modern
chief household o
fficer, the caregiver, patient care
advocate and baby boomers.
CareNovate Magazine is
published 4 times per year with
special editions by CareNovate, LLC.
Opinoins expressed in the articles or
advertisement do not necessarily
reflect the opinion of the publisher.
CareNovate Magazine is not
responsible for omissions or
information that has been
misrepresented to the magazine.
Advertisers and its agencies
assume all liability for
advertsing content.
No part of this publication
may be reproduced or
transmitted without the
permission in
writing from the publisher.
2014. Copyright.
CareNovate Magazine
On the cover, picture by Olessya. Pixabay

3. S P R I N G C O N T E N T
IN EVERY ISSUE
4. Editors Note
6. Contributors - Experts
24. Book List.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------
FEATURES
14.
Gele Tea, Fashion, Afternoon Tea, Alzheimer's &
Dementia Awareness
29.
Depression & Caregiving
37.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) IQ for families &
caregivers
42.
Hospital Wrist Band Program for Dementia
47.
Mrs. Tiffany Brooks, Family Caregiver & TBI, NFL
Style
3 Magazine/Issue #3 2014
CAREGIVING
12
Senior Care Living Series - Private Duty
20
Being the Nurse At Home: When Family Caregivers
Become Healthcare Workers
21.
Austim number surges
40.
How to show gratitude
ARTICLES
11
Respite care
18
Top Tweets on Brain Health
22
Secret life of the Brain
26
Impact80 Virtual Summary - 2014 Spring
32
Caregiving & Patient Care Resources Directory
34
Brain games

4. Follow
CareNovate
Magazine.
Click Each
Icon Below
2014 Magazine/Issue #3
ARE YOU WRITER, BLOGGER WITH A HEALTH CARE, CAREGIVING,
HEALTH INSURANCE STORY TO TELL?
Motivate. Educate. Inspire Others. Learn how you can.
>> > CLICK HERE<< <
This issue is really not just about brain health. It is not. Based on
CareNovate Magazine's editorial calender for 2014, we were
supposed to be providng YOU, our readers with fresh &
actionable tips on how to live a healthier lifestyle espcially after
the holidays.
But then, a caregiver reached out to me via Facebook. She is a
wife, mom of two, who is also a family caregiver taking care of her
Husband, a former NFL player sufering from the consequences of
traumatic brain injury (TBI.)
Days later, a girlfriend from Maryland called me. Her Dad was
recently diagnosed with Alzhiemer's. She had so many questions
about medications, side effects and more. She became a
sandwiched generation caregiver overnight.
We suddenly had to pivot our calender, the entire issue.
We trust you will find this issue very valuable, informative and
engaging. You will also find candid interviews from caregivers and
expert tips on depression, truamatic brain injury, dementia and
Alzehimer's Disease.
You've probably heard the phrase "use it or lose it." Studies have
shown that people who are more mentally active or maintain an
active cognitive lifestyle throughout their lives are at lower risk for
brain degeneration. As it turns out, maintaining a healthy heart
means a healthy brain! Reading books, taking on new tasks at work
& physical exercise are also great. We will love to hear steps you are
taking to keep your brain, body & soul healthy.
Remember to visit www.carenovatemag.com. We appreciate your
feedback, comments and suggestions.
As always, in great health & care,
Dr. Goldina Erowele,
VP/Editor-in-chief.
Email: info@carenovate.com. Twitter: carenovatemag
Facebook.com/carenmag
How do you keep
your brain healthy?

5. CareNovateCaregiver
knows when its time
to take a break from
caregiving role
****
Does not feel gulty
asking for help
::::
knows that to be the
best at his or
her role,
must seek support
////
knows that all chores
on todays to do list
does not have to be
completed today
----
remembers to
schedule
his or her annual
medical/wellness
check up on their
birthday month
(}{)
W
E
L
C
O
M
E TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR EVENT
IN A DIGITAL PUBLICATION, REACHING
WOMEN & CAREGIVERS & THOSE WHO ARE
HEALTH CONSCIOUS & ALWAYS IN SEARCH OF
HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCES & TOOLS,
PLEASE CALL 832.589.0076 OR EMAIL
INFO@CARENOVATE.COM

6. Expert Contributors...
Their Voices... THANK YOU!!!.
Dion Short
Metzger,
M.D.
Adult psychiatrist whose
approachable demeanor,
determined spirit and
caring attitude have
allowed her to have a
valuable impact on her
patients. Emory
University graduate with a
bachelor’s degree in
Psychology. Dr. Metzger
was awarded the Pfizer
Minority Medical School
Scholarship and earned
her Doctorate of Medicine
from Morehouse School
of Medicine. In addition to
obtaining her degrees, she
also completed a medical
research at Stanford
University School of
Medicine and Centers for
Disease Control (CDC)
and Prevention. She
completed a general
psychiatry residency at
Emory University School
of Medicine.
Cynthia R.
Green,
Ph.D.
President of MEMORY
ARTS LLC, founder and
lead trainer of Total Brain
Health. As a clinical
psychologist, author, and
one of America's foremost
experts on brain health,
she is also known for her
ability to make the
complex science of
memory improvement
and brain fitness
engaging, actionable for
all audiences, and fun. Dr.
Green's smart and
personable presentation
style has made her one of
the most sought-after
speakers on the topic. Her
publication "Your Best
Brain Ever "is now
available -- named a "2103
Top Guide to Life After 50"
by the Wall Street
Journal!
Leah
Korkis,
BSN, RN
Registered nurse & family
caregiver. She earned her
Bachelors of Science in
Nursing (BSN) from
Bradley University and is
currently pursuing her
Masters of Science in
Nursing as an Adult-
Geriatric Clinical Nurse
Specialist
(MSN, AG-CNS).
Leah is also the
founder of HealthyNowan
dLater.com, a forum and
website devoted to
healthy aging. She
currently resides in Los
Angeles with her husband
John and their fish Thor.
Gèlè Tea
Couture fashion show and
afternoon tea that raises
awareness of dementia,
returns for an afternoon of
gèlègance. The dynamo
team are calling it a
sentimental journey or a
trip in memories past and
present.
2014 Magazine/Issue #3, page 6

7. Another
Exciting
#carenmag issue 4
ComingSoon!
We are looking for
AWESOME, CARING, &
INSPIRING WRITER.
Join Us Here

9. According to the
Center of Disease Control (CDC),
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
is a serious public health problem
in the US.
2.5 million sustain a
TBI each year
Children aged 0 to 4 years
& older adolescents
aged 15 - 19 years are
among the groups
most likely to
sustain a TBI.
?
Remember that children
do best when parents,
educators, and health professionals
communicate, develop common
goals,
and work together.
Parents, caregivers play the most
essential role in their child’s
recovery.
?
52,000 die;
275,000 are hospitalized;
1.365 million are treated,
released from an
emergency department.
?
?
Caregiving for Someone
with a TBI:
Read about
Tiffany Brooks inspiring
story on page
P R E V E N T I O N
I S T H E K E Y
Adopt A
Seat belt.
Helmet.
Sources:
CDC, Brainline.org, Defense.org
2014 Magazine/Issue #3, Page 9

10. Fall Edition
CALL FOR SPEAKERS
Open NOW.
Click on page to apply

11. Respite Care
National & Local Support For Those Who Provides Care To
Loved OneS & Needs Relief.
Are you a family caregiver who needs a break from your caregiving role? Are
youinterested in learning more about how you can get help with your duties?
Family caregivers are often over-burdened and under-informed about some of
the available resources. Many parents of children and adults with disabilities and
caregivers for those with chronic illness, children with disabilities are at high
risk for divorce, substance abuse and child abuse because of the continuing
stress of caring for a loved one. As a caregiver, there's nothing like having access
to the best caregiving resources to support them in the caregiver role.
Respite care is an assistance program available to parents, family caregivers and
offers an opportunity for the family caregiver a break from their caregiving role.
Respite Care can be helpful to family members and their caregivers.
More importantly, it serves as a prevention program aimed at stopping some of
the social problems that can result from the tremendous demands made on
families due to the disabilities of their child or the institutionalization of the
family member with illness. Below are some of the services available nationally
and locally.
The ARCH (Access to Respite Care and Help) National Respite Network
connects caregivers directly to local respite and crisis care services, assists and
promotes the development of quality respite and crisis care programs, and advocates
for respite in all forums. The National Respite Locator, a service to help caregivers and
professionals locate respite services in their community.
The Take Time Texas
is a searchable database of respite providers who can care for your family member
while you take a break. Take Time Texas was created by the Texas Respite Coalition,
the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services and Texas Respite
Coordination Center.
EasterSeals
Nationally, Easter Seals is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals
with autism, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities and other special needs.
Easter Seals Greater Houston has been offering help, hope and answers to people of
all ages with disabilities and their families.
Department of Veterans Affairs Respite Program
This program is available to the Veterans. They can receive care in an inpatient,
outpatient or home setting. Care is for Veterans who need skilled services, case
management, and assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing or getting
dressed) or instrumental activities of daily living (e.g., fixing meals and taking
medicines); are isolated or their caregiver is experiencing burden.
2014 Magazine/Issue #3, Page 11

14. 6 Magazine/Issue #2
2014 Magazine/Issue #3, Page 14

15. 2 Magazine/January, 2012
The event is all about fashion, afternoon tea + awareness.
It is about educating women, men, designers and models
about Alzheimer's disease & dementia.
Gèlè Tea is a couture fashion event that
showcases African fashion.
The use of Gèlè is symbolic as dementia is
about the brain/mind and
Gèlè Tea draws attention to the head.
During the events, attendees will have the opportunity
to have a gèlè tied for them. During some of the events, ladies
are urged to wear a Gèlè, hat or another form of
headwear while men are asked to wear hats.
So excited I got to chat with them and learm
more about the amazing work they are are doing...
Lights, Camera,
Gèlè Tea
Raising Awareness:
Alzheimers Disease & Dementia,
1 afternoon tea at a time
By Goldina Erowele
Credits: Butterfly Estelle - the look that went global. Model Estelle Didigiri wears the Gelina blouse by Clariscia Gill and butterfly gele,
Images - Cherish collection by Yemi Osunkoya, Pink hat by Lyze Hatsm, Model Maria wears Adebayo Jones Luxury

16. Magazine/ 2014 Spring 16
CNM: Gèlè Tea - sounds like a
social event, what is it about?
GT: Gèlè Tea is partly social as it is an up
close and personal couture fashion show
with afternoon tea and music.
Its focus is on dementia and memory loss
with talks from professionals and people
with a link to dementia. It is themed to
make it interesting so that people do not
feel
they are in a classroom or being
dictated to. People attend for a
variety of reasons: interest in couture
fashion; appreciationof the gèlè;
love of afternoon tea; and/or wanting to
know about dementia. Some talk about
their association or experience with it for
the first time. Everyone leaves
learning something new or with the
inspiration to do something.
They often go humming the chorus of
‘Memories – the gèlè song’ by singer
songwriter Lánre.
CNM: Mixing fashion with
raising awareness - dementia &
Alzheimer's disease. What
inspired you to start this?
GT: Three things: a quest to keep
memories alive and give voice to people
who may feel excluded; a desire to
remember favourite people by
highlighting things they liked –
fashion, tea, sandwiches, cake; and a
preoccupation with dress and dementia.
It’s a beautiful event on many
levels and a question asked is
what does dementia look like?
CNM: Can you please tell us what Gèlè is?
GT: A gèlè is the Yoruba word for a "headtie" or a headwrap. Although headties and
headwraps (scarves among them) are universal forms of headwear, gèlès (as a style)
are unique to the Yorubas of western Nigeria and they have become artistically
structural creations that are gaining global attention. We call it Gèlèpoque – new dawn
for gèlè. Beyonce did a shoot wearing a variety of them.
CNM: Why dementia?
GT Estimates that 44.4m people worldwide are
living with dementia and predictions it could
increase to 135.5million by 2050.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests
the number of new dementia cases is almost 7.7
million a year implying one new case of
dementia is diagnosed every four seconds.
However, like many people who feel committed
to a cause, Gèlè Tea arose by association. We are
keen to raise awareness among black and
minority groups who may feel invisible.
Although there is great work going on, the needs
of some groups remain hidden for reasons that
can include stigma, discrimination, myths,
language barriers and a notion that
services are not inclusive.

17. CNM: Any upcoming news or
projects?
GT: We have established an on going
Twitter project called #wish4dem
(@wish4dem) where we are asking
people to make a wish about dementia.
We are working on a conference for 2014 and
aim to run some virtual workshops.
We also want to tap into our writing,
facilitation and knowledge of care issues having
been successful at local
government and third sector levels.
We know that dementia does not
discriminate and our aim is to take an
all-inclusive approach.
We are having impact.
Gèlè Tea has become a catalyst for
similar events and we have received
media attention including BBC Africa.
)()()()()()()()(
CNM: Does use of the word Gèlè limit
you?
GT: Hopefully not. Our audience is multicultural.
We could have called it scarf tea - a “family
member” would tie a Grace Kelly/Audrey
Hepburn style each time she went out, but the
gèlè has a rich history and it intrigues. Scarves
have a role
as do hats with creations by award winning
milliner Lyze Hats. Headwear at Gèlè Tea is
symbolic as it draws attention to the head and
top gèlè stylists including Lara Extravaganza,
Juliet Onyeka, and Houston’s Mary Onime push
boundaries. Matched with designs from award
winning international couture designers Adebayo
Jones, Kosibah and Clariscia Gill, it is a unique
event.
CNM: Dementia chat you coordinate
via Twitter is growing in popularity.
Tell us more about that?
GT: DiverseAlz is a fortnightly tweet chat that
focuses on different issues around dementia
using an inclusive approach. We have covered
the gypsy/Romany community, children, world
music, dementia and deafness and fashion. Our
recent chat covered dance and we asked
participants to suggest fusion dances. We had
breaktwerking, Japanese-Scottish country
dancing and a gumboot jig.

18. Top
10Tweets
on
#Brain
Health
1.
Laughing and having fun is an important part of
#brainhealth - whew! A reason to have fun :) #AIA14
Amy Goyer ?@AmyGoyer
2.
As Brain Awareness Week starts winding down, would
like to highlight/celebrate work of @WarachalEFaison.
#brainhealth #diversealz Diverse Alzheim
eAlz
3.
You don't need to be a triathlete! 10 minutes of quiet
meditation once a week is great for #BrainHealth! Set
your brain fitness goals
Alzheimer Society PE ?@AlzheimerPEI
4.
This study is crazy interesting! How Fat May Hurt the
Brain, and How Exercise May Help
http://nyti.ms/1f59Vs3 #health #brainhealth
@nytimes
Olivia Janisch ?@OliviaJanisch
5.
Reading a book can take you on an adventure, but it can
also exercise your brain! #brainhealth
Sandra A Fryhofer MD ?@DrSandyYHM
6.
What's in your book bag? Reading does more than
improve spelling and vocab. It keeps your brain
healthy!
American Brain Fdn. ?@ABFbrain
7.
@DrNuss says reduce stress, enhance brain resiliency,
do yoga, meditation, pay attention to nutrition - imp
aspects of #brainhealth #AIA14
8.
There are three main components of #brainhealth:
diet, exercise, and sleep. http://bit.ly/1lVLl6p
#eldercare. TLCYourWayHomeCare ?@TLC
9.
@DrNuss says the education system needs to change to
address #brainhealth - teachers know very little abt the
brain.
10.
Deep breathing slows the heart rate, relaxes the body,
focuses the mind. ClarityHealthCare ?@Cla
18 Magazine/Spring 2014

19. ----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------
mers ?@Divers
CYourWay
arityCaring
Over 35 million people worldwide are living with
Alzheimer's disease (AD) or a related disorder, and
this number is expected to exceed 115 million by
2050.
In 2010, the worldwide costs of AD and related
disorders (ADRD) were estimated at $604 billion
and these costs are expected to reach $950 billion
by 2025. These disorders thus represent a public
health and fiscal crisis that is straining
governments across the world.
On March 9, Nature Medicine published a study revealing a
newly developed blood test that identifies 10 lipids that
predicted Alzheimer's disease up to three years in advance
with over 90% accuracy. Scientists believe this to be a
promising, not to mention easy and inexpensive, blood test.
QUESTION:
Would you want to know your
Alzheimer's disease status in advance?
Email us at info@carenovate.com & your
response could be published in our next
issue or via our blog.
All submissions becomes property of CareNovate and may be published, along with the
name of the individual in all CareNovate brand now known or hereafter developed.
Reference: World Health Organization. Dementia: a Public Health Priority (World Health
Organization, Geneva, 2012).
ALZHEIMER'S
D I S E A S E
UPDATE

20. Brain Health
Organizations
We know one thing to be true advocacy works.
We salute the work of all nonprofit organizations whose mission
is to be a voice for caregivers, patients and families. Interested in
being a part of these awesome organizations, check them out.
More at www.carenovatemag.com
Austism Speaks
Autism Speaks was founded in 2005 by Bob
and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child
with autism with the help of their longtime
friend Bernie Marcus who donated $25
million to help financially launch the
organization. Autism Speaks has grown into
the world's leading organization, dedicated
to funding research into the causes,
prevention, treatments and a cure for
autism; increasing awareness of autism
spectrum disorders; and advocating for the
needs of individuals with autism and their
families. www.autismspeaks.org
Alzheimer's Association
Alzheimer's Association is the world's
leading voluntary health organization in
Alzheimer's care, support and research.
www.alz.org
Dana Foundation & Alliance
Dana Foundation is a private philanthropic
organization that supports brain research
through grants, publications, and
educational programs.
www.dana.org
USAgainstAlzheimer’s
USAgainstAlzheimer’s is a community of
individuals who have been touched by
Alzheimer’s disease. The goal is ending
Alzheimer’s by 2020.
www.usagainstalzheimers.org
Brain Injury Association of America
Mission is to advance brain injury
prevention, research, treatment and
education and to improve the quality of life
for all individuals impacted by brain injury.
Through advocacy, we bring help, hope and
healing to millions of individuals living with
brain injury, their families and the
professionals who serve them.
www.biausa.org
National Autism Association
The mission of the National Autism
Association is to respond to the most urgent
needs of the autism community, providing
real help and hope so that all affected can
reach their full potential.
www.nationalautismassociation.org
National Alliance on Mental Illness
(NAMI)
Mental illness affects everyone. Nearly 60
million Americans experience a mental
health condition every year. Regardless of
race, age, religion or economic status,
mental illness impacts the lives of at least
one in four adults and one in 10 children
across the United States.
www.nami.org
National Center for Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The mission of the National Center for PTSD
is to advance the clinical care and social
welfare of America's Veterans and others
who have experienced trauma, or who
suffer from PTSD, through research,
education, and training in the science,
diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD and stress-
related disorders. www.ptsd.va.gov
National Institute of Neurological
Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
The mission of the National Institute of
Neurological Disorders and Stroke is to seek
fundamental knowledge about the brain
and nervous system and to use that
knowledge to reduce the burden of
neurological disease.
NINDS is part of the National Institutes of
Health (NIH).
www.ninds.nih.gov/
20 Magazine/Spring 2014

21. what does
2014: 1 in 68
&
2012: 1 in 88
mean?
autism
surges# of U.S. children with autism has surged to 1 in 68
=
30% increase since the agency estimated in 2012
that 1 in 88 suffered from the disorder.
caveats:
2014 new estimate, based on a review of records in 2010 for 8 year
olds in 11 states, also showed a marked increase in the number of children
with higher IQs who fall somewhere on the autism spectrum,
and a wide range of results depending on where a child lives.
Only 1 child in 175 was diagnosed with autism in Alabama,
while 1 in 45 was found to have the disorder in New Jersey.
current reality for families:
Autism treatment & medical expenses for children with autism are
6 times as high as those for children without the disorder.
Behavioral therapy, often delivered one-on-one, can cost as much as $60,
000 per year.
Liz Feld, president of the advocacy group Autism Speaks, in a
statement that Autism is “a pressing public health crisis that must be
prioritized at the national level. We need a comprehensive strategy that
includes the research community, policymakers, educators, and
caregivers coming together to address our community’s needs across the
lifespan.”
Source: CDC

22. 9 Magazine/Issue #2
The Secret Life of the
BrainBy Leah Korkis, RN
"I’m standing in my kitchen.
I came to get something. The question is,
what? I look around, trying to jog my
memory. My eye moves from the pantry to the
fridge. Was I hungry?
My mind is suddenly, inexplicably, blank.
I don’t want to go back into the
living room, yet I feed ridiculous
standing in the middle of the kitchen.
I SKIM THE COUNTERS.
NOTHING. NADA. ZIP.
"As a neurological nurse, I’ve encountered a great number of people who are
amidst a crisis where they’re in danger of losing their mind. Literally. Granted, we
all draw a blank from time to time, it’s those who lay in the hospital from a stroke
and those who live with some form of dementia, that wish they had paid more
attention to the health of their brain.
Meet Dr. Scott Small, neurologist and researcher at Columbia University Medical
Center. For $500 and a free gym membership, Dr. Small asks participants to do the
same routine five days a week: twenty minutes of running and twenty minutes of
sit-ups. At the end of the five-month study, most individuals lose a few pounds,
see a reduction in their body mass index, and overall feel better “emotionally,
physically, and spiritually.”

23. What about food? Sayings like “you are what
you eat” and “an apple a day…” ring in our
ears, but studies seem to come out each year
that contradict last years findings for the do’s
and don’ts of healthy eating. One message
that has come through time and time again, is
the link between high sugar, fat, and
cholesterol diets and an increased risk for
dementia.
A study in Finland found of their
1,449 participants that those with
obesity, high blood pressure or
high cholesterol,
doubled their risk. Those with all three
were six times as likely to be diagnosed with
some form of dementia.
Dr. Small also sought to find the correlation
between blood sugar level and memory. Low
and behold, the dentate gyrus made another
debut. Dr. Small found that frequent,
unregulated glucose spikes were directly
linked to lower blood flow to the dentate
gyrus.
It’s a no brainer that physical activity and
proper diet—one that leans more towards
fruits of vegetables—can help regulate sugar
levels, maintain a healthy weight, manage
blood pressure, and keep cholesterol in
check. However, a peek into the intricacies of
the brain reveals these old sayings to be so
much more.
**********
Most importantly their dentate gyrus
goes wild. Tucked in a small section of the
hippocampus, an area critical to
memory forming, storing, and organizing, the
dentate gyrus has become an all-star in the
world of neuroscience.
You see, not long before this study Dr. Small
studied the affects exercise has on the brains
of mice.
The only difference being, the mice
ran on wheels and were fed a dye that
illuminated new brain cells under a
monitoring system.
As the researchers watched the screens,
small green dots glowed brightly. These
glowing dots were seen in the mice that ran
faithfully and voluntarily on their wheel,
primarily within the dentate gyrus.
Exercise had promoted new
neurons—neurogenesis. To the
scientists, this event was a major find. Not
only did exercise increase circulation and
oxygen to the brain, but “to see those green
dots light up in the mice,” reflects Dr. Small,
“they were new brain cells that came from
exercise. It was impossible to ignore. My
colleagues started putting on their
sneakers.”
Leah Korkis is a registered nurse
and family caregiver. She earned her
Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN)
from Bradley University and is currently
pursuing her Masters of Science in
Nursing as an Adult-Geriatric Clinical
Nurse Specialist (MSN, AG-CNS).
Leah is also the founder of
HealthyNowandLater.com, a forum and
website devoted to healthy aging. She
currently resides in Los Angeles with her
husband John and their fish Thor.
She can be contacted at
Leah.Korkis@gmail.com.

24. 122 Magazine/January, 2014
National Geographic
presents a comprehensive
guide to fighting mental
decline. With cutting-edge
neuroscience, information
about Alzheimer's,
fascinating case studies, and
tips to fight brain aging
symptoms such as slower
mental acuity and "senior
moments," this smart,
engaging guide will help
keep your memory sharp and
your mind active. Leading
memory loss expert Cynthia
R. Green, PhD, and eminent
science writer Michael
Sweeney have created a
book both informational and
practical that gives readers
everything they need to
know about the care and
feeding of one of the body's
most important organs: the
brain. Book is available
through Amazon
Book List
There's nothing a great book. Here, we share 3 fantastic ones.
Hope they help as you journey in health, wellness & caregiving.
Email us the ones that made a major difference.
Email us: info@carenovate.com
Still Alice is a compelling
debut novel about a 50-year-
old woman's sudden descent
into early onset Alzheimer's
disease, written by first-time
author Lisa Genova, who
holds a Ph. D in neuroscience
from Harvard University.
Reminiscent of A Beautiful
Mind, Ordinary People and
The Curious Incident of the
Dog in the Night-time, Still
Alice packs a powerful
emotional punch and marks
the arrival of a strong new
voice in fiction. Book is
available through Amazon
A MUST READ FOR KIDS!! Max
Wallack is a 17 year old junior at
Boston University, as well as a
researcher in the Molecular
Psychiatry in Aging Laboratory at
Boston University School of
Medicine.
Max was a caregiver to his great
grandmother who had
Alzheimer’s Disease, and, in
2008, he founded
www.PuzzlesToRemember.org, a
501c3 organization that has
supplied over 23,000 puzzles to
Alzheimer’s facilities around the
world. Carolyn Smith Given is a
mother of four, a caregiver, and a
resident of the Blackstone Valley
in Massachusetts. She enjoys any
and all writing projects that
come her way. Book is available
through Amazon

25. ExpandYourReach.
AdvertiseYourBrand,
Business, Event
CareNovate Magazine
NowBookingAdsfor2014
info@carenovate.com
MediaKit

26. Impact80
Virtual
Summit
Recap
By Gèlè Tea
On Febryary 11th,
a panel of
health care expert,
speakers, many caregivers,
provided advice, tips and
insights
into the challenges
and rewards of
caregiving during
last month’s
Impact80 Virtual
Summit
for Caregivers & Patients
Care Providers.
Burn Bright Lifeworks founder
Ozioma Egwuonwu inspired with
her talk on how to keep dreams alive
while taking care of others,
based on her caregiving
experiences with her mom + cancer.
Denise M Brown of
Caregiving.Com created a
toolkit of coping strategies to
help caregivers on their
caregiving journeys.
Patient engagement was key for
author & patient care advocate
Martine Ehrenclou who delivered a
masterclass in how to take charge
of one’s healthcare and become a
patient advocate.
Nurse and journalist Barbara
Ficarra of Healthin30.com showed
how social media is changing
healthcare (#HCSM), highlighting
the usefulness of online
communities for support and
information.
In a strong segment, clinical
pharmacist, creator of Impact80
Summit, founder & CareNovate
Magazine editor-in-chief, Goldie
Erowele gave valuable tips on
medications safety (#MEDSAFETY)
& ways to save money on
medications especially if on a low
income.
Real Women on Health founder
Kelley Connors spoke on end of life
(#EOL) encouraging people to start
the conversation and mentioning
her own positive experience.
Impact80 Virtual Summit returns
this Fall. Learn how you can be a
part of this empowering and
supportive event for caregivers at
WWW.IMPACT80SUMMIT.COM
@impact80summit
#impact80

27. Start talking. Have a
kitchen table
conversation about
end of Life
care planning
Kelley Connors
KC Health
26 Magazine/Issue #3 2014
New to caregiving?
You need these
10 items in your
caregiving
tool box
Denise Brown
Caregiving.com
SEEK
CAREGIVING SUPPORT
VIA SOCIAL MEDIA,
TWITTER, EXPERTS
*********************
Barbara Ficarra
Healthin30.com
Be Your Health
Advocate. Be one for
your loved ones. Ask
questions. Ask for
medical records.
Caregiver's
Engagement.
Martine Ehrenclou, M.A.
martineehrenclou.com Medication Safety
Ask Your Pharmacist
Don't Guess
Resources available to
save on costly
medications
Goldina Erowele,
PharmD
Impact80summit.com
CareNovateMag.com
Get the
Heart Warming
4 Bs of Caregiving
Ozioma Egwuonwu
BurnBright
LifeWorks

28. MI
SS
ED
?
Click
Here
To Join
The
SummitWHAT THEY ARE
SAYING ABOUT
#Impact80

29. Dr Metzger has a passion for assisting those who
suffer from mental illness while trying to dispel the
stigma attached to such labels. She believes that
education is the most powerful tool at her disposal
to make that possible.
Dr. Metzger emphasizes the importance of the
recognition of psychiatric disorders among patients
and their families as well as obtaining treatment for
those disorders. Her mission is to provide hope and
encouragement to both those suffering from
psychiatric disorders and those who care for
them—families and health professionals alike. She is
available for workshops, interviews, presentations,
and media appearances. She is also available for
professional consultation in regards to psychiatric
treatment.
www.dionmetzgermd.com
Depression
+
Caregiving
Caregiving Got You Feeling Blue?
Learn the facts, symptoms & get help.
Get C.A.R.E
By Dr Dion Metzger

30. 35 Magazine/2013 Issue #2
Your role as a caregiver is a vital
24/7 job and like any demanding job, it
can take its mental toll. You can spend
so much time focused on helping your
loved one that little time is left for you.
Feelings of being overwhelmed,
sometimes with no social outlet, can
lead to feelings of sadness.
Depression in caregivers exists and it’s
not uncommon. This is why it’s so
important that as caregivers, self-care
is also placed on the top of your to-do
list. With an improved mood, you will
not only have a better quality of life
but will also be a better caregiver.
Let’s discuss the facts of what the
symptoms of depression are, how
common it is and what you can do to
treat it.
FACTS
-Symptoms of depression include
feelings of hopelessness, little interest
in doing things that you used to find
fun, low energy, poor sleep, changes in
appetite and problems concentrating.
In severe cases of depression, there can
be suicidal thoughts
-It is estimated that up to 1 in 3
caregivers suffer with symptoms of
depression. It is more common in
caregivers who care for patients with
dementia then compared to other
chronic illnesses¹
-Depression in caregivers is a leading
cause of premature end of home care
Tips on how to
cope
-Call someone. Seek support from
family, friends or fellow caregivers who
may share the same feelings. If no one
is available, join an online support
group or find a caregiver group that
meets in your local area
-
Ask. You can’t do everything yourself.
Take advantage of your resources. If
there is another family member that
can make a trip to the doctor’s office,
pick up medications or do a grocery
run….call them!
-
Relax. Designate one hour a day to
winding down. It could be reading a
good book, taking a warm bath,
watching a favorite TV show or
meditation
Expert. If your feelings of sadness
are persistent, go talk to a professional.
You can discuss your symptoms with
your primary care physician or a
psychiatrist. Options for treatment
include therapy, anti-depressant
medications or a combination of both.
Why suffer with these symptoms,
when there is help available?
References:
1. Birgitte Schoenmakers, Frank Buntinx, Jan
Delepeleire, Factors determining the impact
of care-giving on caregivers of elderly
patients with dementia. A systematic
literature review, Maturitas, Volume 66, Issue
2, June 2010, Pages 191-200

31. The National Institute of
Mental Health
offers the following
recommendations:
Depression tips
Early attention to symptoms of depression may
help to prevent the development of a more serious
depression over time.
If you have depression, you may feel exhausted,
helpless, and hopeless. It may be extremely
difficult to take any action to help yourself. But as
you begin to recognize your depression and begin
treatment, you will start to feel better.
To Help A Loved One, do not wait too long to get
evaluated or treated. There is research showing
the longer one waits, the greater the impairment
can be down the road. Try to see a professional as
soon as possible.
Try to be active and exercise. Go to a movie,
a ballgame, or another event or activity that
you once enjoyed.
Set realistic goals for yourself.
Break up large tasks into small ones, set some
priorities and do what you can as you can.
Try to spend time with other people and
confide in a trusted friend or relative.
Try not to isolate yourself, and let
others help you.
Expect your mood to improve gradually, not
immediately. Do not expect to suddenly "snap out
of" your depression.
Often during treatment for depression, sleep and
appetite will begin to improve before your
depressed mood lifts.
Postpone important decisions, such as getting
married or divorced or changing jobs, until you
feel better. Discuss decisions with others who
know you well and have a more objective view of
your situation.
Remember that positive thinking will replace
negative thoughts as your depression responds to
treatment.
Continue to educate yourself about
depression.
Source: NIH Mental Health
Magazine/January, 2012 3

32. 5 Magazine/Issue #2
Caregiving + Patient Care
Resource Directory Project
poweredbyCareNovate
CareNovate Magazine is excited to introduce our open source curation of
tools, resources for caregivers, patient care providers, direct care works and
families.
Our goal is to provide a centralized guide of resources for
caregivers locally, nationally and globally.
If you have an app, service, product or have a business that caters to patients,
caregivers and their families,
click here to add it to the list.
It takes less than 2 minutes to so.
If you have a personal caregiving blog or a book, you also can add a free listing
to our Directory.With our Directory, we hope to create a go-to resource to
help family caregivers find just what they need.
We encourage you to join us by adding to the growing list of health, wellness,
medication management, care coordination, etc)
mobile, digital apps, services, products, intended to simplify family's caregiving
experiences & daily role.
Add it to the list.
Startups are welcome as well.
www.carenovatemag.com

33. 33 Magazine/Issue #3 2014
Brain injury can happen anytime,
anywhere, to anyone.
Brain injury does not discriminate.
In fact, 2.5 million Americans sustai
n a brain injury each year.
Brain Injury Association of America
www.biausa.org
10 minutes of quiet
meditation once a week is
great for #BrainHealth
#Selfcare tip #212

34. Brain Games
Today, most people consious about health have a daily routine that
includes some form of exercise. We know the benefits of physical exercise to our health.
Brain fitness is the next step in that revolution.
Exercise your memory, attention, and more. As with physical exercise, brain
exercise can help you improve your performance and feel your best.
Websites with games that can be played online
Braingle - www.braingle.com
Fitbarins - www.fitbrains.com
Jigzone - www.jigzone.com
Cognitive Labs - games.cognitivelabs.com
www.setgame.com
Websites with activities and games for a fee:
• Mybraintrainer.com • www.happy-neuron.com
• www.lumosity.com • www.positscience.com
For more resources & books to read, visit our 100+ free resource page
+ Marketplace at www.carenovatemag.com

35. Health Info & Data
Facts. News.
Music & Brain
Health
Preliminary studies of
music therapy suggest
they may be helpful for
some of the symptoms
related to dementia, such
as agitation and
depression. Several
studies on music therapy
in people with
Alzheimer’s disease have
shown improvement in
agitation, depression,
and quality of life.
Source: NCCAM.NIH.GOV
Brain Food + O
mega 3
Omega-3s are a group of
polyunsaturated fatty acids
that are important for a
number of functions in the
body. They’re found in foods
such as fatty fish and
vegetable oils and are also
available as dietary
supplements. Research on
omega-3s, particularly for
heart health, has been
complex and confusing. A
number of studies have
shown that omega-3s had
protective effects for heart
disease risk factors such as
level of triglycerides in the
blood. However, research
has not consistently found
that administration of
omega-3s as dietary
supplements actually
changes the rate of heart
attacks or other
cardiovascular events.
Experts did agree that
seafood rich in omega-3
fatty acids is a useful
component of a heart-
healthy diet.
Talk with your health care
provider if you are
considering taking
omega-3 supplements.
Carbs: Not
Good For Brain
Recent reports in
medical literature link ca
rbohydrate calorie-rich
diets to a greater risk fo
r brain shrinkage,
dementia and
Alzheimer’s disease,
impaired cognition and
other disorders -
Source: American College
of Nutrition.
Which Brand of
Fish Oil?
According to LabDoor
CEO, Neil Thanedar., a
company that evaluates
the quality of dietary
supplements, 21 of 30
fish oil supplements
tested were found to
have
omega-3 fatty acid levels
that varied by more than
10% from their label
claims.
The supplements rated
as being the highest
quality included Dr.
Tobias Optimum Omega
3 Fish Oil; Nordic
Naturals Ultimate Omega
D3; Axis Labs Citrus
Omega Fish Oil; GNC
Triple Strength Fish Oil
and NOW Foods Ultra
Omega 3.
TIP:
Keep fish oil in
refrigerator once its
opened to extend the
shelf life.
Breast Cancer &
Depression
Major depressive disorder,
or depression, is a serious
illness. Depression
interferes with your daily
life and routine and
reduces your quality of
life. 6.7% of U.S. adults
ages 18 & older have
depression.
Depression affects
~ 15% to 25% of cancer
patients.
Source: National Cancer
Institute (NCI)
CNM
35 Magazine/Issue #3 2014

36. 11 Magazine/Issue #2
We will looooove
to hear from you!
Give us your opinion.
Send us your
comments to
info@carenovate.com
Missed the Premier
Issue, Get it here
Editor's
Picks
RESOURCES
Did you know that
The Eldercare Locator is a free, public service of the
U.S. Administration on Aging.
Call 800-677-1116
To get information on transportation, meals, home
care, caregiver support programs and
other valuable esources for older adults.
Did you know that
The U.S. is unprepared to
meet the current & future
workforce needs
for its older adult
population.
YES!
10,000 baby boomers
turn 65 everyday.
Eldercare Workforce Alliance (EWA).

37. Magazine/Spring 2014 37
Spring sports season is
coming and high school
sports practices are getting
started. March is also
National Brain Injury
Awareness Month, and it’s a
great time to learn more
about a brain health issue
that can affect any of us at
any time, no matter our age,
gender or athletic ability.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), also
known as concussion or closed
head injury, is a major public health
concern. The Centers for Disease
Control report between 1.7 and 3.8
million cases of TBI in the United
States occur annually.
This is an astounding rate,
especially when compared to the
annual incidence rates of more
recognized ailments such as breast
cancer (176,300) or HIV/AIDS
(43,681). Yet experts agree that even
these high numbers probably
grossly underestimate the
incidence of such brain injuries, as
they often go undiagnosed and
unreported.
In addition, TBIs are associated
with approximately 30.5% of injury-
related deaths each year. Clearly
this is something we should all
know more about.
Cynthia R. Green, Ph.D. is a clinical
psychologist, author, and noted speaker
who is a leading expert in brain health.
Founder of the Memory Enhancement
Program at the Mount Sinai Medical
Center, Dr. Green heads the Total Brain
Health® program, which provides
professional certification training in brain
health programs as well as programs for the
general public. For more information visit
www.totalbrainhealth.com.
Traumatic Brain
Injury IQ
4ThingsEveryoneYouShouldKnowBy Dr CynthiaGreen,PhD

38. Magazine/2014 Issue 3 38
1. TBI Can Show Itself in Many
Ways. TBI is caused by impact to the
brain resulting from a direct or indirect
impact to the head, face, neck, or
elsewhere. You do not need to lose
consciousness or experience serious
symptoms at injury to have had a TBI.
Additional symptoms of TBI include
behavioral or emotional changes, diffuse
physical complaints such as headaches,
sleep disturbance, and cognitive changes
including slower reaction times, difficulty
concentrating, or feeling like you can’t
think clearly or are in a “fog.” The more
subtle symptoms associated with TBI can
make it harder to recognize and easier to
shrug off. However the growing body of
clinical research underscores the
importance of recognizing, assessing and
treating all TBIs, no matter how “minor.”
2. TBI May Matter Over the Long-
Term.
More and more studies suggest that having
a TBI, especially more than once, may have
long-term consequences. Several studies in
retired professional football players with a
history of multiple TBI have found that they
are at increased risk for memory
impairment and dementia. In addition,
Canadian researchers recently reported that
former athletes who suffered a concussion
over 30 years previously showed decreased
cognitive performance and abnormal
findings on brain MRI when compared with
a similarly aged group who did not sustain
such injuries. Taken together, these studies
raise questions about the long-term impact
of TBI for all of us, even if we do not play a
professional sport. A review published last
month by leading experts in the field
proposes that repeated TBIs may cause a
cascade of physiological changes in the
brain that accelerate cognitive aging.
3. I’m A Coach Potato and Never
Played Sports, Why Should I Care
about TBI?
Unlike most brain health issues, TBI is of
concern for all of us, no matter what our
age, gender or occupation. The age groups
at greatest risk for TBI are children ages 0-4,
teens, and older adults over 65. Falls are the
second most frequent cause of TBI among
the frail elderly and the very young, with
adults over 75 having the highest incidence
of reported TBI. About 50 percent of
reported TBIs are the result of motor
vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian-vehicle
incidents. Car accidents are the highest
cause of head injury in adolescents. Teens
are also at greater risk for sports-related
concussions, which often may go unnoticed
or unreported. Studies suggest that young
female athletes may be more vulnerable to
TBI. In a recent report in the June 2012 issue
of the American Journal of Sports Medicine
researchers at Michigan State University
found that younger female athletes take
longer to recover from TBI-related
symptoms than their male counterparts.
Finally, our military troops are experiencing
higher rates of documented TBI, in part due
to changes in combat technology.
4. OK I’m Concerned about TBI –
But What Can I Do About It?
As research interest in closed brain injury
grows, there is much we can learn about
TBI, including what we can do to “mind our
brains” when it comes to this increasingly
common brain health concern.
What is your TBI IQ?
Here are 4 things about TBI that you may not know:

39. Here are a few steps to consider to lower TBI risk for
yourself and others in your family, and some things you
should know if you or someone you care for
experiences a TBI:
Protect Yourself.
There are many common-sense steps we can all take to lower our risk for TBI. Wear helmets
(and insist that others do as well) for high impact sports, such as cycling, skateboarding and
skiing. Your helmet should fit snugly and comfortably. And it should be strapped on.
Wearing a helmet unstrapped may seem “cool,” but a helmet won’t do much if it flies off
your head at impact. Finally, parents need to wear helmets, too. Insisting that your kids
wear helmets and then leaving them off your own head isn’t setting a very good example.
Always use seat belts in the car, which is not only a good idea but also the law in most
states. Finally, look for and remove tripping hazards around the house, such as small area
rugs or electric cords, which are a very significant trip risk especially for older adults.
Take Care of Your Athlete.
If you have a child who participates in sports, check if their school or team requires
baseline cognitive testing. Such tests offer a guideline when assessing a TBI injury, and
many school districts now mandate such tests for participation in their athletic programs.
Insist that your athlete use appropriate protective gear. Finally, if your athlete is injured,
make sure that they receive appropriate assessment and treatment, and are given plenty of
time to heal completely and are cleared by a doctor prior to returning to play. Be sensitive
to any uncharacteristic changes in mood, attention, or academic performance, which may
be signs of a missed TBI.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Researchers are just beginning to understand more about the reasons individuals have
different courses of outcome from TBI. One theory recently discussed suggests that having
greater cognitive resources, or Cognitive Reserve, may reduce risk for the long-term
consequences seen in repeated TBI. This argument is particularly interesting from a brain
health perspective, as studies have previously shown that folks who are intellectually
engaged over their lifetime may have an associated lower risk for dementia, perhaps due
to greater Cognitive Reserve. Certainly staying intellectually engaged is simply just a good
idea; as such activities appear to be protective for long-term brain health.
Want more information on concussion?
Visit the Centers for Disease Control website to learn more.

40. 1. Say Thank You!
A simple,
heartfelt, sincere
"thank you very much"
will do the trick.
Make you
convey why you
are so grateful
3.Give a Gift.
A gift certificate
to the spa, massgae, yoga or
meditation class
will do wonders for the
body & soul.
2. Offer Time!
Know a caregiver,
offer them TIME to take a
brake, go to grocery,
run errands &/ or time for th
doctor's appointment
5Simple
&
Cost
Effective
Ways
To
SHOW
Gra
ti
tude
Magazine/2014 Issue 3 40

41. 5.Send A Happy Song
Cheer
a caregiver up,
send them
a listen of
the infectious
song, Happy
(from Despicable
Me 2)
by Pharrell
Williams
4.Write a Lett.rs
Miss the good ole
days of penmanship,
writing to express
thanks?
Then write a
Lettrs™, a new social
media platform,
which is designed to
bring back the art of
meaningful
communications.
heir
Become
one of our
senior care,
aging,
medication
safety,
health
literacy &
caregiving,
experts.
To learn more,
please call 832.589.0076
or
info@carenovate.com

42. "The reason is simple;
the majority of hospital
workers are not trained to
recognize the unique needs of
Alzheimer’s
and dementia patients.
To further complicate
matters,
they are most often
understaffed which means
things can be easily missed,
sometimes with tragic results.
Simply put, dementia
patients often do not receive the
special care they require and the
results can be disastrous."
- Gary LeBlanc
LeBlanc’s was the sole caregiver to his father, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s
disease, the cause of 70% of all dementias. A nightmare encounter lead him to action.
The wristband program is currently being piloted at Brooksville Regional Hospital
in Hernando County, Florida.
Hospital
Wristband
Program
The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Hospital Wristband Program was
founded by author, family caregiver Gary Joseph LeBlanc.
He shares with CareNovate Magazine,
the inspiration behind this innovative program
Written by Dr. Erowele
Magazine/2014 Issue 3 42

43. Magazine/2014 Issue #23 42
CNM: WHAT IS THE ALZHEIMER'S/DE
MENTIA WRISTBAND PROGRAM?
This is a project I am extremely passionate
about. Our goal is to assure that all patients
with Alzheimer’s or other dementia related
diseases, will experience as calm and tranquil
a stay as is possible during any time spent in a
hospital. With this thought in mind, we have
recently designed a specific wristband which
will be fitted to all patients with dementia at
the time of their hospital admittance. The
band will be quite noticeable as it is designed
to have a purple angel logo.
The very sight of this band will communicate to
all hospital staff that these patients are
memory-impaired and to approach them with
this in mind. Most importantly, we will be
training all hospital personnel on dementia
care.
CNM: WHAT WAS THE DRIVING
FORCE BEHIND THIS PROJECT?
Throughout the 10-year journey of caring for
my dad with Alzheimer’s disease, he and I
personally experienced three different
occasions when hospital admissions were
complete nightmares. Throughout the years,
my readers have contacted me with horror
stories of their own. Many of their family
members with dementia endured hospital
stays that would make your skin crawl. These
stories have come to me from all over the
world, not just here in the United States.
CNM: BROOKSVILLE REGIONAL
HOSPITAL IN FLORIDA IS A PILOT
SITE. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE
PROGRAM?
The wristband project does several things:
Upon admission, patients with a prior
diagnosis of dementia have a “Purple Angel”
affixed to their standard issue hospital
wristband for identification purposes.
In addition a “Purple Angel” is placed on
their door so that anyone entering knows they
should approach with the special needs of
these patients in mind.
Hospital staff, volunteers and at this point,
some first responders receive training that I
have developed in partnership with the
Alzheimer’s Association-Florida Gulf Coast
Chapter. Use of “sitters” will become standard
practice, allowing families to take much
needed breaks without worrying that their
loved ones will be left alone.
A dementia screening will be added to the
admission process in hopes of identifying any
cognitive impairment, even if there is no prior
diagnosis.
The Purple Angel logo, originally developed in
the UK and inspired by Norman McNamara, is
quickly becoming an internationally accepted
symbol for “Dementia Awareness.” It
represents all dementia related diseases. A
big key to the success of this project is that
one standard symbol is used across all
healthcare systems making it instantly
recognizable.
CNM: WHOLEHEARTED SUPPORT
FROM THE ALZHEIMER€? ? S
ASSOCIATION. ARE YOU WORKING
WITH OTHER NATIONAL OR
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
AT THE MOMENT?
I have many other health organization
interested in this program, but we have to run
the pilot program first and learn from it; get
the bugs out, so to speak. It is extremely
important to keep the same protocols in place
and make the program universal in all
hospitals with the same logo and the same
training everywhere. Right now we need to be
patient and build some statistics from the pilot
program.

44. CNM: HOW CAN OTHER
HOSPITALS OR
ORGANIZATIONS BE PART OF
THIS PATIENT SAFETY
MOVEMENT?
To get other hospitals involved, I would
suggest contacting me or the local
Alzheimer’s Association Chapter in their
area.
CNM: WHERE DO YOU GO
ONLINE FOR YOUR HEALTH,
WELLNESS & MEDICAL
INFORMATION?
As a writer, I’m always researching and
looking for new resources, however I
find myself returning to the Mayo
Clinic’s website quite often. They seem
to have everything written in layman’s
terms and their info is usually spot on.
CNM: WHAT IS NEXT FOR MR.
LEBLANC AND ALZHEIMER'S/DE
MENTIA WRISTBAND PROJECT?
Next is trying to get the wristband
project in all hospitals around the
country and then some. Also, finishing
the next book on aftereffects that
caregivers go through. It is important
that we realize that this journey isn’t
over when it’s over. So many caregivers
need help to re-enter that social world
we once knew.
After caring for a loved one who is ill
for many years, and they pass on, for
caregivers it’s as though someone has
suddenly shut off a light switch, leaving
them in the dark. Sometimes they need
a little extra help finding that switch
again. It’s important to know that this
doesn’t have to mean going through it
alone.
CareNovate Magazine//Spring 2014 44
Gary Joseph LeBlanc's Tips Caring for A Loved
One with Alzheimer's Disease/Dem
As the primary caregiver for my dad, the best advice I can give is this:
1.
When caring for patients who are suffering from dementia, it is essential to
concentrate on keeping their anxiety and frustration to a low level.
2.
I have found that "routine" is the best place to start. By having them live in a
run-of-the-mill lifestyle, both the patients and caregivers are helped
immensely.
3.
Keep everything in patterns. Redirection is another tool that the caregiver
needs to master, whether it is a quick turn in words or direction, or simply
using the senses of touch, taste or smell. Learning how to direct them back on
a smoother, calmer path is priceless.
*

45. www.burnbright-lifeworks.com
Martine Ehrenclou, M.A is an award-winning
author and patient advocate, that empowers
patients to become proactive, well informed
participants in their own care.
She has also written the multiple award-winning
Critical Conditions: The Essential Hospital. Guide to
Get Your Loved One Out Alive (Lemon Grove Press).
Ehrenclou writes monthly articles for several health
websites, national magazines, and is interviewed
regularly on national TV and radio such as ABC News,
ABC World News and many more. She frequently
lectures on how to be an advocate for yourself and your
loved ones at universities, hospitals and various
organizations.
mentia
CareNovate Magazine//Spring 2014 45

46. TIFFANY:
"Every 16 seconds someone becomes a
victim to a traumatic brain injury.
Though this statistic is impactful
you can in no way imagine how strong of
an impact it has taken on my family.
My husband is a TBI survivor.
There is no preparation for a such injury.
When it happens you must educate
yourself and be ready to fight.
Not only for the life of the sufferer but for their
dignity, care, and place in society.
TBI debilitated not only my husband but
also my family.
It was truly like throwing a rock in a pond.
That one impact affected the lives of
many people
that instant and now years later.
We have all become collateral damage to a TBI.
"

47. Mom.
Wife. Caregiv
er.
Traumatic
Brain Injury
(TBI)
Advocate
& Activist!
Her Inspiring Story
Tiffany
Brooks
CareNovate Magazine//Spring 2014 47
FEATURE STORY

48. CNM:You play numerous roles –
wife, mother, TBI Advocate and
business women. How does being
a caregiver changed things?
TIFFANY: It seems each day a new role
has surfaced in my life. I was totally
prepared for the role of mother,
business woman, and wife; but in no way
was there any preparation as a Care
Giver and TBI advocate. AS a woman I
knew what duties a mom entailed, I
learned quickly the duties of a wife. I
have been an Entrepreneur for many
years prior to my marriage so with these
roles I had comfort and security. Once
we knew my husband suffered from a
TBI that is when all the new things came
to me seemingly in a torrential flood. I in
my Early 30s had never fathomed being
a care taker of an adult.
My family was healthy. We never had
discussions of what ifs regarding long
term care, dementia, kidney failure, and
heart failure, none of these things were
issues. I had to roll up my sleeves and
figure out each step on my own. Back
then I had no idea others were truly
suffering the way my husband was and I
certainly didn’t know people cared.
My life has changed in so many ways.
Being a care giver catapulted me into a
community of need, awareness, despair,
fear, and uncertainty. I knew that wasn’t
what I wanted for myself or my family. If
I was not okay there was no way my
suffering husband would last and my
children would suffer more. That is when
my advocacy kicked in.
I made a vow to not only change the life
of my family but also the lives of others
suffering from such an unfortunate
diagnosis. Now my life’s issues and
endeavors have become a business for
me. I am now a personal and
professional care taker; Doing it all one
way or another, for many throughout the
nation.
CNM: You are probably a
champion now in raising
awareness when it comes to TBI.
Share your message
TIFFANY: Now that I have been
caretaking and advocating for so very
long it has become second nature to me.
I feel the pain, joy, and triumph of each
scenario. Many people often ask me
exactly how I do all of these things? All I
can say is “there is hope, and it is what
it…” We are fighting a battle of advocacy
for a disease that has been plaguing
society since the beginning of time. It
bothers me that no one ever studied the
brain avidly years ago. Until recently the
only place for those suffering from TBI’s
without supportive family’s; were jails,
institutions, and death. If we are one
team then this cause should not be a
battle it should only be an endeavor of
growth, change, and possibility.
CNM: Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
is a serious public health
problem in the United States.
What do you think are the current
challenges facing families and
our society when it comes to TBI.
The faint-hearted need not apply.
Tiffiny: With TBI’s being such a serious
public health issue in the United States I
feel the most current challenges facing
us all is not enough education and
research, lack of awareness, ignorance
run rampant, and fear. Families are being
broken. Children are being over
medicated, Parental roles are being
reversed, suicide is running rampant,
and society is treating this epidemic
with too many medicines, ineffective 72
hour holds within mental facilities, and
admittance into correctional facilities.
There is more that can be done. How do
we move forward from such an epidemic
if society is not aware or prepared?
Society as a whole must make a
conscious effort to love our brains and
nurture them

49. Our biggest comfort stems from knowing we are prepared for that shoe to drop.
His spirits are a roller coaster ride. At fifty he no longer has his driving privileges.
There are many things he must have a second opinion on daily. The role of being
a husband and a father varies upon his state of mind. Knowing that each moment
might be the very last time he is able to interact and engage with us on a normal
lucid level is sometimes debilitating. As a family we all play a powerful and
important role in keeping him on track, happy, and safe. We have found what
inspires, encourages and motivates him. That is mostly time with our children,
helping others, the word of God and our steady network of friends and
organizations that have been with us on this journey. CNM
CareNovate Magazine//Spring 2014 49
CNM:
What tips & advice can you
give those families who are not
aware or not
seeking help?
Being somewhat of a pioneer on this
front, I have
witnessed a great deal over the years.
There is a negative stigma when it comes
to Brain injuries and mental illness.
Families and sufferers often become
reclusive, protective and defensive in
regards to the way they deal with this.
Everyone should know they are not alone;
there is support and comfort throughout
this journey. Once you understand this
disease, educate yourself and those
around you, and most definitely prepare
yourself for as much you time as possible
to retreat and regroup; you move forward
in a triumphant proactive manner. In the
life of the Brooks family we tend to take it
one day at a time. There is no rhyme or
reason to this. Today my husband is within
his faculties but as we all know that can
change within a second, minute, hour,
day, or week.
"Everyone should
know
they are not alone;
there is support and comfort
throughout this journey.
Once you understand this
disease, educate yourself and
those around you, and most
definitely prepare yourself
for as much you time as
possible to retreat and
regroup; you move
forward in a triumphant
proactive manner. "

50. “If we want to make the best
products, we also have to invest in the
best ideas... Every dollar we invested to
map the human genome returned $140
to our economy... Today, our scientists
are mapping the human brain to
unlock the answers to Alzheimer’s…
Now is not the time to gut these job-
creating investments in science and
innovation. Now is the time to reach a
level of research and development not
seen since the height of the Space
Race.”
- President Barack Obama,
2013 State of the Union

51. Healthy & Quick Tasty
Meals for Busy Caregivers
Featuring Kat's Cooking
Basil Sundried Tomato Garlic Baby Spinach Shrimp Pasta
This dish is mouth
watering, calls for
multitude of instructions
– however it is worth the
effort. It calls for tons of
spinach. If you are up for
the effort, this dish is full
of flavor while still being
quite light.
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook time:30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:
Shrimp -
Cherry tomatoes - 2/3 cup
Sun Dried Tomatoes - 1 cup
2 cups of baby spinach -
Garlic - 2 tablespoons minced
Lemon - 2 lemons
Black Pepper - 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh
ground
Salt - 2 tablespoons
Butter - 2 tablespoons
Linguini -
Parmesan cheese - 3/4 cup shredded
Red Pepper Flakes - To garnish
Basil - 1 cup cut into thin strips
Parsley - 1 tablespoon minced ( to garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cut your lemons in half and squeeze out as
much juice as you can into a cup. Use a sieve
to remove the pulp and seeds.
2. Slice your sundried tomatoes into thin
strips
3. Rinse your baby spinach and put them in a
bowl
4. Rinse your baby tomatoes and cut in half
5. Peel and devein your shrimp
6. Heat your pan to medium heat
7. Put the butter in the pan. Once it begins to
sizzle, add garlic, mix well, frying garlic
8. After 3-4 minutes and add the shrimp
Cook for 6-7 minutes and add the
lemon juice
9. Add your salt and black pepper to taste
(it's ok if it's a bit salty as the pasta will dilute
this)
10. Cook for another 6-7 minutes
Start boiling your water for your pasta
11. When it's boiling, go ahead and cook your
linguini to instructions.
12. Once cooked, set the linguini aside.
Heat the second pan - Note you can do this
as the pasta cooks
13. Add a tablespoon of butter
14. Add the halved tomatoes
15. Cook on high for about 10 minutes until
they begin to sear
16. Add the strips of sundried tomatoes
Cook for another 5 minutes
17. Back to the first pan : Add the baby
spinach on top of the shrimp. Make sure the
pasta is done and drained.
18. Mix and toss for just 3 - 5 minutes. You
want them to wilt but not completely wither.
19. Add the pasta to the pan and mix
20. Once fully mixed, add the tomatoes from
the second pan
Mix again
21. Garnish with basil
22. Garnish with parmesan cheese , red
pepper flakes and parsley (optional)
topped dish
For more, http://katscooking.com
CareNovate Magazine//Spring 2014 51

52. TAX TIPS
It is Spring and by the time we know it, it will be April 15 which means
time to pay taxes. If you or you know someone who
provide more than half the financial support for a
care recipient? If so you may be entitled to tax
deduction relief. AARP provides some great
information but consult your tax accountant to
make sure you qualify.
3 ways you can reap tax benefits as a family caregiver:
1. You might be able to claim your loved one as a dependent, reducing
your taxable income by $3,700.
2. You might qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
3. You may qualify for a deduction for money you spent on your
loved one’s medical expenses and care.
Here’s how it works.
To claim your loved one as a dependent:
• Your loved one’s gross income must be less than $3,700
(excluding Social Security or disability payments).
• You must be paying for more than half of your loved one’s
expenses.
• Your loved one can’t be claimed as a dependent by anyone else.
The Child and Dependent Care Credit could be an option if:
• You have earned income.
• Your loved one can’t take care of him or herself due to
mental or physical limitations.
• The recipient must be claimed as a dependent on your
tax return.
This option would provide you with a credit of up to 35 % of the
expenses incurred for dependent care, with a maximum of
$3,000 (translating into a maximum $1,050 tax credit).
• If your loved one’s gross income was more than $3,700, you
cannot claim him or her as a dependent, but you might be
able to take a deduction on the medical expenses if those are
more than 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income.
CareNovate Magazine//Spring 2014 52

53. Thank You For Your Feedback!
Share The Magazine With Others In Your Network.
Email Us: info@carenovate.com
Subscribe To Get The Magazine in Your Mailbox
www.carenovatemag.com
Rate This Issue Below.

54. Depression &
Caregivers
Tipsonhowtogethelpyou
neednow
Mrs.
Tiffany
BrooksOn being a wife,
mom & family
caregiver NFL style
CareNovateMagazine
Traumatic
Brain InjuryWhat every parent,
caregiver need to know
about traumatic
brain injury (TBI)
The Essential Guide for Caregivers & Patient Care Advocates
www.carenovatemag.com
Spring 2014 - Issue No. 3
Living your very best, health & care!
Gele TeaDementia Awareness
with African
Fashion
+ Style