An advocate for person-centred care, Romina is U-FIRST certified and has studied Montessori Methods for Dementia; Behavioral Support Training; and Palliative Care for Dementia. Follow Romina on Twitter: @RominaOliverio
An advocate for person-centred care, Romina is U-FIRST certified and has studied Montessori Methods for Dementia; Behavioral Support Training; and Palliative Care for Dementia. Follow Romina on Twitter: @RominaOliverio
Articles by Romina Oliverio
Article: Advice
Ask The Expert: Hallucinations, Explained
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
"In memory's telephoto lens, far objects are magnified," wrote John Updike. These memories can sometimes infuse hallucinations, whether disturbing or, occasionally, sweet. Q. My mom, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's years ago, has been experiencing hallucinations. I found her having a conversation…
Article: Advice
Ask the Expert: Scared of job loss from diagnosis
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
Romina advises a woman whose middle-aged husband is showing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, but who is delaying the trip to the doctor: What impact will a diagnosis have? Question: My husband is showing many signs at age 52. I am scared to take him for a diagnosis for many reasons. I think he will…
Article: Advice
Ask The Expert: How do I Take Away The Car Keys?
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
The topic of driving is one that puts fear into the most seasoned caregiver. The issue isn't only taking away the keys to a car—it's dealing with the loss of independence someone feels when they’re no longer able to drive on their own. Q: My father’s doctor has indicated that dad will soon…
Article: Advice
Ask the Expert: Rants take toll on kids
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
Romina Oliverio advises one caregiver whose husband's outbursts are distressing a 17- and 7-year-old, not to mention the caregiver herself. Question: My husband was diagnosed two and half years ago. He was immediately retired and our entire lives changed. I have two boys at home, 7 & 17. We have…
Article: Advice
Ask the expert: When you feel you are a betrayer
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
Emotions run very high during the transition from home to long-term care or memory care facilities. How do you broach the topic when you are wracked with guilt, and your mom bluntly refuses? Question: My mother finally needs to move to a long-term care home, but she won't go. We've talked and…
Article: Advice
Ask the expert: communication is not always about talking
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
One of the misconceptions of dementia is that as the condition progresses, communication is entirely lost: Not so, communication, or some form of it, is possible in all stages. Question: I look after my aunt who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Lately she has been having trouble communicating.…
Article: Advice
Ask The Expert: When Dad Won't Shower
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
Romina Oliverio, Alzlive.com's Ask The Expert columnist, advises one caregiver whose father will no longer bathe. Question: My dad, who has had Alzheimer's for about five, six years, now absolutely refuses to shower. I don't know what's going on... is it the feeling of water on his face? I've tried…
Article: Advice
Ask the Expert: Accusations
by ROMINA OLIVERIO
What happens when the go-to tip (distract) is no longer working? In Alzlive.com’s inaugural Ask the Expert column, Romina gives practical tips to one distressed caregiver. Question: How do you deal with someone who accuses you of stealing? I've tried diverting her attention or changing the subject…