Dr Liz Geriatrics

04/12/2026

Too often, when a person with dementia is suddenly violent, or inappropriate, or in danger of making a disastrous financial decision, various professionals discount these problems as “not part of dementia” or “something that must be endured” or “the elder’s right to be foolish.”

Often, many of these problems can be solved with recognition of early dementia, determining what care plan and team is needed, a few practical steps and sometimes medication adjustment.

When all else fails, I strongly believe in using medications to treat the behavioral problems of dementia. This point of view remains controversial. But I have seen it work for patient after patient.

From my book,: Living in the Moment: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Moments of Joy in Alzheimer’s and other Dementias. DrLizGeriatrics.com/book

What have you found has worked for your loved one?

04/11/2026

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s changes everything.

What starts as small memory lapses can fast become a journey that affects every part of daily life, for both your loved one and you.

It’s emotional. It’s exhausting. And at times, it can feel overwhelming. But, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

With the right strategies and support, this journey can become more manageable and even hold moments of connection, calm, and meaning.

In this article, Dr Liz shares 31 practical, compassionate tips to help you:
• Navigate daily care with more confidence
• Respond to changing behaviors
• Build a strong support system around you
• And care for yourself along the way

Read more here:
https://www.drlizgeriatrics.com/dementia/alzheimers-and-dementia-care-31-tips-for-caring-for-an-elder-with-alzheimers/

What’s one thing that has helped you in your caregiving journey? Your experience could help someone else today.

04/09/2026

I don't think I emphasized enough, but it's good to get eight hours of unbroken sleep. Since I've gone through menopause, I don't sleep as well. I tried melatonin, but then I was having a hangover during the day, and I found myself getting sleepy at stop lights, which is scary.

So I gave that up. I gave up most of the wine, I have just one cup of decaf in the morning, but if I have it too late, then I don't sleep. If I wake up at four, I just read.

So sleep is important, and the best way to get it is cutting out the caffeine, ni****ne, alcohol, keeping busy during the day, and then limiting screens at night.

To learn more: https://www.drlizgeriatrics.com/

04/09/2026

$35.6 billion. That’s how much Americans spend on supplements every year.

That’s roughly $110 per person on pills that often promise a lot… but deliver very little.

Unfortunately, most supplements and nutraceuticals have little to no proven benefit for overall health.

Yet they’re marketed as the “quick fix” for everything from memory to longevity.

Instead of chasing the latest pill, try this:

*. Fill your plate with fresh fruits and vegetables
*. Cook simple, nourishing meals
*. Move your body every day
*. Share food and time with people you love

That’s where real health lives.

If you’re going to spend your money, invest it in things that truly support your body and your life.

Do you take supplements? Have you found any that actually made a difference?

Learn more about healthy aging: www.drlizgeriatrics.com

04/06/2026

Is it dementia… or could it be alcohol?

It’s something many families don’t realize:
Alcohol abuse can look just like dementia.

Memory loss, confusion, mood changes, even behavior that seems like cognitive decline, can sometimes be linked to alcohol use, not permanent dementia.

That’s why an important rule is often overlooked: A diagnosis of dementia shouldn’t be made until an elder has been off alcohol for several months.

Not easy? Absolutely.
But with the right support from family, caregivers, or care facilities, I’ve seen elders reduce alcohol, regain clarity, and improve their overall health.

At the same time, dementia is common:
• About 10% of people over 65
• Up to 40% over 85
And many cases still go undiagnosed.

The most common types include:
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Vascular dementia
• Lewy Body and Frontotemporal dementia
• And others, including alcohol-related dementia

Early diagnosis matters.
It gives your loved one the chance to be involved in important decisions (financial, medical, and future care) while they still can.

And no matter the cause, one thing remains true: Staying active, engaged, and connected makes a real difference.

Have you ever questioned whether symptoms were something other than dementia? You’re not alone, share your thoughts below.

Learn more: www.drlizgeriatrics.com

04/04/2026

“She’s lying …’’ or is she?’ A caregiver once shared this with me:

A woman was discharged between hospitals and told her family she’d never been offered a place in a nursing home. But the hospital confirmed, she had.

So what’s the truth?

Here’s the reality in dementia care:
What looks like lying is often something very different.

Memory gaps. Confusion. The brain trying to make sense of things it can no longer process clearly.

Families often come to me worried their loved one is being dishonest. But in many cases, they’ve simply lost the ability to keep facts straight.

And that changes how we respond.

Instead of correcting or confronting, we need to meet them with understanding, patience, and compassion.

Because in dementia, “truth” isn’t always straightforward.

Learn more about why this happens and how to respond:
https://www.drlizgeriatrics.com/behaviors/truth-can-be-a-tricky-concept/

Have you experienced something like this with your loved one? You’re not alone—share your story below.

04/04/2026

Liver is our own private filter system. Toxins like high dose Tylenol, alcohol, even just too much fat from obesity in our system can cause inflammation and damage.

The good news is avoiding alcohol, eating a plant based diet, and exercising at least 30 minutes a day can help Liv heal itself in many cases.

This Medical News article discusses a new study that examined the liver and mortality benefits of alcohol abstinence in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.

04/04/2026

Keeping Seniors Hydrated: Simple Strategies for Better Health
As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes, making dehydration a real concern, especially for elders in their 90s. Even if they don’t ask for water, they may drink readily when offered, so regular reminders are key!

* Offer drinks every few hours (but limit fluids after dinner to reduce nighttime accidents).
* If they refuse water, try hydrating foods like watermelon, ice pops, or even ice cream.
* Review medications, some diuretics may no longer be necessary and can lead to excessive fluid loss.

A little extra effort can go a long way in preventing dehydration and keeping your loved one feeling their best.

Learn more caregiving tips at: www.drlizgeriatrics.com

04/03/2026

Elders, who may be lonely and unaware of this explosion of scamming, can be particularly susceptible to those who would dishonestly separate them from their money. Almost every week, I come across an elder who has brushed up against one of these dishonest actors.

Here are some of the classic scams that I have seen directed at elders:

The Lottery: An email (or sometimes a paper letter) says you have a chance to win thousands but must send them a little money upfront. I cared for one man who sent thousands and thousands to these lotteries. He never won a penny.

Charities: Lists of people sending money to charities get circulated. Of course, there are many good causes. But many elders don’t remember when they last gave, so they send some money every time they’re asked. This can add up to hundreds and thousands of dollars.

Giveaways: If you send money or financial information, you will get a bigger reward! Except that the reward never arrives, and the elder can be out big bucks.

04/01/2026

KNOW YOUR DEMENTIA MEDS
When it comes to dementia care, more medication isn’t always the answer.

In fact, some medications can worsen confusion, increase falls, or trigger agitation, making things harder, not better.

At Dr Liz Geriatrics, we take a different approach. We look closely at every medication and ask: Is this helping… or could it be causing harm?

Often, the biggest improvements don’t come from adding another prescription but from:
• Reducing unnecessary medications
• Identifying side effects
• Using calm, compassionate communication to ease distress

Because dementia care is not just about managing symptoms, it’s about improving quality of life.

Learn more about common dementia medications - the pros, the cons, and what to watch for:
https://www.drlizgeriatrics.com/resources/medications/

Have you ever noticed a medication making things worse instead of better? You’re not alone—share your experience below.

03/31/2026

Are you missing the first signs of dementia with your loved one? You are not alone, when you don’t live with your parent or elderly they can easily hide the issue when chatting to you on the phone. But a visit can soon expose issues…

Learn about the early signs of dementia as well as more insights with Dr Liz from Dr Liz Geriatrics and a son’s personal experience.

Click the link to watch the video on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaaCXtSQFoQ

03/30/2026

If you’re over 50 and something doesn’t feel quite right - don’t ignore it.

Too often, we brush things off…
“I’m just tired.”
“It’s just getting older.”

But your body is trying to tell you something. And it’s worth listening.

Now, I’ll be honest doctors are quick to say:
“Cut the coffee, stop the alcohol, lose some weight, come back in six months.”
And while that advice has its place, real health is about more than just ticking boxes.

It’s about looking at the whole picture.

Yes, nutrition matters. A mostly plant-based or Mediterranean-style diet can make a real difference. And Yes, movement matters. Regular exercise supports both body and brain. But so do the other pieces:
Sleep, stress, medications, mood, underlying health conditions.

If something feels off, don’t wait. Get it checked. Ask questions. Advocate for yourself.

Because taking care of your health now is one of the best ways to protect your future.

Learn more about healthy aging and brain health: https://www.drlizgeriatrics.com/