Smith Alzheimer's Center at SIU Medicine

11/25/2025

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! Our clinics will reopen on Monday, Dec. 1.

11/24/2025

You know what's better than Thanksgiving leftovers? Joining the MIND Diet class on Monday, December 1!

We have a couple spots open for Monday's program, which is designed for those with memory loss and provides a hands-on class on how to make new, healthy meals. From 11:30a-1p, learn from our SIU Culinary Medicine team and taste your own creation.

Contact Debbie Kuhns at dkuhns76@siumed.edu to reserve your spot today!

11/21/2025

Sing by Heart wrapped up its latest session this week, filled with music from the 60s, smiles and harmonizing.

If you're interested in participating in 2026, we'd love to have you! Designed for those with memory loss and their family members, Sing by Heart is about the joy of music rather than hitting the perfect pitch. Our thanks to the Springfield Choral Society, Westminster Presbyterian Church and King's Daughters Organization for helping make this program possible.

Our next session starts in February. To learn more and reserve a spot, contact care@siumed.edu or visit siumed.org/alzsing

11/19/2025

Technology can help families dealing with dementia in so many ways.

From automatic switches that turn off stoves, utensils that are easier to grip, to realistic pets that can help calm an agitated person, the right technology can improve safety, accessibility and quality of life.

Read our latest blog: siumed.org/blog/smart-comfort-technology-and-dementia-care

11/13/2025

We enjoyed our time in Effingham being a part of the latest screening for My Mama Joe: Hope & Help!

Thanks again to producer Herb Caldwell for having our executive director Erin Hascup, PhD share what we do at the Smith Alzheimer's Center and the future of Alzheimer's research.

The full documentary My Mama Joe is available to watch on PBS: https://www.pbs.org/show/my-mama-joe-hope-help/

11/10/2025

Catch up on our caregiver tips for Alzheimer's Awareness month!

6. Stay ahead of schedule
🗓 Write down the day’s schedule on a whiteboard or notepad in a visible area. This can reduce repeated questions like “What are we doing today?” and provide comfort through routine.

7. Keep walkways well-lit
✨ Use nightlights or soft lighting to help your loved one move safely at night - enough to help light the way so overhead lights don't need to be turned on.

Also, consider glow-in-the-dark light switches to locate easily. For outdoor use, motion-sensor lights can prevent confusion or falls.

11/06/2025

💊 Today’s Tip: Make Medications Automatic

Remembering daily medications can be tough — even for those without memory loss! Automatic pill dispensers add an extra layer of safety by releasing the right pills at the right time.

While some models can be pricey, affordable options are available and can help prevent missed doses, overdoses, or confusion about which medication to take.

A small tool that makes a big difference. 💜

11/06/2025

11/05/2025

Chuck Krell found more than hope and new treatments when his wife Reva started in a clinical trial. He found new connections with a research team that has decades of experience and expertise.

“You get to know them, and it's just like family."

Read our newest story here -> https://www.siumed.org/blog/where-research-meets-compassion

11/04/2025

🦶 Today’s Tip: Put Their Best Foot Forward

Foot care matters! It’s recommended that your loved one see a podiatrist at least once to have their feet examined and toenails trimmed — especially if they have diabetes or peripheral vascular disease.

Just like regular dental checkups keep teeth healthy, proper foot care helps prevent pain, infection and mobility issues. Keeping feet clean, comfortable and cared for supports overall well-being. 💜

11/03/2025

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month 💜

We’re sharing a tip a day to help make life a little easier for people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia — and their caregivers.

🌅 Today’s tip: Start early to avoid sundowning
About 1 in 5 people with Alzheimer’s experience sundowning — that late-day restlessness that builds up after a busy or overstimulating day.

⏰ Keep a consistent schedule to provide structure.
☕ Skip caffeine after lunch.
🏃‍♀️ Encourage light physical activity and limit long naps.
🎵 Play familiar music in the late afternoon to help calm and distract.

Routines can make evenings more peaceful for everyone. 💜

11/02/2025

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month 💜

👗 Today’s caregiver tip: A daily photo

✅ Tell your loved one they look great and ask to take a picture in the morning. That way if you need to show someone what they look like, you have their exact outfit and look for that day.

Whether they have wandered out of the house, are taking a long time in a public restroom or you’re on a trip and get separated, having that photo on hand can help others recognize them quickly.

💜