December 6th through the 12th is national Influenza (flu) vaccination week. This is a reminder for everyone 6 months or older that there is still time to get their flu vaccine. The exact timing and duration of flu season varies, but flu activity often begins to increase in the month of October. Most of the time flu activity will peak between December and February. The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated every year.

If you're visiting a loved one with Alzheimer's disease during this holiday season, here are some tips to try and have a more pleasant visit.......

Know that Alzheimer's commonly includes issues with:

• Communication: trouble finding words, expressing specific thoughts, or following along with conversations.


• Memory: repeating a question, not recognizing a family member or friend right away, struggling to do everyday tasks.


• Behavior: agitation, verbal or physical outbursts, and irritability.

Tips to help communicate:

• Always approach your loved one calmly from the front in order to avoid startling them.


• Avoid arguing, criticizing or correcting them.


• Remain calm and encourage them to express themselves...