Kathryn Kilpatrick M.A. CCC/SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist 

   Author      Geriatric Communication Consultant       Speaker      

WHAT'S NEW AT COMMUNICATION CONNECTION
Welcome to the new look and the website that reflects why Kathryn created Communication Connection and Memory Fitness Matters. Communication Connection is an information center for health care professionals, older adults and their families and caregivers, as well as volunteers and faith communities. Join us quarterly for something new on the home page.

Memory Fitness Matters focuses on successful aging and lifelong learning.
WHATS'S NEW - Every Monday  - Memory Fitness blog with some suggestions for the upcoming week to enhance your ability to recall information. Remember that sharing what you learn should be part of your daily memory fitness routine.

 Enjoy the beauty of the changing of the seasons.

Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things,
but just look what they can do when they stick together. 
Vesta M. Kelly

CURRENT PROGRAMS
If there is not a program in your area, check the resources for additional opportunities to listen to what Kathryn has to share. 

NEW PRODUCTS

Helpful products created for those looking for ways to enhance the time spent with an older adult. There are also activities they might enjoydoing on their own or with the assistance of another person.

Communication Connection Resource Kit - Details and sample pages
Reminiscence Puzzles - Details and sample

IN THE NEWS
Glen Campbell recently announced he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Here is a blog where Carol Bursack shares her thoughts.  I hope each time we hear the news about a well- known person or just someone we know who had the courage to come forward, that we will take something away from the gift in their message.

Being proactive, facing the challenges with what lies ahead by seeking information, can make a lot of difference in the quality of life of that person and those they love. Too often I see patients who are beyond those earlier stages and have frustrations and issues that include a person's safety. For information on when to step in, refer to my article and blogs series Aging Parents: When to Step in. Part 1   Part 2

HAVE YOU READ......
Small Change -  It is the LITTLE Things in Life that  Make a BIG Difference! In my memory fitness coaching and presentations, I recommend starting with one of the Keys to Memory Fitness that speaks to you personally when working on your memory.  From there I developed a 7 Day Memory Fitness Program. In their book Susan and Larry Terkel state that "small changes are easier than big makeovers." This is a book that you will find useful in many areas of your life. ENJOY!


RECENT BLOG
What if You Need to be in the Care of Another Person? Many years ago when we were discussing this topic at a training sessions, a woman in her 50's remarked she was going home to write down her favorite TV shows and radio programs. Her choices were very different than those of her family and she knew that she did not want to listen to what they did if she was unable to change the station. You may want to refer to Take Charge of Your Medical Information: Communication is a Two-Way Street and the additional blogs on this topic.

“In helping others, we shall help
ourselves, for whatever good
we give out completes the circle
and comes back to us.”

               Flora Edwards