Many people register for the Forum and never make a post to it. People who "lurk" can still get a great deal out of using the Forum. It is full of ideas for everyone. But the greatest benefit goes to those people who ask a question, share their feelings, help another caregiver in need, find a friend, or participate in the many fun topics. The mutual back and forth of sharing has a therapeutic effect on many people. So it's OK if you just want to stay on top of the posts of the regular participants. But I encourage you to join in and get the most out of the Forum.

Believe it or not, even if you consider yourself a Neanderthal when it comes to using the computer, you will find that you learn very quickly. The Forum software is very user friendly (with some occasional glitches, of course). We find that the trickiest part is to decide where to post your discussion topic.

The Forum is broken down into six categories, and each of those categories has several individual forums within them. The individual forums have numerous discussion topics, which are composed of the posts of our members. As a member, you are able to start a new topic, or reply to an existing topic. A few forums have limited access, or the limited ability to post new topics.

ElderCare Forum
- category
- forum
- topic
- post/reply

Where should you place your first post? If you see a discussion thread or topic that is related to the item you want to add, just post it as a reply to the existing thread. Many people stay on top of specific threads and follow them over time. It also helps to give this sometimes chaotic forum some structure. You may start a new topic if you like. We just ask that you try to post in the closest area to your topic.

Don't worry if you post to "the wrong" area or it doesn't look perfect. Nobody is going to judge you on your spelling, typos or imperfect paragraphs. Sometimes we are typing and it is more like a stream of consciousness than an essay. As a registered member, you may go back and edit your post if you want to. Sometimes the Moderators will move a post into a more appropriate forum. Rarely posts will be deleted (in the interest of space) or transferred into the archives. It is not a reflection on your post if this is done. We make every effort to preserve your comments and feedback. If an advertisement is posted to the Forum, one of us will delete it almost immediately.

WELCOME

About Our Community: Find out more about our vision and how to use these forums and interactive support services.

Newcomer's Posting Guide: Step-by-Step guide when you come here the first time.

Casual Corner: Come on in and get comfortable. This is a place to relax, have casual conversation on today's events and get to know each other.

News & Research: Stay on top of the latest research developments, including news releases and links to research tools and resources.

We Laugh to Survive: Make us laugh! Post your dumb jokes, silly anecdotes, racy rhymes and funny caregiving stories.

ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE & DEMENTIA CARE

Daily Challenges: Caring for a loved one with dementia can be especially draining. Share information and tips to help cope and manage problem behaviors.

Individuals Affected by Dementia: A place where individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia can connect and share ideas and information with each other.

Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease: Dementia can strike younger people, not just seniors. The issues and concerns of young-onset individuals and their families may be different. Includes the Spousal Caregiver's Meeting Room.

Less Common Dementias: Alzheimer's Disease is not the only form of dementia. Understanding rarer dementias can improve care and wellbeing.

ELDERCARE TOPICS

Family Dynamics: We all know that managing sibling rivalries and talking with our parents is tough. Other caregivers can help you focus on the most important thing: quality of life.

Homecare & Independent Living: Whether you are new to caregiving or have years of hard-won expertise, you can always learn tips and techniques from others.

I, Caregiver: Taking care of the caregiver is about healthy living, stress management and a positive outlook.

Legal, Financial & Insurance Matters: Understanding and preparing for legal & financial changes is critical, especially given complicated insurance programs. Share your tips and questions with other caregivers.

Residential Options: When the challenges of home care become too heavy, a facility staffed by career caregivers may be an option. Ask your peers how they came to accept the transition.

WINGS

Life's Passage: As caregivers, we must come to terms with dying and death. End-of-Life issues are painful, but fellow caregivers can help ease the pain.

Memorials: Share a little bit about your loved one. Include name, birth, diagnosis and death information, as well as place of residence.

After the Caring: Your relationship with them has changed and you continue on with your life after your loved one dies.

Former Caregiver's Meeting Room: Help each other move on after you have completed your caregiving responsibilities.

ADMINISTRATION

Private area for Moderators and students working on special projects.

Continue to Other Issues...

[This message was edited by Casey on February 07, 2003 at 11:07 AM.]