Something Should be Done About Grandma Ruthie
By Cary Stauffacher Okoro
Molten Blue Pictures

A moving and unsettling portrait of the filmmaker's family as they struggle to deal with her 85-year-old grandmother's deteriorating mental condition due to Alzheimer's disease. Though still physically healthy, Ruth Hammer no longer can be relied on to bathe and feed herself, or even to remember where and with whom she is. Her children live out of town, and a series of compassionate caregivers find themselves unable to deal with her growing disorientation. Yet Ruthie refuses to leave her long time home, and the family must confront the necessity of medicating her against her will and, eventually, of forcibly moving her to a long-term care facility. This program explores the wrenching impact of loss of autonomy, and the unresolved complications that are created for a family trying to care for a loved one who may resist and resent their caring.

54 minutes
© 1993
Purchase $149 DVD
Order No. QA-122
ISBN (DVD) 1-57295-706-6

Reviews
"A full, balanced view of caregiving, of great use in discussions for caregivers and professionals." The Gerontologist

Awards & Conference Screenings
Margaret Mead Film Festival
American Psychiatric Association

Related Films
He's Doing This to Spite Me: In this frank video, three caregivers openly share their experiences of conflict and frustration in interactions with their loved one who has dementia. These scenes are integrated with comments and guidance from professionals in dementia care.

Caring...Sharing: Explores the frustrations, fears, loneliness, anger and guilt — as well as the moments of joy — experienced by those who care for loved ones with Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimers Care Series: This three-part series addresses common but often misunderstood behaviors of patients with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. With the methods of interaction and intervention presented, caregivers can redirect and defuse these behaviors while keeping patients' dignity intact.

The Way Home: This moving documentary introduces a variety of elders who are trying to find the best possible living situation for themselves or for their loved ones during their "golden years."

To rent or purchase this film, please visit the Icarus Films website

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