Changes in memory are one of the most common issues that seniors have to navigate in their golden years. Sometimes, we’re not sure how to best help our loved ones with this issue. Learn how to help someone with memory loss, so you can be there for the people who need you.
How to Help Someone with Memory Loss
Did you know that up to 40 percent of all people will experience some kind of memory loss as a senior? The good news is that for many seniors, memory issues are manageable with some lifestyle changes and some support from their caretakers. Luckily, learning how to help someone with memory loss isn’t complicated. It just takes a little research, some common sense, and some advice from the experts.
Understand the Condition
Some people think that all seniors lose their memory and eventually experience dementia. While memory loss is common in seniors, it’s important to remember that there is a difference between dementia and age-related memory issues:
- Age-related memory loss is caused by natural cognitive changes that all seniors experience. They may have some issues remembering names or events, or occasionally forget things like why they entered a room. While this can be frustrating, it is typically manageable and has a negligible effect on their daily life.
- Dementia is an umbrella term for specific cognitive conditions that affect seniors. Alzheimer’s disease is one of these conditions, but it is not the only one. Between five and eight percent of seniors will experience some form of dementia. Unlike common age-related memory loss, dementia will have a severe and increasing impact on a senior’s daily life.
As you can see, the help that is appropriate in these situations varies drastically. For someone experiencing standard age-related memory loss, some lifestyle changes and additional support might be all they need. For someone dealing with dementia, more significant help is needed. If you aren’t sure what’s going on, speak to your loved one’s doctor and get their opinion.
Make Their Lives Easier
No matter why a senior is experiencing memory loss, there are concrete ways you can help them:
- Help your senior loved one get some exercise every week. Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, which can improve recall.
- Take some time to get them organized. If they struggle with names and dates, a day planner or a small notebook can be a lifesaver. Make sure to help them organize their space as well. The cleaner and more well-organized it is, the easier it will be for them to navigate.
- Mental engagement is also a great way to fight memory loss. Daily games like sudoku or crossword puzzles can stimulate the brain, and they’re fun too.
- Encourage them to improve their sleep hygiene. A lack of sleep can be a common reason for memory issues in seniors. They should be sleeping seven to nine hours a night.
- Make sure they aren’t socially isolated. Social isolation can contribute to memory loss, as well as stress and depression. Offer rides to events, encourage them to take classes, and give them a call just to chat on the phone.
Make a Plan for the Future
If your senior loved one is experiencing normal age-related memory loss, the steps listed above may be all the help they need. However, if they have dementia, it is important to work with them to make a plan that will allow for stronger support in the future. If you need assistance, work with a healthcare professional to identify dementia-specific resources that can help you make decisions.
Memory care can also be a great option for seniors who need intensive memory support. The Shores of Lake Phalen is proud to offer memory care apartments. Safe and secure, these residences are designed to provide comfort for those with memory loss.
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Learning how to support someone with memory loss can be hard, but they’ll be more grateful for your help than you know. Be patient, be kind, and be sure to ask for help from the experts if you need it.
Are you looking for a community that provides a positive, healthy atmosphere where you can live out your golden years? The Shores of Lake Phalen is an assisted living and memory care community in a quiet, peaceful environment in Maplewood, Minnesota. Surrounded by a gorgeous wooded setting between two lakes, our residence offers the accessibility of apartment-style housing with the atmosphere and elegance of a resort. We offer numerous health and safety amenities, fun events and activities, a friendly and accommodating staff, and so much more. Schedule a tour of the community to explore our spacious apartments, elegant dining room, and more. We look forward to hearing from you!