One of the greatest fears among many older adults is memory loss and all of the problems associated with it. And while slight changes naturally take place as we age, there are a number of physical, mental and neurological conditions that lead to forgetfulness and a deterioration in memory. Caring for someone with memory loss can be both rewarding and challenging. Thankfully there are many things that can be done to help them maintain or improve their memory.
What is Memory Loss
Generally speaking, memory loss means the inability to remember names, places, events, or situations over a period of time. Everyday memory loss can be caused by stress, being overwhelmed, a lack of sleep and normal aging. More significant memory loss can be associated with a physical illness, psychological disorder, neurodegenerative condition or certain substances like drugs and alcohol.
Types of Memory Disorders
Most memory disorders develop when parts of the brain become compromised and the ability to store, retain or remember information becomes a problem. Unfortunately, memory disorders affect almost every aspect of life including one’s cognitive abilities, language, problem-solving, social behaviors, and even the ability to perform the simplest of tasks. Memory disorders can also range from mild, to moderate, severe and extreme. Some may be immediate while others are progressive.
Type of memory disorders include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Vascular dementia
- Dementia with Lewy bodies
- Mild cognitive impairment
- Progressive supranuclear palsy
- Parkinson’s disease
- Huntington’s disease
Reversible or Temporary Memory Loss
Some forms of memory loss are short-lived and are reversible when they are diagnosed and treated. Some conditions causing reversible memory loss include depression, drug and alcohol use, normal pressure hydrocephalus, hypothyroidism, infections, and vitamin B-12 deficiency. Medications, minor head trauma or injury, and certain brain diseases can also cause reversible memory loss.
Symptoms to Watch For
Depending upon the type of memory disorder and the unique individual, symptoms of memory loss will vary. For instance, those with Alzheimer’s will experience a long, slow loss of memory over the course of years or decades. Signs of gradual memory loss appear in stages of the disease, with memory becoming progressively worse over time. In frontotemporal dementia, it’s difficult to detect any signs of memory loss early in the disease process.
Symptoms of memory disorders include:
- Confusion
- Inability to learn new information
- Repeating questions or statements
- Language difficulties
- Inability to communicate
- Wandering or getting lost
- Paranoia
- Problems with managing money
- Trouble with reasoning
Diagnosing Memory Loss
If you’re caring for someone with memory loss and they exhibit symptoms like these, it may be time to seek professional medical help, which begins with a diagnosis. You may schedule an appointment to see a general practitioner first and then get a referral to a neurologist. It’s best to be prepared to answer questions during the examination regarding the person’s lifestyle, work habits, personality, medical and family history, and overall health.
Diagnostic tests might include the following:
- Neurological tests
- A physical
- A neurological exam
- Lab tests
- Specialized brain imaging studies
- Neuropsychological testing
Treatments
Once a diagnosis is provided, a treatment plan should be developed and several interventions should be considered to help the individual better handle memory issues. Any treatment should aim to prevent symptoms from worsening, improve overall functioning, and maintain quality of life.
Today, there is a better understanding of memory loss due to a number of conditions. There are newer pharmaceuticals that may be prescribed, as well as a number of nonpharmacological interventions that might help.
Various treatments include:
- Medications
- Cognitive rehabilitation
- Nutritional supplements
- Physical activity and exercise
- Social interaction
- A safe and comfortable environment
The individual with memory loss or a significant memory disorder may be cared for a team of professionals including:
- Neurologists
- Neuropsychologists
- Neurosurgeons
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Occupational therapists
- Physical therapists
- Nurses
- Social workers
Common Sense Ways to Help Someone with Memory Loss
Helping an individual who is experiencing a decline in memory or the beginning of a diagnosed memory disorder due to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or other neurodegenerative disorder involves basic and every day methods, initiated by the caregiver.
Diet and Nutrition – monitoring the person’s diet is a great place to start because excess sugars are associated with cognitive decline and poor memory. Less alcohol is encouraged because it can produce memory problems on its own. What is preferred is a high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods. Last, reduce or eliminate refined carbs which are known to damage memory.
Adding Fish Oil and Other Supplements – fish oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids are associated with numerous health benefits including improving memory and slowing mental decline. Curcumin and cocoa have been found to reduce inflammation in the brain, boost memory and prevent cognitive decline. Other supplements to add include resveratrol, creatine, caffeine, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, and Ginkgo Biloba.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight – numerous studies show a link between obesity and cognitive decline. Being obese can cause changes to memory-associated genes which have a negative effect on the brain.
Exercising and Engaging in Physical Activity – research shows that people who exercise or get some form of regular physical activity have better overall brain health and improved memory. Some studies show an association between exercise and a decreased risk for developing dementia later in life.
Getting Enough Sleep – inadequate sleep has long been known to lead to poor memory. Sleep plays a critical role in memory consolidation in which short-term memories are fortified and transformed into long-term memories.
Engaging in Mental Stimulation – challenging the brain creates new connections between brain cells and may even create new cells altogether. This process is loosely called “plasticity” and also helps with memory. Encourage meditation and mindfulness.
Final Thoughts on Caring For Older Adults with Memory Loss
As we age, our memory may not seem as sharp as it once was. While some decline is normal, memory loss that impairs daily living may be caused by an underlying condition that needs professional attention. Caring for someone with either memory loss or a diagnosed disorder requires special attention to signs and symptoms, receiving medical care and engaging in everyday activities that may slow the decline and improve overall function and quality of life.