When a loved one forgets how to do daily activities or has trouble learning new things, he may be experiencing memory loss due to Alzheimer's, dementia or the natural process of aging. Caring for a loved one with memory loss can be a challenge when the responsibility comes without time to prepare. Learn how to cope to make the process more manageable for you and your loved one.
Step 1
Face the situation. Denial is natural when a loved one's memory declines, but the process of coping begins with accepting the changes and giving yourself permission to experience emotions that can range from grief to guilt.
Step 2
Create a long-term plan. Obtain access to your loved one's medical, financial and legal information, as well as the authority to make decisions on her behalf. Your loved one may eventually need full-time care, so decide who will give the care and where it will take place. A doctor's advice is essential.
Step 3
Maintain order. Place items like keys in the same place every time and keep clocks and calendars around the house, according to FamilyDoctor.org. This will allow your loved one to continue making as many decisions as possible, including what to eat and wear.
Step 4
Have fun. Play games with your loved one that you both enjoy, such as checkers or puzzles. Family photo albums can also be ideal for nostalgia or laughs.
Step 5
Make your well-being a priority. Caring for a loved one with memory loss can place
a burden on your job and family. Give yourself time each day for a short walk or your favorite television program.
Step 6
Speak in short sentences. Improve communication with your loved one by conveying the most important information at the beginning of sentences using simple language.
Step 7
Show flexibility. Make your day less challenging by limiting difficult situations. Schedule baths for your loved one every other day rather than daily if these cause stress.
Step 8
Limit the wandering spirit. Family Doctor.org reports that a loved one with memory loss can be prone to wandering away from home if given the chance. Place a sign on the door that reminds her not to leave and ask her to wear a medical bracelet that contains her name, address and medical conditions.
Step 9
Ask for help. Your family members or friends will likely be willing to lend a hand if you give them the opportunity.
Tips and Warnings
- A doctor will be able to determine if a loved one's memory loss is caused by medication and may prescribe another medication that doesn't carry the risk of side effects.
- If your loved one's memory loss is due to dementia, be aware that destroyed brain cells cannot be replaced, although medication may slow progress of the disease. A doctor will be able to discuss treatment options.
Things You'll Need
- Loved one's medical, financial and legal information
- Clock
- Calendar
- Board games
- Medical bracelet
References
- Selfhelp Magazine: Aging--Coping with Age Memory Loss
- Caring.Com: What You Need If You Care for Someone with Alzheimer's
- FamilyDoctor.org: Memory Loss with Aging--What's Normal, What's Not
- Working Caregiver: Giving Seniors Life with Activities for Alzheimer's
- FamilyDoctor.org: Dementia--Info and Advice for Caregivers
