We all forget something from time to time; we are all human. The concern of memory loss becomes significant when it starts to affect daily life and a person’s ability to function.
This change in cognition could signal the development of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. According to the World Health Organization, “worldwide, around 50 million people have dementia, and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year.”
If you notice that your loved one is experiencing memory loss on a level that affects their daily life, it may be time to take action. As a senior living and memory support community in Powder Springs, Georgia, Silver Comet Village wants to help you navigate the early stages of memory loss. Understanding what steps to take and the benefits of creating a memory book will play a key role in your loved one’s long-term health.
Navigating Memory Loss
Speak to a Healthcare Provider
Diagnosing a memory loss condition in the early stages is the most beneficial way to help you navigate treatment and care. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia progress over time, so it is best to understand the diagnosis sooner rather than later.
Additionally, a medical evaluation will set a baseline for your loved one’s overall health and wellness. A doctor will examine your loved one’s mental and physical health, helping you to notice memory loss progression or changes over time.
Research Your Loved One’s Condition
The more you know about your loved one’s condition, the better you are to provide the right care for them. You will have a deeper understanding of what your loved one is going through, as well as what to expect down the road.
Research your loved one’s condition and share what you learn with other family members and those involved in their care, ensuring you are all on the same page.
Develop a Strategy and Care Plan
For anyone who will be involved in your loved one’s care, determine who will be responsible for each aspect of care (medication management, appointments, day-to-day care, etc.).
Because memory loss conditions progress over time, it’s important to discuss all potential outcomes, including professional care services and support. Strategize finances in preparation for paying for these care services should that be the best decision for your family member.
Find Support & Enjoy the Present
As overwhelming as this process may be for you, it is the same or even more overwhelming for your loved one. Do not become impatient as your loved one’s memory loss condition progresses. Support groups or online forums are helpful ways to navigate care, share your thoughts and feelings, and connect with others who have gone through (or are going through) the same situation.
For many of us, the unknown is a primary source of anxiety. The more you research and understand your loved one’s condition, the less anxiety and stress you will feel. Once you know what to expect, you will be better able to cope and enjoy the present.
Creating a Memory Book to Strengthen Memories
A memory book serves as a guide to an individual’s life story and is meant to stimulate their memories. While a simple practice, a memory book can serve as a:
- Way to refocus an individual’s attention during challenging symptoms
- Way to celebrate a person
- Way to connect an individual to the pass
For each of the following, you can include photographs, maps, items, or personalized notes. Areas to highlight in your loved one’s memory book could include:
- Key life events and dates (graduations, weddings, births, anniversaries, etc.)
- Places they’ve lived
- Personality traits, including their likes and dislikes
- Hobbies and interests
- Favorite foods and recipes
- Work history and career accomplishments
- Places they’ve traveled
- Members of the family and other key people in their life
- Pets
At Silver Comet Village, we know that creating family memories is priceless, and the process of creating and building a memory book can serve as a bonding activity for the whole family.
To learn more about our senior living and memory support community in Powder Springs, Georgia, we encourage you to contact a member of our team.