How To Help Seniors With Memory Problems

The body does many things as it ages, some good and some much less positive. One of the things that can cause the most distress and problems is loss of memory. This isn’t just the memories we formed many years ago (and in fact, in many cases, these are the clearest ones as we get older), but also the ones that help us in everyday life, for example, the memory of where we live or who our families are, and how to perform standard tasks like making a drink or using the phone. 

Memory loss is a big fear for many people, and it’s not hard to see why. It can also be problematic for the family of those people who will experience memory loss, especially as it can be distressing. With that in mind, it’s a good idea for those family members to understand that there are some things they can do to help their loved ones if they are losing their memory. Read on to find out more. 

Get Professional Help

Although there are some things, you can do to help in this situation, in most cases, the best thing you can do is to find professional help, especially if you can’t be there for your loved one all the time and they are living at home. Although a doctor won’t be able to repair the memory loss, professional help in the form of a carer is a good idea. They will be able to ensure your senior loved one is safe and protected if you can’t be there yourself. 

It might be that it just isn’t safe for them to live at home, of course, and this might not be entirely to do with their memory loss but could be related to their physical health or even the fact that they are alone. In this case, checking out assisted living in Massachusetts could be an ideal solution. 

Be Patient 

When spending time with those who are suffering from memory loss, it can be frustrating. You’ll have to repeat yourself a lot, and it can be upsetting if the memory loss is bad enough that they don’t always know quite who you are. 

It’s crucial to remember that this is not being done on purpose. The person you love and care for is still there, and if they don’t know who you are or can’t remember what you just said, it doesn’t mean they are being cruel, so keep that in mind and be patient. You might feel as though you want to scream and shout, especially when memory loss can seem so unfair, but that won’t help and will only make everyone feel bad. Be patient and kind, and make sure you have someone you can talk to, to let your feelings out. 

Communicate Clearly

Memory loss is a strange thing, and sometimes it will hardly appear to be there at all, whereas in other cases, it will be very obvious. No matter what the situation might be, you need to make sure you communicate clearly and concisely. This will make it easier for what you are saying to be understood, even if it’s only temporary. 

You should speak in short sentences and give your loved one time to understand and process what you are saying. Rushing through what you want to say and then moving on to the next thing will confuse them and won’t give you the answers you’re looking for.