Living with memory loss doesn’t have to be a terrible ordeal These tips can help

Getting older is something nobody looks forward to in life. Sadly it is something that is going to happen whether we like it or not and growing old doesn’t have to be a terrible thing. If you or a loved one is suffering from memory loss there are a number of memory care options available to try and make life easier for them or yourself.

Memory loss happens naturally as we get older the brain no longer holds information quite as good as it used to. This can be frustrating and make you feel ashamed or saddened by the fact that you are not the person you used to be. Memory loss can become scary and dangerous if the person experiencing it is living alone or spends time by themselves frequently. People suffering from memory loss can find themselves lost easily which can create a huge safety issue. Memory loss sufferers can feel scared and frightened and sometimes not remember where they are, what date it is, and what they were heading out to do if they have a momentary lapse while heading out the door. This can be a very scary time for those suffering with memory loss and it needs to be closely monitored by retirement care staff who can aid in memory care options.

Depending on how bad the memory loss is there are certain things that can be done to help aid in the sad situations. If the patient is experiencing severe dementia then there are certain ways you need to speak with them and interact around them to keep them comfortable and calm. When speaking to someone with Alzheimer’s be sure to maintain eye contact and face them while speaking. People with Alzheimer’s can struggle with realizing someone is speaking to them. If they are seated or in a wheel chair don’t talk down to them get on their level by crouching or kneeling. Speak slowly and ask easy questions they can answer with simple answers. Shake their hands or hold their hands to make them feel comfortable. People with Alzheimer’s or dementia can scare easily so walk and move slowly when moving around them. Use natural body language, avoid crossing your arms, and maintain a friendly smile. Staff at a specialized care facility are trained to handle those with dementia and Alzheimer’s but if your new to this whole situation these tips will help keep things calm and stress free. Having these tools to use when dealing with other memory care options is a great step in the right direction. There are over 5 million people in the United States suffering from some form of Alzheimer’s.

If you or someone you love is suffering from mild memory loss there are small things you can do to make life a bit easier each and every day. Leaving reminders all around the house is a great way to make sure things get done and not forgotten. Sticky notes can be your new best friend for someone who is starting to forget certain things. A large whiteboard or chalkboard in the house where the daily routine can be listed is another great option. Avoid moving things around frequently, people with memory loss can have a hard time remembering things they put in the same place everyday if you begin moving things around you could start to confuse them even more. Remember that small things may be forgotten, keys may be lost or locked into vehicles but try to show compassion and understanding and prepare for these situations by cutting spare keys, never letting valuables be handled by the one suffering from memory loss and maintain focus on keeping a safe and happy environment for all. These are just a few memory care options you can try at home with your loved one or even for yourself to make life easier.