Dealing with a family member or loved one with memory impairment can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. Let’s face it: It’s difficult to see a loved one struggle to remember words and experience memory problems. However, memory loss is a very common symptom in elderly people, and it is understandably upsetting.
Signs of memory loss include:
- Forgetting words or being unable to remember the names of common objects
- Asking the same question(s) repeatedly
- Losing items or putting them in the wrong place
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior for no reason
- Frequently getting lost, especially in familiar surroundings
If you notice your family member struggling with any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to enlist the help of a medical professional to assess any memory deficits or cognitive problems your loved one is experiencing.
This guide will help you start a positive conversation with your loved one.
Choose a calm setting
Choose a good time to chat with your loved one and talk in a relaxed, non-pressured setting. Have the talk in familiar surroundings such as your family member’s home. If your loved one is sick or stressed about other pressing health concerns, it’s probably not a good time to have the talk.
Plan conversation starters
If you are even slightly uncomfortable discussing your loved one’s memory loss, it might be hard for you to think of what you want to say. That’s why planning a few conversation-starters is always a good idea. Keep the discussion focused on situations you have noticed. Use “I” statements such as, “I noticed you have been struggling with remembering things, and I want to help.” Your family member won’t feel quite as defensive if you focus on your observations.
Manage your expectations
It’s a wise idea to realize your conversation might not go as planned. In fact, chances are your loved one might feel upset if you talk to them about any memory problems you have noticed.
Provide plenty of support
Your senior family member will likely need plenty of reassurance and support during and after the discussion. Let your loved one know you are there to provide them with the ongoing emotional care they need. The calmer you remain, the more relaxed your loved one will feel. Start the conversation by reassuring your family member that you’re having the discussion because you have concerns about their health and memory loss. Consider bringing a supportive family member with you. This gives you support and helps your loved one realize he or she has relatives who care deeply about them and their health.
Create a positive plan
If your loved one is open to getting help, ask for their input when creating an action plan. This usually means making an appointment with a health care provider or a medical specialist who deals with dementia and other cognitive disorders. Your loved one will feel supported if they know you want to help them find solutions to their memory problems.
Dealing with your loved one’s memory loss doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few simple strategies and a compassionate and open mind, you can help your family member during this challenging time.
Resources:
- Causes of Memory Loss, https://www.webmd.com/brain/memory-loss#1
- Memory Loss and Stroke, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113
- Talking to a Parent About Dementia Symptoms, https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/
