Memory issues might develop due to an illness, a disease, or as a natural part of the aging process. They’re difficult to deal with, regardless of your age. Not only for the person who has them but also for everyone around them. It has an impact on every element of life and creates numerous safety concerns.
While there are no assurances in preventing memory loss or dementia, certain activities may be beneficial. The brain is a magnificent entity that can alter itself through learning and stimulus. Consider these four bits of advice to aid your senior loved ones with memory problems.
1. Ensure Enough Rest
Frustration can be triggered by fatigue, hunger, or thirst. Ascertain that the person with dementia is well fed, hydrated, and gets enough sleep and rest. They should take enough bathroom breaks following this. It may also assist in limiting loud noises and clutter in the space where the patient spends most of their time, as both loud noises and chaos overstimulate patients with dementia.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, Sleep causes changes in the brain that help cement memories. It also aids in transmitting memories from short-term to long-term memory by strengthening connections between brain cells. As a result, the seniors’ new memories are more likely to stick with them.
2. Live In A Safe Environment
Making simple adjustments to a home can help to make it safer. For example, getting rid of excess furniture and unused items. It would be beneficial if things that are no longer in use were to be resolved. Remove any throw rugs or anything that could cause you to trip. Falls can result in damage and disablement. Consider relocating to a region where individuals with comparable problems live. Explore Cedar Creek, where a few boutique houses for people with memory loss can be found. This will assist you because you will be able to communicate your diagnosis with trusted neighbors.
3. Memory Exercises
Practice activities that keep brains working is an essential aspect of aging properly for a longer life span. As the adage goes, “use it or lose it.” Like other muscles in the body, the brain should be treated with caution and exercised regularly to keep it strong and sharp. Here are some creative ideas:
- Shapes and silhouettes
- Memory games requiring groups
- Matching game
- Photo memory game
- Spot the difference
- Sudoku
- Finding items
Learning new abilities, such as playing an instrument or engaging in a pastime, can help to improve memory and cognitive performance. Maintaining your memory by keeping your mind occupied with new tasks is beneficial.
4. Improved Diet
Both the mind and the body benefit from a good diet; Consume foods high in heart- and brain-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines. Olive oil can be used instead of butter. Limit your intake of processed foods. Limit yourself to three drinks per day or seven drinks per week if you drink alcohol. You may need to drink less or not if you have health concerns or take certain drugs.
Talk to a doctor if you’re concerned about your parent’s memory loss, mainly if it’s affecting their ability to accomplish their daily activities or if you see their memory is deteriorating. The doctor will examine you physically and assess your memory and problem-solving skills. Another testing may be required in some cases. Treatment will be determined by what is causing the memory loss.