How to Support Your Loved One With Memory Loss

You watch as your loved one begins their journey into dementia. You’re surprised by the extent and speed at which they’re losing their memories. And you’re determined to help them every step of the way, making the most of the time they have left.

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, which is the primary contributor to dementia. This number doesn’t include the millions of concerned family members who are trying to support their loved ones during this challenging decline.

At Gill Neuroscience, board-certified neurologist Dr. Paul Gill and our team have a good deal of experience helping patients and their families navigate dementia. Here, we share some key things we’ve learned along the way about supporting a loved one with memory loss.

Focus less on memory loss and more on time together

Your loved one’s memory loss is progressive and will only get worse as time goes on. A good rule of thumb heading in is to take the focus off of the memory loss and aim for simply being present and enjoying their company.

For example, if you know your loved one loves cooking, work together to make dinner, which gives you plenty to talk about in real time. Or spend some time gardening.

Staying present can help both of you enjoy one another without the frustration of trying to remember things.

Don’t linger on memory retrieval

If your loved one is really struggling to remember a place, event, or date, be patient and give them space to retrieve their memories. But if you see that they’re starting to struggle and get agitated, change the subject and talk about something that doesn’t require memory.

Keep up routines

Routines are fantastic tools for people with memory loss. Get your loved one into as much of a routine as possible so that muscle memory can sometimes take over when their memories falter.

You can also spell out the routine on a board, which can serve as a reminder for your loved one about what they should be doing at different times of the day.

Create a memory box

Create a box with photos of key people and events in your loved one’s life. Or use technology and go with a digital frame that rotates family pictures through. 

In doing this, you keep visual clues front and center, allowing your loved one to hold onto happy memories a little longer.

Get help

This last tip for caregivers of people with dementia is imperative. Memory loss is extremely challenging for everyone involved, so make sure you have the right support and resources.

From our perspective, we can track the neurological side of your loved one’s memory loss and guide you in your care. We can also point you toward support groups and other invaluable resources for caregivers.

If you have questions about supporting your loved one through dementia or if you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, please call our office in Houston, Texas, at 832-912-7777, or use our online request form.