The holiday season often brings families together, providing an opportunity to catch up and spend quality time with loved ones. However, these gatherings can sometimes reveal concerning changes in older family members, particularly when it comes to memory and cognitive function.
Here are some tips that I often share with families who may be noticing potential signs of memory loss or early Alzheimer's disease in a loved one:
- Look for Subtle Changes:
Sometimes, early signs can be masked, especially if a spouse is helping to compensate. Pay attention to things like difficulty managing finances, forgetting important dates/appointments, or struggling with familiar tasks.
- Approach the Topic Gently:
There's no easy way to bring up concerns about memory loss but framing it as care and concern rather than criticism can help.
- Offer Practical Support in Non-threatening Ways:
Give your loved one "gifts" that provide assistance, like meal delivery or a medical alert necklace disguised as stylish jewelry. This allows you to put some support in place without making your loved one feel incapable.
- Encourage a Medical evaluation:
A thorough check-up can rule out treatable causes of memory issues and provide a baseline if there are ongoing concerns.
- Look into Local Resources:
Senior centers, adult day programs, and support groups can provide engaging activities and connections. These are often underutilized but valuable resources.
- Consider Safety First:
If there are immediate safety concerns, like wandering or inability to manage medications properly, more urgent intervention may be needed. Driving is also a significant safety concern and often one of the most difficult to resolve. Enlisting the advice of a medical professional can help.
- Plan Ahead:
Have conversations about future care preferences, advance directives, and power of attorney while your loved one can still participate in decision-making.
- Take Care of Yourself, too:
Caregiving is stressful, so seek caregiver support groups and respite options to avoid burnout.
- Know You're Not Alone:
Many families are navigating similar challenges. Contact local Alzheimer's organizations, memory clinics, or geriatric care managers for guidance.
- Approach the Journey with Compassion:
Remember, your loved one may be frightened or in denial about changes they're experiencing. Patience and empathy go a long way.
Seeking Support
Caring for someone with dementia poses unique challenges during the holidays. Making adaptations and utilizing support tools can help ease stress and maintain the joy and meaning of the season. With some planning and creativity, you can find ways to celebrate that comfort your loved one and make new positive memories together.
If you have concerns about a loved one's memory or cognitive function, don't hesitate to contact your local memory clinic or Alzheimer's organization for resources and support. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in the quality of life for the individual and their family.
You and your loved one may also consider seeing if he or she qualifies to take part in research. There are a multitude of studies and clinical trials focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia here at the Memory and Aging Program.
Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry by visiting: https://www.butler.org/memory/registry.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not serve as medical advice, consultation, or diagnosis. If you have a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider, or seek immediate medical treatment.