Caring for Someone with Memory Loss
Caring for Someone with Memory Loss
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is an illness that changes the brain. It causes people to be unable to remember, think, use good judgement and have trouble taking care of themselves. Unfortunately, over time, as the disease gets worse, they need more and more help. Sometimes caring for someone with memory loss can be rewarding because you are providing love and comfort. At other times it can be overwhelming. The change can happen over long periods of time, making you unaware of how much you have taken on.
Sometimes you may not know exactly how to care for a person with AD and you are not alone. Each day brings new challenges. There are three main stages of AD – mild, moderate and severe. To learn more about these stages talk with your doctor or other health care provider who is able to help you understand the disease and gain helpful resources.
Some tips for helping your loved one:
- A person with AD may suffer changes of communication skills, personality and behavior
- It is important to listen, even if the person does not want to talk about the changes he or she is facing
- Be as sensitive and patient as possible
- Do not correct the person every time he or she forgets something
- Always remember this is a very big struggle for the person suffering
- Help the person find words to express their thoughts and feelings
For additional information regarding caring for someone with memory loss, visit www.alz.org