Q: I am so worried about losing my memory and am starting to see some signs. What can I do to help my memory?
A: Most people have some level of fear of developing dementia and having memory loss as they age. This fear is so prevalent because people associate memory loss with a loss of independence, and a loss of purpose. This fear can sometimes cause people to not get assessed or diagnosed, when the reality is that even with a diagnosis there is still much you can do to help yourself.
You can learn ways to make the most of your memory, you can do things to slow progression when possible, and you can take the time to plan for your future.
First, it is important to understand if you are having signs of regular age-related memory changes or a larger issue like a dementia diagnosis. An assessment from the doctor is a good place to start. The doctor can also take the time to assess and rule out any physical issues that may affect your memory, such as vitamin deficiency, a medication change or another health issue.
The Alzheimer’s Association provides education on the ten warning signs of dementia. There is a normal slowing in memory recall as we age but these signs do not cause significant enough memory loss to disrupt your daily life.
For example, a warning sign of dementia may be trouble completing normal daily tasks like creating and following a grocery list or driving to a familiar location. However, occasionally needing help recording a show or making a mistake on a bill may be a normal age-related change.
You can learn more about the ten signs at https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs
Once you understand more about your memory loss then you can focus on what you can do to improve your brain health. There are a lot of lifestyle changes that can help preserve the memory you have and maintain a healthy life. It is important to be socially and mentally active, and to exercise, eat well and get enough rest. While we may already know these are healthy choices, there are almost always ways we can improve on them and subsequently decrease our risk of memory loss.
There is so much research on the topic of brain health and memory loss. Senior Concerns is presenting a seminar called Memory Matters: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and How to Stay Ahead. This will be presented in a hybrid manner so you can register to attend online via Zoom or in person at Senior Concerns in Thousand Oaks. It takes place on Tuesday, October 14th at 3pm. The seminar will be presented by Dr. Jena Kravitz, a licensed clinical psychologist in California who specializes in clinical neuropsychological assessment and psychodiagnostics evaluations.
She will cover what is normal memory loss and what is not, as well as discuss practical lifestyle changes that are proven to support brain health. You can learn more or register at https://www.seniorconcerns.org/programs/seminars/ or by calling 805-497-0189.
Senior Concerns is also starting a new four-week class geared for people who have early memory loss or concerns about memory loss. It is called, Memory Matters: An Education and Support Group for People Experiencing Changes in Memory and Cognition. The class will combine aspects of a support group with practical education and tips on ways to preserve memory and cope with any changes.
The class has a fee of $40 for the full series and will run from October 29th through November 19th on Wednesdays from 10:30am until noon, in person at Senior concerns in Thousand Oaks. To learn more call 805-497-0189.
Too many people delay taking action, being assessed, and talking about their memory concerns. Do not let stigma or fear prevent you from seeking help and taking proactive steps to improve your overall health and quality of life.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
