The Making of Memories
Dear Caregivers,
This week we mark Memorial Day, a national holiday where we honor the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The day’s origins come from what used to be called “Decoration Day,” when families would gather each year at a fallen loved one’s grave and bestow flowers, tidy up the grounds, and even have an honoring supper nearby on a picnic blanket. After World War I, the name of the holiday became “Memorial Day,” and it garnered Federal Holiday status in 1971.
Given the spirit of the holiday — memory — it’s also an opportunity for caregivers and their loved ones to reflect on the role that memory plays in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Though each person is affected uniquely, Alzheimer’s typically first impacts “short term” or “working” memory, where someone is unable to recall a conversation or directive from a few minutes ago. As the illness progresses, there can eventually be loss of long-term memory, with the result that your loved one loses the details of their personal history along with losses of “procedural” memory — how to do processes such as using a knife and fork, or tying one’s shoes.
For caregivers, coping with this progression involves establishing familiar and consistent routines in order to reduce any confusion for your loved one, using memory aids such as photos and labeling to help jog your loved one’s memory, employing simple words and phrases in discussions, and providing comfort through reminiscing by looking through old photos, telling stories from the past, and listening to music from their era.
First and foremost, Memorial Day is about honoring the men and women who gave their lives to further the ideals of this great country. But it is also a good time to remember all of those who contributed to our current community of family and friends through the years, such as your loved one, and honoring their memories as well.
Here’s some more insights into the workings of memory:
Living with Memory Loss:
Coping with memory loss can be a time of sadness and frustration for both the person affected and their family, friends, and caregiver. Here are some of the tips shared from others who have faced life with Alzheimer’s disease.
Having a “Senior Moment:” Is It Aging, or Alzheimer’s?
Most of the time, “senior moments” are just that, moments that will pass and not amount to anything more serious. Here's a guide to when you should be more concerned.
Strategies for Success — Memory Tips:
Here are some strategies to help improve your loved one’s memory.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“Without memory, there is no culture. Without memory, there would be no civilization, no society, no future.”
— Elie Wiesel
