Does it feel like a punch in the gut every time you realize something new your loved one has forgotten? As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, we've learned that memory loss in the early stages is a challenging journey. In the beginning (the early season of the diagnosis), our primary goal is to help our care receivers maintain as much dignity and independence as possible while providing support behind the scenes. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we have four main tips that we'd like to share with you.

Show Notes

Takeaways

In this episode, we're talking about memory loss “in the beginning”. When we say “In the beginning” we mean when you're mostly helping your care receiver manage things (often behind the scenes), while also helping them maintain their independence. 

We offer four tips to help you.

Tip 1: Figure Out What Information They're Struggling to Remember

One of the most effective ways to support your loved one is by identifying what information they're having trouble remembering. This involves careful observation and adapting your approach to help them maintain their dignity and independence.

Tip 2: Understand and Help with What They Can No Longer Do

As the condition progresses, it’s important to adapt tasks your loved one can no longer manage independently.

Tip 3: Get Other People Involved, As Appropriate

Sharing the diagnosis with others can be a sensitive topic, but it's often crucial for both the caregiver and the care receiver.

Tip 4: Watch Out for UTIs - They Can Muddle the Whole Situation

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can significantly impact cognitive function and behavior in people with dementia and there can often be no symptoms except a sudden cognitive decline.

At the beginning it’s hard to get your head around what is happening. You will get through this phase, and your confidence will grow as you learn to handle each new situation. 

Related episodes

3. Communication - in the Beginning: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias / Practical Tips and Candid Conversations

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