What’s the Link between Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss?

By 9  am on

Connection between Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss in Lincoln, CA

Much is known about Alzheimer’s disease today, yet there’s so much that still feels like a mystery when first facing a diagnosis. People often wonder why memory loss occurs and what can be done to stop it. Learning more about why and how your senior loved one’s memory will slowly change can help you identify ways to help him or her manage the disease.

The Science Behind Memory Loss

For most seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss occurs due to the slow loss of brain cells. Although everyone is different, one part of the brain where this occurs most commonly is the hippocampus. This part of the brain is one of the main areas responsible for the storage of important memories and the ability to recall them. There are also parts of the brain responsible for certain types of memories. Once brain cells die in these areas, you’ll notice other types of symptoms that are still related to your loved one’s memory loss.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading homecare services provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.

Types of Memory that Are Affected

Most people tend to think of memories as remembrances of special experiences in the past. While these make up one type of memory, your loved one also relies on different types of memories to perform procedures, speak, and even enjoy favorite hobbies. Brain cell loss in the part of the brain that affects language may cause your loved one to stumble over words or have difficulty understanding conversations. Your loved one may also have short-term or long-term memory loss. Understanding which types of memory are affected can help you make plans for his or her care.

Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of a highly trained professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Lincoln, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Ways to Help Your Loved One Keep Memories

The good news is you don’t have to stand idly by and watch your loved one’s memories fade. Today’s seniors benefit from taking medications that reduce the severity of their symptoms. Your loved one can also benefit from having regular social interactions with your family and a caregiver who keeps your loved one mentally engaged. Take time to talk about the past with your loved one, and play games that challenge his or her ability to recall information. Your loved one can also do things to promote better brain health, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising to keep blood flowing to the brain cells.

How Families Can Manage Emotionally

It’s common for the loved ones of people with Alzheimer’s to feel guilty, angry, or sad that their family members are slowly slipping away. While you know your loved one cares, your parent may eventually reach the point where he or she no longer remembers your history together. Make sure to take care of yourself during this time, and talk to other people who understand the situation. Respite care is an option to help you take a break or visit a counselor as you learn how to work through the challenging emotions that accompany watching loved ones lose their memories.

Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Lincoln Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR BLOG

    Request Free Information or
    Schedule a Free in-Home Consultation