If you’re noticing some signs with your senior’s memory that have you co
ncerned, you might not be alone. There are lots of situations that you might see as a caregiver that could point you in the direction of wondering just what might be going on with your senior’s brain. Trying some of these ideas can help you to narrow down what’s happening.
Ask Around to Other People Who Spend Time with Her
Other people who spend time with your senior may have noticed some of the same things you have. You don’t have to go into details with anyone or start a big conversation, but asking if they’ve noticed anything with your senior’s memory might be helpful. This can give you any additional information that her doctor might find useful.
Have a Conversation with Your Senior
It’s also important that you do sit down and talk to your aging family member about whatever has you concerned. The things you’ve noticed may also be situations that have your senior on edge as well. Just because she’s not mentioning them to you, that doesn’t mean she isn’t aware and isn’t concerned. Having an open and loving conversation about whatever is happening can clear the air and help you to know where to go next.
Talk to Your Senior’s Doctor
When your senior is ready, it’s time to talk to her doctor. There are some tests that your senior’s doctor can run that can help to see what’s going on with her cognitive function. There are plenty of reasons for memory loss besides the really scary ones that your elderly family member might not want to talk about. Getting a medical opinion at this point can help immensely.
Put Together a Set of Plans
At this point, you should be able to start putting some plans in place. Your elderly family member might have recommendations from her doctor and there may be things you can do, too. One solution that could be helpful is to hire elderly care providers. They can take over tasks that have become difficult for your senior, giving her a chance to conserve some energy. She may find that as she feels less overwhelmed she also experiences less trouble with memory.
Whether your elderly family member is dealing with true cognitive issues or simply is feeling exhausted, there are solutions you can try out together. Sometimes just knowing she isn’t alone is really all she needs.