Memory Loss is Not Just About

Forgetting

Legacy Village of Provo

4146 N. University Avenue

Provo

UT 84604

(801) 374-3384

Memory loss can disrupt life. In a BBC documentary titled Extreme Love: Dementia, Louis

Theroux discussed how Alzheimer’s and dementia could negatively affect a person’s way of

thinking. Those with the said condition have trouble remembering their own name, as well

as some basics of the English language.

A New World

The sad truth about memory loss is that it not just affects the minds of individuals. It

creates an indifferent and fragmented world that caregivers inadvertently become a part of.

When memory is lost, a person’s personality changes and they may show noticeable

declines in learning, communication, and remembering.

Distressing Behaviors

Those with dementia or Alzheimer’s may develop behaviors that can be distressing to

carers and the family. Affected people may behave out of character, partly because they

are less able to recognize their needs or communicate with others. People stricken with

dementia use repetition as a coping mechanism to counter memory loss. They may repeat

questions and words as a way to engage in normal behavior.

The Heartbreaking Part

When memory loss is severe, it can be

heartbreaking not only for the patient, but also to

the family. In fact, even carers or health

professionals who deal with dementia daily fail to

remember that patients forget things. In fact, the

severity of memory loss may make it impossible

for a healthy and normal brain to accept it in

others.

Experiences are Gone

Dementia can cause a person to forget memories

of experiences, or even how people felt in one

major happening in their lives. Sometimes,

however, loved ones and relatives like to think

that sufferers are capable of feeling emotions

needed for survival. But memory is more than just

a sum total of what an individual remembers. It is

what gives people a capability to learn, adapt from

experiences, and build emotional connections.

Psychologically Absent

When dementia affects people, they can no longer

function normally. The sufferers may be physically

present, but they are mentally and psychologically

absent. The worst part is, loved ones cannot

measure the depth of the disease, so they will

keep wondering how much memory is actually lost

and how they are supposed to grieve.

Keeping Hope Alive

Carers and loved ones may convince themselves to be patient, as things will get better

over time. They may continue hoping that dementia victims may somehow get better,

even though the symptoms only show sign of emptiness.

It is human nature go on and continue offering support to their loved ones with memory

loss. Abandonment is not an option; giving constant attention and care will only be the

way.

Resources:

http://legacyvillageprovo.com/

http://patient.info/doctor/supporting-the-family-of-people-with-dementia

http://www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia/understanding-dementia.htm

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=159