Managing with memory loss
There is no simple cure for memory loss. There are, however, ways of coping and making life a little easier. With a little bit of planning these “strategies” can be helpful.
- Using memory aids
- Adapting your surroundings
- Follow a set routine
- Improving general wellbeing
Memory Aids
- Diaries
- Calendars
- Pill boxes
- Post-it notes
- Pin board/wipe clean memo boards
- Notebooks
- Lists
- Tape recorders/Dictaphone
- Alarm clocks/watches/timers
- Electronic pagers/mobile phones
Adapting your surroundings
- Keep a notepad by the phone, bed, favourite armchair.
- Get a pin board to put important information on.
- Designate a “special place” where you always keep certain objects such as keys, glasses, wallet.
- Attach important objects such as keys/glasses to your body or clothes.
- Label cupboards/wardrobes/containers so you know what is in them, use pictures as well as words.
Improving your general wellbeing
- Focus on your strengths – what you can do, your personal qualities, what your family and friends like about you.
- Develop new enjoyable activities that don’t rely on memory.
- Plan something enjoyable to do everyday – so you have something to look forward to.
- Break down difficult tasks into manageable steps.
- After doing a chore, give yourself a rest or a treat.
- Make sure you get enough sleep, good food and exercise. A healthy body helps the mind!
Other helpful hints
- Keep a diary by the bed and look at it when you wake up. You can check what date it is and what you need to do that day.
- Keep things in the same place (eg. get into a routine of always leaving slippers in the same place when you go to bed).
- Keep keys on the hook near the front door (but not visible from
the door). - Make a list of what you need to get when in town.
- When parking the car, make a conscious effort to note where the car is parked, look for landmarks, have something on the aerial to help you to find it.
- Be forgiving to yourself if you make a mistake, forget something or need some help from time to time.
These tips and ideas have been devised by a psychologist.
