Marjorie P. Lee Senior Living Blog

Age-related memory loss is disconcerting enough. Memory loss due to Alzheimer's or other dementia disorders is just plain devastating. And either is a source of heartbreak for seniors, their partners and spouses and their families.

Memory loss doesn't end relationships. An elder might not be able to remember all the good moments you've had together over the years, and might not be able to form new, lasting memories, but there are certainly good times still to be had.

Still, it's a difficult thing for seniors and their partners or caregivers to grapple with. So, today, with Valentine's Day approaching, let's talk about what families and seniors living in Cincinnati and elsewhere can do to keep love alive, even as memories fade.

The wonderful thing about science is that it's never finished. The pursuit of knowledge never stops. When one discovery is made, it leads to many others. It's a never-ending search.

We know that there's plenty to learn about Alzheimer's dementia, age-related memory loss, and other cognitive disorders. Frankly, we've barely scratched the surface. But scratching at it we are.

So, just what is the difference between assisted living and memory care?

Our memory care experts here at Marjorie P. Lee (MPL) are often asked this question. Usually, it's by people whose senior loved ones have recently been diagnosed with dementia or begun to show signs of memory loss, who are considering placement and don't know what care options are available to them in Cincinnati.

For family caregivers of seniors with dementia or age-related memory loss, the winter holidays can be an especially stressful time. In addition to planning get-togethers, shopping and keeping up with all the holiday preparations, there are nagging worries.

What happens if Dad has a meltdown at dinner? What if Mom has difficulty keeping names straight? What gift do you give a parent with dementia?

There's also sometimes a sadness that creeps in because many of us feel particularly nostalgic around this time of year. We look back on holidays past — when we were children, when our parents were young and strong — and we wish that those days weren't long gone.

So, what are some tips for coping with a loved one's memory loss during the holidays? Never fear: we have them for you. Read on.

It can be disconcerting to realize you have a gap in your memory or to notice it in someone you love.

That’s because the first thing most people think of when they notice an older person is having difficulty remembering things is probably Alzheimer’s disease — especially given the relatively high profile the disease has had over the past several decades.

You’re in a rush, stressed out and running late on an already-busy day. Now, you’re on your way back out the door, thinking about all the errands you still need to run and, suddenly, you can’t remember where you left your keys. You don’t even remember the last time you had them.

Is it overtired and unable to think clearly? Or is it actual memory loss? When is it normal, age-related memory loss, versus a sign of a stroke, early-onset dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?

There are many claims out there — on click-bait websites, on Facebook and Twitter, in radio advertising — about so-called “miracle” products that prevent age-related memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

They’re all false. Every single last one of them.

If your elderly loved one is living with advanced age-related dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and will soon need to move into residential memory care, like the Kirby Household at Marjorie P. Lee, how can you help to ease the move into his or her new home?

As the primary caregiver, you’re going to be juggling a lot during your loved one’s move. It’s critically important that you put together a transition plan so that you can keep everything running smooth.

Although there are quite a few myths about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care floating around out there, it’s no myth that people who engage in active aging and lifelong learning seem to be at less risk of developing early memory loss.

That’s why the memory care experts here at Marjorie P. Lee urge all seniors to stay sharp by reading, socializing, and remaining as active as possible. Simply put, there’s really no such thing as too much mental stimulation.

It can be disconcerting to observe memory changes in an aging parent or loved one.

Noticing someone’s memory loss leaves you worrying. Worrying that your parent or older relative is developing Alzheimer’s or age-related dementia. Worrying that he or she isn’t getting the proper care to preserve memory. Worrying that your loved one might someday wind up in a dangerous situation and won’t be able to help him or herself.