Let’s Talk About Memory: How to Identify Signs and Seek Help Memory
Health is critical to our well-being and quality of life.
However, as we age, it’s natural to experience some changes in memory, thinking, or behavior.
While occasional forgetfulness may be part of normal aging, others can be warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
Detecting these changes early can make the difference in accessing an early diagnosis and the ability to receive appropriate support and treatment.
Talking openly about memory concerns and knowing what steps to take is key to maintaining our independence and well-being.
1.Recognize Changes in Memory, Thinking, or Behavior
It’s important to be alert to any changes in our memory or in the way we think or act.
Ask yourself: Have I noticed frequent forgetfulness? Do I struggle to recall recent information or make decisions?
These signs may be indicative of a health problem.
2.Consider Other Health Factors
Sometimes, memory problems can be related to other medical conditions such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, or depression.
They can also be the result of stress or lifestyle changes.
Evaluating these possibilities can help identify the cause.
3.Educate yourself about the signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias
It is essential to know the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
The Alzheimer’s Association offers online resources at alz.org/10signales to help people recognize the symptoms and understand the benefits of early diagnosis.
4.Listen to others
If someone else has expressed concerns about our memory or behavior, it is important to pay attention.
Sometimes, the changes may be more obvious to those around us.
Has anyone mentioned that they frequently forget things or act differently?
5.Talk to Someone You Trust
Talking to a family member or close friend about your concerns can help you process the situation and find support.
Coping with these changes alone can be challenging, so having a support network is key.
6.Prepare for the Conversation
If you’re worried about broaching the subject, plan what you’re going to say.
Some helpful phrases might be:
“I’ve noticed my memory has changed, and it’s worrying me. Have you noticed anything about me?”
“I’d like to talk to you about some things I’ve been experiencing.”
7.Ask to be accompanied to a medical appointment
It’s a good idea to visit a healthcare professional to assess the situation.
It may be helpful to bring someone you trust for support and to make sure all your questions are answered.
You can say:
“I’d like to see a doctor to understand what’s going on. Could you come with me?”
8.Be Persistent
If your concern isn’t taken seriously in the first conversation, don’t get discouraged.
It may be necessary to talk to different people or professionals until you find the right help.
Write down details about the conversation to better prepare for future discussions.
9.Seek Resources and Support
You are not alone in this process.
The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900) where you can speak with trained professionals.
Additionally, at alz.org/CRF you can find local resources and health professionals who can assist you.
10.Complete the Alzheimer’s Association Form
To support research and community efforts, the Alzheimer’s Association has created a form where you can share information about your experience with memory changes.
This form is a valuable tool for collecting data and improving the resources available to the community.
We invite you to complete it and help raise awareness about the importance of early detection.
A Step Toward Wellness
If you or a loved one is experiencing memory changes, take action today. Getting informed, seeking support, and seeing a healthcare professional are key steps to maintaining your quality of life. You are not alone, and there are resources available to help you at every stage of the process.
If you’ve noticed changes in your memory or that of a loved one, it’s important to take the first step.
The Alzheimer’s Association has developed a tool to help you reflect on these changes and prepare to seek support.
We invite you to complete the form and contribute to the collection of information that may be key to improving the resources available in our community.
