Learning About Memory Loss

What causes memory loss?

Memory loss can be caused by many things, including:

• Aging.
• Illnesses, such as certain infections.
• Health problems (such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or a brain tumor).
• Trauma to the brain (like from an injury or a stroke).
• Some medicines.
• The effects of some treatments for health problems (for example, chemotherapy treatment for cancer).
• Substance use.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How is memory loss treated?

Treatments for memory loss depend on what's causing it. Treatments may include:

• First treating any problems that may be causing the memory loss (such as a blood clot or substance use disorder).
• Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Some medicines (for people who have certain conditions causing the memory loss).
• A healthy lifestyle (such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and limiting stress).

It's important to remember that while some types of memory loss are temporary—which means they are more treatable—others types are permanent. With permanent memory loss, or memory loss that will get worse over time, the goals of treatment are to stay healthy, slow the progress of memory loss, and continue to enjoy a good quality of life.

How can you care for yourself when you have memory loss?

Living with memory loss can be hard. Every day may be different, and some days may be harder than others. But you're still you. And there are things you can do to help you live well with memory loss. Here are some tips.

• Find ways to reduce stress. You could try things like listening to music, doing yoga, spending time outdoors, or doing art.
• Try to get enough sleep each night. And do what you can to make sure you get good-quality sleep.
• Use tools to help you stay organized and keep track of information. For example:
  • Use calendars, a daily planner, or a phone app to keep track of plans or activities.
  • Use lists, notes, or devices for reminders.
  • Write down important numbers and passwords and keep them in a safe place, or use a password manager app.
• Try to keep a routine. For example, put your keys on the same hook every time you come in the door, and leave your reading glasses on the same table every time you take them off.
• Do activities that challenge your brain. You could try playing board games, doing crosswords puzzles, or reading books. But remember that it's important to take time to rest your brain too, especially if you're recovering from an injury or trauma to the brain.

How can you support someone who has memory loss?

Different people will need different kinds of support. If you have a friend or a family member with memory loss, the best way to find out what will help them the most is by talking with the person, their close family members, or their doctor. Some people may need very practical support, like help getting to and from appointments, or support with some everyday tasks. Other people may need support that's more emotional in nature.

For anyone with memory loss, these tips can help:

• Be patient, and be prepared to say things more than once.
• Use gentle reminders when necessary, and in a way that doesn't embarrass the person.
• Remember that people with memory loss are often aware that they forget things, and that can be distressing.
• Be reassuring and calm.
• Break tasks down into simple steps.
• Write down instructions or reminders, if you think it helps.
• If you're a caregiver, take care of yourself too. It might be hard to remember to put yourself first sometimes, but it's important. Make time for activities that give you rest or help you feel recharged.