Coping With An Aging Parent’s Memory Loss: Four Things To Keep In Mind

Have you considered that one of the biggest complaints about getting older may be the seemingly inevitable memory loss? For some it may be very minimal and for others much more substantial. If your parent may be starting to suffer from memory loss, take a moment to review these four things that you should keep in mind:

Be patient. Although it may be very difficult to do, it can be important to be patient with your parent as he or she struggles with memory loss. Your initial reaction may be to be frustrated that you are forced to repeat yourself constantly, but remember that memory loss is not something that they can control and your parent needs your patience and empathy to make help feel supported and encouraged.

Be consistent. Establishing a routine for your loved one may help with memory loss, as consistent and developed habits can be more difficult to forget. You can make a list of things for your parent to do each day to help him or her remember his or her routine.

Be creative. Come up with different ways to help your loved one be independent and feel in control, despite memory loss. For example, have your parent jot down important facts and events in a notebook that can be carried around. This way, if your parent forgets something, it may be easily remembered when referencing that notebook in his or her pocket.

Be proactive. Encourage your parent to speak with an attorney to make sure there is an estate plan in place. If the memory loss becomes more severe, it may get to the point where your parent is unable to execute legal documents, such as a power of attorney or last will and testament. It may be important to work with an estate planning attorney to execute the appropriate documents and put the appropriate estate plan in place. This plan will help ensure that your parent will be able to protect himself or herself and his or her assets as desired in case his or her condition worsens.

For assistance putting an estate plan and other legal protections in place for a loved one suffering from memory loss, please contact our office to schedule a time to meet.