Memory loss, refers to an abnormally persistent forgetfulness, especially in regard to past events. Memory loss can be caused by a number of illnesses and conditions, such as Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia.
Memory loss in older adults is commonly attributed to the onset of one or more of these conditions, although the effects can also result from certain medications, trauma, infections, or substance abuse.
While memory loss can result in frequent lapses in short-term memory, patients with this condition can often work around it to maintain happy, functional lives. However, someone experiencing frequent bouts of memory loss should consult a mental health practitioner to determine whether these are a symptoms have another cause.
Depending on the cause for memory loss in seniors, there are several options for treatment that are available. Mental exercises are one such method that can assist patients in recuperating from non-complex cases of memory loss, especially as a result of aging. Strategy games, design projects, learning new skills, and coordination exercises like ballroom dancing can all be instrumental in exercising the brain and avoiding further memory loss in seniors.
At Gagne Behavioral Health Care, we find the cause of memory loss in older adults with comprehensive examinations. In the event of a condition-based mental decline, our team will recommend the appropriate therapy and medications to combat these illnesses.
Upon discovering age-related memory loss, our practitioners can recommend other methods of treatment, management, and even reversal of the symptoms. Whatever the case, our goal is to help identify the cause so that treatment can bring patients the best quality of life possible.
What kind of memory loss is reversible?
There are several causes for memory loss that can be reversed with the right forms of treatment. Causes that can be a source of reversible memory loss include:
How else can I combat age-related memory loss?
There are various recommendations on how to mitigate the effects of memory loss in seniors; most of these recommendations are focused on establishing healthy lifestyle changes.
Such measures include: