Reversing Memory Loss: Can it Be Done?

Is your elderly loved one having some memory loss? If so, you might instantly start thinking they have Alzheimer’s disease or a form of dementia. While that could be what is going on, do your best not to jump to conclusions. Your elderly loved one could have another issue going on that is causing their memory loss. It is important to look into these things to see if they are the answer. If you aren’t sure, you or a home care provider can have your elderly loved one see their doctor. The doctor can do tests to see what the problem may be.

Anxiety or Depression

Were you aware that anxiety or depression can lead to memory loss? When someone’s mind is not focused, they may often forget things. Sometimes, it is just mild, like forgetting where they sat down their keys, but then remembering a few moments later. Other times, anxiety and depression can cause severe memory loss. If this is what is going on with your elderly loved one, at times, they may not even remember anything they did the day before. If you or a home care provider suspect your elderly loved one has anxiety or depression, talk to them. Find out if this is what is going on and see what can be done to help.

B12 Vitamin Deficiency

Did you know that being deficient in certain vitamins can lead to memory loss? B12 is one of those vitamins. This is a vitamin that is needed to support healthy functions in the brain. You or a home care provider should take a look at the foods your elderly loved one normally eats. If you notice they aren’t eating enough of this vitamin, it could be the reason they are having memory loss. To find out if this is the problem, someone should get your elderly loved one food that have a lot of B12 in them. Then, have them eat these foods every day for a few days to a week. See if it eases or reverses their memory loss. If it does, this was likely the problem.

Dehydration

Did you know that dehydration can affect a person’s health in numerous ways? Yes, it can even lead to memory loss. When a person has moderate to severe dehydration, it can lead to confusion which in turn can cause memory loss. The best way to determine if this is what is happening with your elderly loved one is to ensure they are drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily. If that improves memory, dehydration was likely the culprit.

Conclusion

There are many things, besides Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, that can cause memory loss. It is a matter of getting to the root cause of your elderly loved one’s memory loss. You or a home care provider can start by checking in with your elderly loved one to see if the above causes are the problem. If so, that is great. If you still aren’t sure, take your elderly loved one to see their doctor. Doctors can run tests to start determining the source of memory loss.

Sources
https://www.healthandwellnessalerts.berkeley.edu/topics/reversible-causes-of-memory-loss/