Not all memory loss is related to dementia
Memory loss, or hazy memories can be a confusing and sometimes a very frightening experience, whether it happens to you or a loved one. But don't worry—you're not alone in facing it. Knowing more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments can help you make informed decisions about cognitive health. This blog will explore some key factors contributing to memory loss.
As we age, it's natural for some changes in memory to occur. The brain, just like any other part of our body, goes through the aging process. Some degree of memory decline is typical and known as memory impairment. This doesn't mean you'll forget the name of your childhood pet, but you may occasionally struggle to find the right word or remember where you left your keys. While this can be annoying, it's usually not a sign of something serious.
Medical Factors to Consider
- Anxiety and depression can have a huge impact on our memory, can cause difficulties with concentration and retaining new information.
- Either an overreactive or under reactive Thyroid can cause issues with our memory and can cause depression, and as previously discussed, depression can have multiple impact on your memory.
- Trauma to the head can affect the brain in many ways and should be taken very seriously, especially when someone presents with memory loss following any trauma to the head.
- If you are prescribed medication such as sleeping tablets, anti-depressants, muscle relaxants pain medications, or some over the counter medications can cause problems with memory loss and if you are experiencing cognitive impairment, these symptoms need to be discussed with your doctor.
- The use of alcohol and tobacco are well known to have its effects on cognitive function and memory loss by reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches to the brain.
Giving up smoking is difficult, but one of the biggest benefits to your health, your finances, and appearance. When smoking a cigarette, it creates more than 7000 toxic chemicals which can lead to severe illness such as cancer, dementia, heart disease, stroke and other serious diseases. Stop Smoking NI Info have useful information and resources, including the benefits such as how much you can save, for example a twenty cigarette a day smoker could save up to £3931.20 per year.
Influences on lifestyle and environment
- Poor sleep is known to cause sleep deprivation which can lead to fatigue and the ability to recall information.
- A good diet is essential for the brain to receive essential nutrients to function. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins like B1, B12 are crucial for maintaining cognitive health.
- High levels of stress can affect concentration, blood pressure and when your tense, overwhelmed, and distracted over time this can impair memory by affecting the part of the brain (the hippocampus) that's involved in forming new memories.
Symptom of Memory Loss and Knowing When to Seek Help
Short-term memory loss is characterised by difficulties in remembering recent events or details. You might find yourself forgetting conversations that happened just yesterday or struggling to recall what you had for breakfast. These incidents are often the first noticeable signs of memory trouble and can disrupt daily life.
Memory loss doesn’t just affect how you think; it can influence your emotions and behaviour too. Those experiencing memory challenges might become easily frustrated or confused. You may also notice changes in mood or personality. Some people might withdraw from social activities due to embarrassment about their forgetfulness or fear of making mistakes. These changes can be difficult for both the person experiencing them and their loved ones.
In wrapping up our exploration of memory loss, it's important to remember that there are many ways to support and improve cognitive health. From staying physically active to eating a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting foods, these lifestyle choices can be powerful allies in maintaining memory. Understanding these causes and symptoms can be crucial steps toward improvement and treatment. Remember, seeking support or assistance when needed is always a good idea.
My experience in Dementia
My experience working in health and social care goes back over twenty years. During my career, I have worked in the hospital and community settings, providing direct care to people living with dementia, as well as having my own personal experience caring for family members with dementia. I have worked throughout the UK and internationally developing and delivering training programs, presenting at international conferences, and providing advice on dementia-related issues, including advice on indoor/outdoor building design and interiors. I have faced many challenges and learnt from lessons faced, but gaining an MSc in dementia studies in 20016 boosted my awareness of the significant need of people living with dementia, their families, friend's, and carers.
Lets talk about Dementia
Dementia is more than memory loss, its a complex condition that affects both the person living with the condition and their carers/family members. Whether you're a family member, a friend, or a professional carer, learning about dementia and effective strategies can make a world of difference. By embracing counselling and psychotherapy with kindness and empathy, we can create environments that both enhance cognitive health and bring joy to those living with dementia. Let's explore these lessons together.
What is Dementia
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About Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term to describe a group of symptoms, and isn't a single disease but a collective term. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, but there are other types, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and there are also rarer types of dementia that are caused by other diseases and conditions. Dementia has been reported as the leading cause of death in the United Kingdom in the last 10 years.
Northern Ireland is estimated to have 22,700 people living with dementia, which is expected to increase to 43,000 by 2040. Its projected that Northern Ireland will have the largest increase compared to the rest of the United Kingdom. The cost of dementia care in 2020 was estimated to be around £860 million and by 2040 its estimated to be around £2.4 billion.
Testing for Dementia
As discussed previously, memory loss can affect many people due to multiple medical factors, so your health care professional may send you for some tests, these include:
- Blood tests (sometimes urine samples) to check other health conditions that may be causing symptoms, such as thyroid, vitamin deficiencies, and other medical factors explored earlier.
- Mental ability tests - The specialist will see how you answer different types of questions.
- Brain scans - to check for changes in the brain.
- MRI scans - help confirm the type of disease causing a person’s dementia (i.e. Alzheimer's)
- PET scan - to check blood flow to the brain.
- DAT scan - look at how the brain is working, rather than what it looks like. (Lewy body, Parkinson's)
Getting tested for dementia may take some time depending on how long you wait to see a specialist and get assessed. If you are worried about your memory, or you are a friend, family member, or carer who is worried about someone's memory, help and services are available to support you.
SPH Therapy (Shaping Public Health)
SPH Therapy is a private counselling and psychotherapy service who is specialised in providing services to those experiencing memory loss or who are living with dementia can help people to navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of their diagnosis while also providing support to their family members and carers. Read more about me
People with memory loss may be worried about seeing their doctor due to fears or anxieties around a diagnosis. One of the key benefits of counselling is the opportunity to express feelings and fears in a safe and non-judgemental environment. Some people may experience feelings of confusion, frustration, and sadness as a result of the symptoms they are experiencing, and having a professional therapist to talk to can help people process emotions and develop coping strategies.
Therapy can also help people to maintain a sense of identity and purpose. A therapist can work with them to explore interests and passions, helping people to stay engaged in activities of interest and daily living.
Additionally, counselling can be beneficial for family members, and their carers. Caring for someone with any health condition can be stressful, and having access to counselling services can provide much-needed support and guidance. Therapists can help carers and family members develop healthy coping mechanisms and provide strategies for managing stress. It is also crucial to tailor counselling techniques to the individual's specific needs and abilities, taking into account their cognitive impairment and level of awareness.
In conclusion, counselling and psychotherapy can be a valuable resource in helping people navigate the emotional complexities of their condition and maintain a sense of self. By providing support and guidance, counsellors can empower people to live fulfilling and meaningful lives while also offering much-needed support to their family members or carers. If you or someone you know is living with memory loss or dementia, consider contacting SPH Therapy regarding support and services that we offer.
Dementia NI is a local member led charity driving positive change for people living with dementia and provide useful resources
Alzheimer's Society NI - For support and information, call the Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
For the Alzheimer's Society NI team, call 028 9066 4100.
Useful Factsheets designed to support and inform anyone affected by dementia.
Age NI - Call 028 9024 5729 They provide companionship, advice and support for older people
Carers Northern Ireland Call 02890 439 843 provide information, advice and support for carers.
TIDE - Together In Dementia Everyday Tide works side by side with carers to ensure that their voices are heard.
Contact SPH Therapy (Shaping Public Health)
Beresford House
2 Beresford Road
Coleraine
BT52 1GE
07861148937