Memory Loss

Memory loss can be a normal sign of aging; we all forget some things as we get older. If memory loss is limited to forgetting words occasionally, losing car keys or forgetting small appointments, this may not be cause for concern. If you notice your mom or dad getting increasingly forgetful of critical or everyday things, this may be cause for concern¹.

It's not always a sign of Alzheimer's Disease

Memory loss can be caused by aging, and exacerbated by other factors that couple with aging. Other factors that can increase memory loss include depression and other health problems, ranging in seriousness from excessive use of alcohol to brain tumors. There are also other types of dementia (with symptoms including memory loss) similar to Alzheimer's Disease, that are in fact treatable and reversible.

Real reasons for concern

If you tell your parents something one day and they forget it the very next this may be more serious. Other more concerning manifestations of memory loss are getting lost in familiar neighbourhoods and forgetting very common words. There are several typical "turning point situations" where families definitely need to become serious about the possibility that their elderly loved one may be exhibiting signs of Alzheimer's or related dementias.

A fuller list of worrying manifestations related to memory loss is as follows:

Disorientation while driving or walking in familiar places. Getting lost close to home, in a familiar neighbourhood, is one of the surest signs of the onset of something serious.
Turning the stove on and forgetting about it. If this happens with any regularity, or if a dangerous situation has arisen, this can be cause to take mom or dad to a doctor.
Forgetting simple words that are used every day, or notably odd problems with words, such as inventing new words for common things (e.g. calling a clock "the wall time")
Sundown Syndrome, especially if mom or dad has uncontrolled angry outbursts.
Incontinence. There are several classes of this condition: urge incontinence (not related to stress or a lack of mobility) can absolutely be a sign that something serious is going wrong with your mom or dad. Any incontinence should receive medical attention.
Losing weight can be a sign that they are, in fact, forgetting to eat.
Behaviour repetitions that indicate a loss of short term memory. This can include calling repeatedly or asking the same question repeatedly when the answer ought to have been remembered.
Difficulty performing simple tasks they ought to be familiar with.
Impaired judgement based on not recognizing typical needs. An example of this is forgetting to put on a coat when it is clearly too cold out.
Forgetting scheduled items regularly
Putting things in strange places (e.g. sugar bowl in the freezer)
Forgetting oft-used or very familiar names, such as pets, grandchildren or children.
Withdrawal due to the need to hide confusion.

These are all serious signs that you need to get medical help for your aging parent.

Be aware that your aging loved one may be embarrassed about this loss of memory and may not report it honestly due to embarrassment. This embarrassment or evasion can delay proper diagnosis. In turn, this can delay proper interventions, including therapies and drugs that can inhibit the disease's development. As is well known, drug interventions in Alzheimer's care are more effective earlier on.

If checking into these symptoms leads to a diagnosis, or if you see an increased manifestation of these symptoms in a parent already diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, this may be time to start investigating Alzheimer's care facilities or home health services near you.

If you have concerns, it is best to discuss things with parents when you yourself are at your absolute calmest. Avoid confrontational language or accusatory tones. Get the opinion of a medical expert. There are other explanations for memory loss including simply aging.

¹helpguide.org/../whats-causing-your-memory-loss

List of memory care communities

The Briton House

720 Mt. Pleasant Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 2N7

Family-owned and operated, the Briton House is dedicated to the highest standards of service. Offering a full continuum of care, a variety of amenities and suites, home-cooked meals, and a 15,000 sq. ft. indoor garden.

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Carp Commons Retirement Village

458 Donald B. Munro Drive, Carp, Ontario, K0A 1L0

One visit to Carp Commons Retirement Village and you’ll see the difference in terms of amenities, food, services, programs, and the little touches that make it feel like home.

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The Village Langley

3920 198th Street, Langley, British Columbia, V3A1E1

We believe that the desire for fulfillment and living a life with purpose does not diminish with a diagnosis of dementia. We focus on the possibilities of each person, supporting each to live with laughter, love and joy.

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Holland Gardens

552 Holland St W, Bradford, Ontario, L3Z 4H3

Located in the heart of a vibrant community, Holland Gardens is the perfect place to live, laugh and enjoy life. An exciting community offering a luxurious resort lifestyle, an ideal place for inspired senior living.

[View Profile] Virtual tour available

Credit River

175 Rutledge Rd., Mississauga, Ontario, L5M 0X7

Credit River is a 6-storey condo style residence, with an array of well-appointed suite styles to choose from and our highly-skilled health care professionals are available around the clock if you need them.

[View Profile] Virtual tour available

Wintergreene Estates

4950 Pasqua Street, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 7L2

At Wintergreene you'll discover a combination of independence, privacy, activities, health and wellness programs & friendly companionship to savour throughout your retirement.

[View Profile] Virtual tour available

The Shores of Port Credit

280 Lakeshore Rd. W., Mississauga, Ontario, L5H 0A5

The Shores is designed for vibrant living with the highest quality of personal care. Amenities include pool, fitness & exercise club, restaurant, bistro & cafe, a golf simulator lounge & wine cellar.

Memory Loss

List of memory care communities

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