7. Focusing on the Past
Individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease can have trouble with their short term memory and recalling events that have happened in the last few days or even weeks. However, they seem to be able to remember events from their past, including childhood. One reason for this is because memories decline in reverse from when they occurred, meaning those furthest away are easiest to recall. Unfortunately as time goes on this disease is likely to interrupt these memories as well, but in the meantime they can provide much needed comfort.
If your loved one mentions something from the past, take the time to discuss it with them while giving reminders of how long ago that time really was. Photos can help further jog the memory and can help the individual feel calm and more in control. However, for individuals who seem to be living in the past, this could be a much more troubling sign. For example, someone who is looking for their spouse that passed away many years ago could begin to feel like they’re losing themselves and their sense of reality. In situations like these, professional care is often necessary to help keep the sufferer calm.
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