There is so much information about how to take care of elderly people, especially those who have some kind of neurological degenerative condition. However, oftentimes, it can be tough to figure out exactly how to talk to your elderly loved one about their memory loss. You want to make sure that you are approaching your loved one in the correct way to avoid any negative reactions from them.
If your elderly loved one has memory loss, here are some tips that can help out to talk to them.
Paying Attention to the Relationship You Have with Them
If you are going to talk to your elderly loved one about their memory loss, it is important to pay attention to the relationship the two of you have together. For instance, if you have been distant from each other for a long time, it might be best to have someone they are closer with to have the talk about memory loss. This might be a sibling or child of theirs. It could possibly be one of their caregivers, as well.
Let Them Stay in Control
When talking about memory loss, it is important that you let your elderly loved one keep control of their life as much as possible. When you start trying to take over, it is likely that your elderly loved one will become defensive. They might be unwilling to speak with you about their memory loss at all or they might just deny having memory loss. It is important that you bring up this topic honestly and let your loved one know that you are concerned. While you want to be direct with your loved one during this conversation, you don’t want them to think you are trying to force them to do something.
Listening
It is important that you are listening to what your elderly loved one is saying. They will probably have something to say about their memory loss and you should listen. Letting them take the time they need to express what they are thinking can create a more productive conversation. It can be tough to have this conversation, especially for your elderly loved one. They might even be embarrassed or ashamed of their memory loss. Knowing that you are truly listening to them can make your loved one feel a lot better.
These are some of the tips for talking to your elderly loved one about their memory loss. Remember, your elderly loved one has gone most of their life taking care of themselves. Recognizing and admitting that they now need help due to their memory loss can be tough.
Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/memory-forgetfulness-and-aging-whats-normal-and-whats-not
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/noticing-memory-problems-what-do-next