How a person with Memory Loss Thinks Differently

How a person with memory loss thinks differently:

• Thinking is slower so understanding takes longer
• Remembering is hard at first, then perhaps impossible
• What is remembered may be different from what you remember
• Understanding explanations is hard.
• Time and sequence of events may be distorted
• Social appropriateness may be lacking
• Organizing and doing tasks in the right order is more difficult
• It is harder to pay attention and concentrate on something
• Memory for recent events is lost before memory for events of the distant past

How you can help by relating differently:

• Say the person’s name first, then start speaking to him.
• Turn off background noises when having a conversation.
• Maintain his attention; use eye contact.
• Speak slower and simpler; avoid complex concepts.
• Stay on one subject; avoid switching the subject mid-sentence.
• Avoid long explanations; e.g., why he must do something.
• Avoid questions asking What? Who? When? & especially Why? Use questions that can be answered ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
• Repeat information as necessary.
• Apologize if you’ve expected too much or been rushed.
• Encourage participation in family life; this gives life meaning.
• Go slowly when doing something & do it together if you can.
• Do not correct him if he is wrong; do not argue with what he thinks is true.
• Treat him with respect. He needs to know that he is important to you.
• Understand that his behavior is his way of staying in touch with what is going on to feel in control of his life.


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