Many seniors and their family caregivers worry that memory loss is a sign of dementia, but occasional forgetfulness is more often just a normal part of aging. If your aging family member sometimes forgets a word or misplaces his or her car keys, there’s usually no cause for concern. Short-term memory loss that comes on suddenly, however, can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Miami families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Here are a few warning signs to look out for.
Signs of Serious Memory Problems
Persistent short-term memory loss makes it difficult for older adults to accomplish everyday tasks. Signs your loved one may have a serious problem include:
- Repeating the same question over and over
- Being unable to follow simple directions
- Getting lost in familiar locations
- Getting confused about time and dates
- Storing items in inappropriate places
- Using the wrong words for common household items
Caring for senior loved ones can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in home care, but this challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Family caregivers can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for the help they need. We provide high-quality in-home care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care.
Causes of Sudden Memory Loss
From mental health issues and thyroid conditions to poor diet and certain medications, many medical conditions can lead to instances of forgetfulness and memory loss. Problems with memory can also be a sign of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Because memories are created in and retrieved from many areas of the brain, any brain injury can cause sudden short-term memory loss, including:
- Stroke
- Minor head trauma
- Brain infection
- Brain tumor
- Oxygen deprivation
Many of the medical conditions associated with short-term memory loss can be successfully treated and even reversed when addressed in a timely fashion. Getting a prompt and accurate diagnosis from a medical professional is the key to receiving appropriate care. Although mild cognitive impairment sometimes progresses to dementia, many seniors are able to live active and fulfilling lives despite occasional problems with memory.
If your loved one is experiencing memory loss due to an age-related condition such as dementia, help is just a phone call away. For trusted and reliable dementia care, Miami families can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. We are experts in caring for seniors with memory-related conditions, our caregivers are available 24/7, and all of our dementia care programs are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. For reliable in-home care services, contact us today.
