Memory Decline in the Elderly: What to Do Next?

Could you please provide more details about the symptoms?

Doctor, my grandmother has started showing signs of memory decline over the past six months.
She is currently 84 years old, and since I am the only one at home with her, I can clearly notice that she seems to be getting forgetful.
She misplaces money and keys, sometimes just sits blankly on the stairs, and has forgotten all her phone numbers.
I sometimes communicate with her in Japanese, and she still understands.
However, now she even forgets what we just talked about a minute ago.
What should I do? Which department should I visit at the hospital? I noticed that there is no "Geriatrics" department in the local hospitals.

theolin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/01/16

Dr. Ouyang Wenzhen reply Geriatrics

Hello Theolin, your mother is experiencing gradual memory decline and is already 84 years old, which makes it very likely that she has Alzheimer's disease, similar to former President Reagan.
Currently, there are medications available for treatment, and after an evaluation by a psychiatrist or neurologist, you can apply for a catastrophic illness card through the National Health Insurance, which would waive the co-payment.
Please seek treatment as soon as possible.
Our hospital (Chia-Nan Psychiatric Hospital, Department of Geriatric Psychiatry) has outpatient services on Tuesdays and Fridays.
If you are at another hospital, you can consult a neurologist, who can also prescribe these types of medications.
Since geriatrics is a medical specialty that has only been established in the past two years, it is not widely available.
However, both Tainan City Hospital and Tainan Hospital of the Health Bureau have geriatrics departments (such as Dr.
Yeh Hong-Ming at Tainan City Hospital or Dr.
Lin Pei-Fen at Tainan Hospital), but the geriatrics department cannot prescribe new medications for Alzheimer's disease.

Reply Date: 2004/01/16

More Info

Memory decline in the elderly is a common concern, especially as individuals age. Your observations about your grandmother's memory issues, such as misplacing items, forgetting phone numbers, and struggling to recall recent conversations, are indeed indicative of cognitive decline. However, it's important to approach this situation with a comprehensive understanding of the potential causes and the appropriate steps to take.

Firstly, it's crucial to differentiate between normal age-related memory changes and more serious conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. While some forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, significant memory loss that interferes with daily life is not. The symptoms you describe, particularly her difficulty remembering recent conversations, could suggest a more serious cognitive impairment.

Given your grandmother's age (84 years old) and the symptoms you've noted, it would be advisable to seek a professional evaluation. You should consider visiting a neurologist or a geriatrician, as these specialists are trained to assess cognitive function and can provide a thorough evaluation. If your local hospitals do not have a dedicated geriatric department, a general neurology or psychiatry department can also be a good starting point. They can conduct cognitive assessments, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or other neuropsychological tests, to evaluate her memory and cognitive abilities.

In addition to medical evaluation, it is also important to consider other factors that could be contributing to her memory decline. For instance, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances can significantly impact cognitive function. If your grandmother is experiencing any of these issues, addressing them may help improve her memory. Furthermore, certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies (especially B12), and infections, can also lead to cognitive changes. A comprehensive medical workup can help identify any underlying issues.

In terms of immediate support for your grandmother, there are several strategies you can implement to help her manage her memory decline:
1. Establish Routines: Creating a structured daily routine can help her remember tasks and reduce confusion. Consistency is key.

2. Use Memory Aids: Encourage her to use lists, calendars, and reminders. Labeling items around the house can also help her remember where things are.

3. Engage in Cognitive Activities: Encourage her to participate in activities that stimulate her brain, such as puzzles, reading, or even learning a new skill. Social interaction is also beneficial, so consider involving her in community activities or family gatherings.

4. Maintain Physical Health: Regular physical activity can improve overall brain health. Encourage her to engage in light exercises, such as walking or stretching, as appropriate for her health status.

5. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids can support brain health. Foods like fish, nuts, and leafy greens are particularly beneficial.

6. Ensure Adequate Sleep: Sleep is crucial for cognitive function. Ensure she has a comfortable sleeping environment and encourage good sleep hygiene practices.

7. Stay Patient and Supportive: Memory decline can be frustrating for both the individual and their caregivers. Approach her with patience and understanding, and provide emotional support.

In conclusion, while memory decline in the elderly can be concerning, there are steps you can take to support your grandmother and improve her quality of life. Seeking a professional evaluation is essential to determine the underlying causes of her memory issues and to develop an appropriate care plan. In the meantime, implementing supportive strategies can help her navigate daily challenges more effectively.

Similar Q&A

Memory Decline in Seniors: Tests and Specialist Clinics to Consider

My father recently told me that he has been experiencing cognitive decline, with poor short-term memory and sometimes forgetting how to navigate nearby streets. What tests can be done regarding memory deterioration? Which department should we consult in the outpatient clinic? Tha...

Dr. Liang Yinpan reply Geriatrics
Hello Mr. Wang: Elderly individuals experiencing memory decline should consult a neurologist. A comprehensive brain function assessment and dementia testing can help identify the underlying causes of the decline, allowing for targeted treatment. Wishing your father a swift recove...

Addressing Cognitive Decline in Seniors: A Guide for Caregivers

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my grandmother. Due to her long-term lack of outdoor activity and minimal exercise, she is now experiencing cognitive decline and doesn't even chew her food anymore. What should we do now? I am worried that she might lose her swallowi...

Dr. Ouyang Wenzhen reply Geriatrics
Hello Annie, this is Dr. Chang. Since Dr. Ouyang has left our hospital, I will be responding to your inquiry. Based on your description, I would recommend that you find a way to take your family member to seek medical attention. It is essential to first assess their physical and ...

Stroke and Memory Loss: Understanding Cognitive Decline in Seniors

Hello, doctor. My father is 61 years old and has had two minor strokes. He can move by himself, but it is somewhat inconvenient for him. He often doesn't know what to do at home and ends up lying in bed listening to the radio. Recently, he has started to forget things, such ...

Dr. Li Renqin reply Psychiatry
Hello, dear friend! Based on the content of your letter, there is a strong suspicion that your father may be experiencing symptoms of dementia. Many elderly individuals may forget daily tasks (such as taking medication), which can also be observed in some younger individuals who ...

Addressing Memory Loss, Insomnia, and Depression in Seniors

Hello, my mother is 69 years old and has recently started experiencing severe memory decline symptoms, along with insomnia and significantly slowed walking. Last year, she had an episode of involuntary twitching at the corner of her mouth, which improved after medical treatment a...

Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, based on the symptoms mentioned by the internet user regarding their mother, it is recommended to first consult a neurologist to rule out conditions such as Parkinson's disease or early-stage dementia. Late-life depression is also a frequ...