Daily Life
Starting Every Day with Memory Loss: My Story
For most people, waking up in the morning feels like a new beginning. For me, it's more like the start of a new puzzle. Questions get jumbled in my mind: “What month is it? Who is with me? What's going on?” Memory loss can suddenly take away the security of just “being yourself.” But as I begin each day with this feeling of being lost, finding hope and solutions is not impossible. Thanks to the methods I've developed and scientific support over the years, there is a way to live even amidst uncertainty. In this blog post, you'll find daily challenges and practical solutions from the perspective of someone experiencing memory loss.
When the Brain Says 'Stop': What is Memory Loss?
Memory loss (amnesia) is the impairment of the brain's ability to record, store, or recall information. 1 in every 6 people over the age of 65 worldwide are estimated to experience some level of memory issues (World Health Organization). Memory loss can result from neurological diseases like Alzheimer's, trauma, or psychological reasons. In other words, memory loss is not caused by a single reason and everyone’s experience is different.
Symptoms of Memory Loss in Daily Life
Difficulty remembering recent events
Frequently asking the same questions
Losing personal items often
Feeling like you forget familiar people
Struggling with routine tasks
If you notice yourself experiencing one or more of these, I want you to know you’re not alone. Research shows that age-related memory impairment is seen in about 10-12% of the population (Alzheimer's Association).
How Do My Days Go? Loneliness, Fear, and Small Successes
The most exhausting thing about living with memory loss is trying to keep up with those around me. When I meet someone new, I forget their name minutes later. When I can't remember my children's birthdays or my favorite dish, I feel a bit of shame and then sadness inside. Sometimes just hearing my mother’s voice feels like a miracle, sometimes I find myself staring at an old photograph for hours, trying to piece together memories.
Memory loss makes you almost dependent on a journal. But by accepting the difficulties I live with, I’m learning to produce solutions.
What Does Science Say? Management and Treatment Methods for Memory Loss
Currently, while there’s no definitive cure for many types of memory loss, evidence-based methods are implemented to alleviate symptoms and make daily life easier:
Medication: Cholinesterase inhibitors (such as donepezil, rivastigmine, etc.), used especially in some types of dementia like Alzheimer's, can assist with symptom management (Source).
Cognitive Rehabilitation: Cognitive therapies including memory and attention training can support functional memory.
Physical activity: There is evidence that aerobic exercise can increase cognitive capacity by up to 10% (Source).
Social Activity: Participating in at least one social activity per week lowers the risk of memory deterioration by 22% (Source).
Daily Challenges
Bathing and Personal Care
When I get up in the morning, I sometimes can't remember where I put my toothbrush or towel. Sometimes, after a shower, I forget which lotion to use.
Cooking and Nutrition
I have trouble remembering recipes. Leaving the stove on is one of my biggest fears. I frequently mix up the order when preparing a plate or accidentally add salt twice.
Shopping and Money Matters
If I leave my list at home, things get complicated. At the checkout, I can forget which money to hand over and feel embarrassed. Sometimes, it's almost impossible to remember my card’s PIN.
Forgetting People and Events
If I haven't seen friends for a while, I have trouble recognizing them again. Even though I don’t want to hurt anyone in social settings, I feel uneasy when I mix up their names.
Getting Lost at Home
I get upset with myself when I lose my way in my own house. There are times when, on my way to the bathroom, I end up in the kitchen, or I forget which room leads to where.
My Practical Solutions: Effective Coping Strategies for Memory Loss
To improve my quality of life, I want to share with you here some methods I’ve developed myself and some I’ve learned from professionals:
Using a Notebook: I always carry a small notebook with me. I write down important information, dates, the day’s plan, and my grocery list here. Note apps on smartphones have also become an alternative solution.
Creating Routines: Eating at the same times and leaving items in the same places gives me peace of mind. Routines make it easier for my brain to perform automated tasks.
Visual Cues: Small visual reminders, like sticking an important note in the kitchen or hanging the shopping list on the door, make my daily life easier.
Getting Support from Technology: Alarm and calendar apps on my phone remind me of everything from medication times to meeting friends. Digital photo frames keep old memories in sight.
Family and Social Support: I’ve learned to accept help from those around me. Getting support from my family and loved ones keeps my motivation and morale high.
Managing Stress: Meditation and breathing exercises lighten me up when waves of anxiety hit (Source).
Keeping My Brain Active: Doing daily puzzles, listening to stories instead of reading books, or learning new activities a few times a week keeps my cognitive capacity sharp.
Not Avoiding Emotions: Making Peace with Memory Loss
Forgetting sometimes brings an indescribable sense of loneliness. But in that loneliness, I’ve also learned to hold on to small moments. The melody of a favorite song, my son sincerely calling out to me, or being able to finish today’s blog post... All of these remind me that I’m still here and that I have a reality that’s uniquely mine. Scientific studies show that support and acceptance make a significant contribution to mental health and can reduce the risk of depression by up to 40% (Source).
How Do I Explain Memory Loss to Those Around Me?
At first, I was very ashamed, and afraid to engage in groups. Then I discovered that speaking openly creates understanding and empathy in others.
Some phrases have become common for me:
"Sometimes I find it hard to remember names, could you kindly remind me again?"
"Could you explain slowly? It takes me a while to organize my thoughts."
In return, I often received compassion and support. Because it's important to explain that forgetfulness is not a choice. Science also supports that transparent communication reduces anxiety for both the patient and their loved ones (Source).
Living Together: The Role of My Family and Loved Ones
My relationships with my family have changed. Memory loss affects not only me, but also them. Their approaching me with trust creates a great sense of security.
My Suggestions for My Family:
Answering questions with patience
Using clear and understandable sentences
Sharing important plans and appointments in writing
Tolerating my mistakes with a smile
Experts agree that the patient’s quality of life improves with a patient and consistent approach from their family (Source).
8 Tips for Staying Healthy While Living with Memory Loss
Pay Attention to Your Sleep. Quality sleep can have positive effects on memory loss. Seven to eight hours of sleep per day is recommended.
Avoid Stress. High levels of stress and anxiety can trigger forgetfulness. Try yoga or meditation.
Eat a Balanced Diet. A Mediterranean-style diet and foods rich in Omega-3 (like fish and walnuts) can support cognitive health.
Exercise Regularly. At least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity is recommended.
Socialize. Meeting friends and conversations have a positive effect on memory.
Learn New Things. Having a hobby or studying a foreign language keeps the brain fit.
Limit Smoking and Alcohol. Excessive use poses a risk for brain health.
Do Not Neglect Regular Doctor Check-Ups. Stick to your routine.
A Final Word: The Power of Hope in Memory Loss
I can’t remember everything every day, but I don’t let go of my sense of hope. Although memory loss is a serious problem, life is like a journey with no end. Living with my losses, my strengths, and the support of my loved ones gives new meaning to my life. If you too are going through similar experiences, remember that you’re not alone, and that with solutions, love, and scientific support, you can make life easier under any circumstances.
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