As the specialists point out, memory loss related to health problems does have to receive adequate medical attention and some of them can be treated. As is the case with those caused by the side effects of some medication, lack of vitamin B12, alcoholism, disorders of the thyroid, kidneys or liver, tumors, infections or blood clots in the brain can be the cause. of this memory loss and sometimes lead to dementia. In all these cases, the intervention of a specialist is essential to try to stop the process if possible or reduce the possible consequences.
There are other types of health problems, physical or emotional, that can also cause us to forget things. Stress, anxiety, depression or a traumatic situation can degenerate in this situation and can sometimes be confused with dementia. In general, memory problems caused by these situations are usually temporary and will disappear when the situation that causes them is overcome. In the event that any of these situations last more than two weeks, it is necessary to consult a doctor because we may be facing a more complicated situation that requires health care and be treated by a specialist.
Memory loss can be a sign of dementia, which affects thinking, language and behavior. The main causes of dementia are Alzheimer’s, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, progressive supranuclear palsy, normal pressure hydrocephalus or mad cow disease (Creutzfeldt-Jakob), but also Parkinson’s, Huntington’s or multiple sclerosis.
In the event that the cause of forgetfulness is dementia, memory exercises and routines can be performed to help slow down the process. The first ones are mental, visual exercises, which require the sense of touch, and physical ones, which help to stay alert.
These are the six exercises that most help the memory of people with dementia:
1.- The puzzles. They encourage the retention of memories and stimulate the mind to find which pieces fit together and where to place them.
2.- Find objects. Hide everyday objects in different parts of the house and then find them. Exercises the mind, makes you think, remember…
3.- Review photographs. It can be one of the most rewarding activities. Take the photo album or put the photos of the past years on the computer or television to ignite memories of life’s highlights.
4.- Board games. They help promote dexterity, ability and coordination of the hands.
5.- Dance. It is a way to have fun while exercising your memory, learning and executing the steps.
6.- Hobbies. Word search puzzles, crossword puzzles, sudoku puzzles… They exercise memory and stimulate the brain’s “muscle”. It is necessary that the level of difficulty is in accordance with the capacity of the person with the first levels of dementia.
Regarding the five activities of daily life:
1.- Clean the house. It helps to exercise the muscles and can be an effective exercise in thinking and knowing what is clean and what is not.
2.- Household accounting. Whenever possible, do the household accounts, with simple numbers and operations and with help when needed.
3.- Shopping list. It is one of the essentials.
4.- Plan the day. Write all the daily objectives in a notebook and review those that have been met and those that have not, without causing stress.
5.- Go for a walk. It is another necessary activity. The body needs to exercise and receive sunlight, which provides vitamin D, so necessary for health.
Source: Ambito
David William is a talented author who has made a name for himself in the world of writing. He is a professional author who writes on a wide range of topics, from general interest to opinion news. David is currently working as a writer at 24 hours worlds where he brings his unique perspective and in-depth research to his articles, making them both informative and engaging.
