We are all individuals and therefore remember things in different ways, but there is one thing we all have in common, “use it or lose it”, in other words it is helpful to exercise the brain.

Of course, there is no cure for dementia and Alzheimer’s, but we can help to reduce the distress for those in the early stages, who are aware that they are becoming forgetful and finding it upsetting.

Write things down

Lists, calendars and diaries can reduce the worry about forgetting something important.

Having a calendar or noticeboard in a place where you will see it frequently can be a useful memory-jogger to important activities, events and appointments so that they are not missed.

Lists are often very rewarding, as well as useful.  There is a great deal of satisfaction to be had from ticking off a list item once it has been completed.

Photographs can also be good memory joggers, especially for those people who think in pictures rather than words.  They can also be helpful when people are in the more advanced stages of dementia to stimulate conversations about family, past happy times and events.

Brain exercise

Crosswords, quizzes and puzzles can be helpful for keeping the brain, and memory active. According to the Alzheimer’s charities “the popular theory goes that the more you regularly challenge your brain the less likely you are to experience cognitive impairment (a reduction in someone’s ability to remember or learn things) or dementia in your later years.”

Memory stimulation

Arts-based activities – drawing/painting classes, drama groups and book clubs can all help to keep you active and involved and music and singing are known to improve mood and wellbeing.

Similarly, scents and sounds provide stimulation and well-being. Sensory gardens can be designed to provide different sensory experiences, including scented plants, sculptures, textured touch pads and water features.

And finally, memory loss can be an isolating experience so it is important to not forget the power of human contact, a hand held or a gentle massage could make all the difference.