A certain degree of memory loss is considered to be a normal part of aging. Depending on the symptoms and medical history, some memory loss causes are temporary or can be easily treated, while others get progressively worse with time and require long-term care. If you’re worried about the health of a senior in your life, reach out to Ventana’s retirement community in Dallas, Texas for memory services for seniors that can greatly improve their quality of life.
The older we get, the more our cognitive and bodily functions start to decline, and one of the earliest symptoms is memory loss. While occasionally forgetting the keys or an appointment is normal, severe short-term/long-term memory loss is not. To find out more about what causes memory loss and our personalized programs for seniors, call us at 214.225.6197.
Memory Loss: Causes and Concerns
Memory loss can happen due to a multitude of causes, and depending on the severity of symptoms, it can pose a risk to a person’s health and well-being.
What Is Memory Loss?
Memory loss encompasses everything from mild lapses in short-term memory, forgetting where you put something, being unable to recall someone’s name, forgetting important appointments, confusing time and place, and facing difficulty completing daily tasks.
What Causes Memory Loss?
There are a number of causes of memory loss, and they can vary from person to person based on a multitude of factors. The most common causes of memory loss include:
- Medications
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Head injury
- Stroke
- Sleep problems
- Depression
- Chronic stress
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Dementia
- Epilepsy
- Infections caused by HIV or the herpes virus
- Thyroid disease
In some cases, the memory loss is only temporary or can be easily treated by addressing the root causes of the disorder. For instance, if it is the side effect of a certain medication or caused by extreme fatigue or stress, changing the medication and one’s lifestyle can improve one’s physical and cognitive health.
However, if it is a progressive age-related disorder, there is usually no cure. Nevertheless, medication, therapy, and long-term care planning can decrease the symptoms and improve quality of life.
Seniors and Memory Loss
For seniors, memory loss only becomes a grave concern when it disrupts the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks. Being unable to recognize one’s surroundings or loved ones, forgetting whether they’ve eating a meal or not, and wandering about the house or beyond can result in accidents or other health issues.
If a member of your family is showing symptoms of memory loss, reach out to a healthcare provider as soon as possible. If progressive disorders such as Alzheimer’s are detected at an early stage, it is possible to slow down the symptoms and take precautions and measures to improve the member’s quality of life.
Progressive memory loss can also take a toll on the physical and mental health of the family caregivers. In later stages, it may not be possible to care for the senior member at home. Planning for the future and opting for personalized memory care services at a quality senior living community can make life comfortable and easier for everyone.
Moreover, the structured environment, skilled nursing care, and other therapeutic amenities available at a retirement community can ensure the safety, contentment, and comfort of a loved one.
Find Customizable Memory Care Services at Ventana
At Ventana, we offer member-focused care for seniors that takes into account their unique needs and lifestyle preferences. From Independent and Assisted Living programs to specialized Memory Care services, we take every step to provide an enjoyable and fulfilling existence for our members.
If you’re looking for the right memory care community for your loved one, call us at 214.225.6197.