My Nan has had some mild memory issues over last few years, nothing out of the ordinary for her age (she’s 88). She’s generally fit and well, eats a balanced diet, is up and about every day, fully independent, never smoked or drank alcohol. So when we received her memory clinic results the other day that she’s got early stages of Alzheimer’s, we were all shocked.
She was offered medication (unsure of name) but was told it could make her dizzy. This is a worry as she lives alone. So have decided against this for immediate future.
Does anybody have any advice on what we can do to support her? Any home adaptations recommended to aid her memory? Support groups? Diets/ supplements? We are open to anything !
My Nan is a bit oblivious to what Alzheimer’s is so have all decided not to bring it up and continue on as normal. My Nan told me over Christmas that if she had dementia that would terrify her and she wouldn’t want to know, so I don’t think she’s clocked on that Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia.
I don’t know if we are in denial or not but we are optimistic that as we have caught it early we may have a good chance at slowing it down/ preventing it progressing. So any advice on best ways to go about this would be extremely appreciated.
Thanks 🙂
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Dodecahedr0n
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My best friend has Alzhimers. Her husband recently decided to move to another state to be close to thier daughter. (Which l think was wise.) I do miss them terribly & was fortunate to have them visit us at Easter. She seemed to be about the same (l had feared the move would be confusing & frustrating for her). I was happy she remembered my name.So here how l handle Alzhimers... When she repeats the same stories over & over again... l listen & act like it was the first time l heard the story... a minute later the same story circles around.
When she becomes frustrated... trying to find the right word, l gently help her, which is easy because l know the stories so well.
So if l were you l would treat Nana the same but watch for signs that she needs more assistance.
Personally l think it is good that you decided against medicine that could make her dizzy. Falls are one of the most dangerous for us elderly. Make sure there are safety bars in the bathroom.
And most importantly tell her you love her over and over and over again!
I am struck by how similar our situations are. My mom's 86 with some memory issues and refuses to test for dementia. She would rather not know, as she knows that knowing will leave her paralysed by fear, and impair her ability to carry on. Not unlike your Nan.
Perhaps you would like to try posting at the Alzheimer's Society's forum if you haven't already, as there are few members here -
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