Forget Me Not
Like a raindrop on water, memory loss has a ripple effect. A person affected by memory loss may be frightened and grieving or coping with other symptoms of illness or ageing. But the emotional impact of memory loss has a profound impact beyond that person, affecting their family and friends, too.
Being faced with the reality of someone you love losing their memory may mean facing a prolonged grieving process. As your loved one loses their memory, you may feel like your relationship with them is slowly slipping away. They may be with you in body, but increasingly less in mind. We are the keepers of our shared experience. When the moments you have spent together begin to slip away, that loss may be very real for you, too. What happens when they forget me?
If you are caring for someone whose memory has been impacted by Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, or dementia, your own care is vitally important. The emotional cost of the love and care you give to them may be high; primary carers may be at risk of stress and depression themselves. At this time, your network of family and friends is an important resource and taking the time to care for yourself will help you better care for your loved one.
Remember that quality of life is experienced every day. The time, effort, and love you give to a person with memory loss are not wasted, whether or not they are remembered beyond this day, and their impact on that person cannot be overestimated
Over the coming weeks, we will be highlighting the memory loss associated with Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. You can help by fundraising for us; by making a donation; or by keeping up with our work on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.