Memory Loss and Medication Frustration

As more people approach 80, 90 and even 100 candles on their birthday cake, adult children are often given the opportunity to care for their parents for a time before assisted living is warranted. It can be a strange and sometimes awkward reversal of roles, where the one-time caregiver becomes the patient. To complicate things further, memory issues may become apparent and frustrating for everyone involved. These memory difficulties can be especially frustrating and dangerous when medications are involved. Caregivers are often obstructed by the patient refusing certain medicines or medical treatments.  

Patience for the Patient

While individuals lose their memories and other mental faculties, they may still feel that their memory is “fine.” If they do recognize their failing memory, they may be just as frustrated, if not more, than anyone around them. This frustration can present itself in angry outbursts and seemingly childish tantrums over what may seem the most trivial matters. The patient can often sense frustration building in a caregiver, adding to their stress in a vicious cycle. There are a few aids to break that cycle of frustration.

• Find a quiet, calm space to talk – often, a lot of background noise can be distracting and agitating, especially for individuals with hearing or attention difficulties.
• Find easier ways to take medications – some medicines come in various forms. For example, if pills are difficult to swallow, the doctor may be able to prescribe the same or similar medicine in liquid or chewable form.
• Be aware that some medicines taste bitter or may cause negative side effects. In addition, at times, patients have difficulty verbalizing what they don’t like, so it’s important to pay attention to non-verbal cues to determine what is prompting the rejection of medicines.

Communication can be Key

Keeping lines of communication open is possibly the best method for ensuring a patient gets the medication they need when they need it.  

• Talking with the patient/loved one to understand their feelings and perceive the treatment plan can help ease their concerns. For example, if they struggle with memory issues, the plans may need to be written down and reviewed repeatedly, but a calm, patient approach can help them to accept plans made for them.
• Communication with doctors and other medical caregivers can be an excellent source of options to explore and tips in helping deal with patients with mental facility issues.  
• Find a daily routine that works for you and your patient, and stick to it. Consistent routines can be immensely helpful for any memory, especially routines that are convenient to adhere to.

Medication time can be a source of frustration, but it is also an opportunity to spend time with your loved one and relish the time you have. Gianna Homes is available for both residential and in-home care. For more information, contact Gianna Homes to learn more about memory care options.