Even if we do not currently know someone afflicted with sudden memory loss chances are we will as those around us age. Most struggle with what to do when they find themselves in that situation. Here are some suggestions on how to address it when it happens.

While accidents, stress, trauma and other factors can affect memory, most of the issues we face with memory have to do with aging. Often it is first noticed by a sudden loss of short term memory, an inability to remember things that just happened. It may be that the person keeps asking the same question in a conversation because they cannot recall having asked it already or they begin to have trouble finishing tasks because they do not remember what they were doing. This can be difficult for both the person suffering from sudden memory loss as well as their loved ones.

There are many things to consider when this happens to someone you love. You will need to encourage that person to see a doctor who can evaluate the sudden loss of short term memory and determine what factors may be contributing to it. They can also help you assess whether that person can still take care of themselves or has reached a stage that requires assisted care or 24 hour help. Knowing where the person is at medically is important in determining next steps.

In general though there are things you do to help the person. First and perhaps one of the more important things. Be patient and respectful. You will need to remind yourself that they are not doing this on purpose and it is probably even more frustrating for them than for you. Showing frustration around that person will probably unsettle them which will make the symptoms of sudden memory loss worse. Also, remember that they are still the person you love and as a human being you need to help them maintain some dignity and respect. Many people suffering from issues like this fear losing control of their lives and being treated like a child. Treat them like an adult as much as possible while working around their illness.

Next, help them order their world so it require less of their memory. People with sudden memory loss may need reminder notes for things or instructions written out for them and placed around the house for things they have trouble remembering. Dry erase boards by doors and telephones can be helpful in leaving phone numbers, messages or reminders. Also, getting them a phone with speed dial buttons and programing them for frequently used numbers or family members can help as well.

People with sudden loss of short term memory may also need help focusing during tasks or conversations. Distractions like music or a TV while talking or doing a task can hinder the recall process. Distractions have a significantly greater impact for someone dealing with memory issues than they are for healthy adults so try to help remove distractions when you can.

Offer to share meals with them. Not only can you have good family time, but sometimes people with sudden memory loss forget to eat or don't always eat well if they can't focus to prepare meals. A healthy diet is critical for maintaining good brain function, so anything you can do to help them eat less fat, more Omega 3 fatty acids as well as fruits and veggies is important and may help slow the loss of memory. You might also encourage them to take a natural supplement that is geared toward brain support and enhancing memory. Many folks have found those helpful in combating the memory loss.

Finally, know your limits. There is only so much a loved one can do to help someone afflicted with something as serious as a sudden loss of short term memory. Recognize when you need to get outside help or when you need to ask another relative to take over for awhile and give you a break. It is not uncommon for loved ones to suffer burn out trying to do too much to take care of an aging relative. Above all, keep loving them...no matter what changes they may go through they are still your family.