Finding support for memory changes

At first, it may be a question asked twice at dinner or a familiar errand that suddenly feels harder. A loved one notices and wonders whether to say anything. Memory changes can be scary. It is easy to put off talking about them when no one is sure what they mean.

That conversation is a good place to start. Memory concerns have many possible causes, and a health care professional can help determine what is happening. Families do not need to have the answers before they ask for help.

Memory Matters meets people at just this point. Its Connections program is for people with mild cognitive impairment, changes in memory or thinking that go beyond normal aging, or other early memory changes. Most are still fairly independent and want a place to keep learning, stay active and spend time with others.

The class follows Illuminate, a curriculum written by Dawn Adler, Kristin Einberger and Victoria Haas. It was developed by memory loss programs working with university researchers. Each session mixes discussion, creative projects, exercise and brain games. Just as important is the chance to belong.

Walking into a program with “memory” in its name can feel like admitting more than a person is ready to say. Joining a class does not define anyone. It can be a way to meet people who understand, try something new and keep a familiar rhythm to the week.

“People do not have to figure this out alone. In Connections, we focus on the whole person, not the diagnosis. We help families find their footing, too,” says Michelle Frink, program director at Memory Matters.

Jennifer has seen what that weekly rhythm can do for her husband, Joe. In her words:

“I would like to say how much Memory Matters has helped my husband. He has vascular dementia. He has been going to Memory Matters Connections Class every week for four years. I believe Memory Matters has helped him get to this point. I can’t even imagine what he would be like if not for this program. Plus, he loves to go. If you have someone who is starting this journey, get them connected. Memory Matters also has a class for the loved one who is a caregiver. That course has helped me tremendously in this journey and the meetings to vent, ask for help and get ideas what I can be doing. Truly Memory Matters has been a life saver for us.”

Getting support early gives families time to talk, make plans and find people they can call when things change. It also allows the person experiencing memory changes to continue doing what they enjoy with others around them.

Those who have noticed changes in their own memory or in someone they love can start with a conversation with a health care professional. They do not have to wait for a crisis to find community.
Memory Matters offers a free consultation and a free trial day at its Bluffton location, 2 Westbury Park Way, Suite 101. Call 843-842-6688 to learn more.

Jill Horner, M.Ed. is the executive director of Memory Matters. 117 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926. www.mymemorymatters.org