Going through life with your partner is one of the most enchanting experiences of life. During that time, couples may go through ups and downs such as experiencing memory loss.
Navigating the new waters of age can be challenging, especially when one spouse experiences memory loss and the other becomes the caregiver.
Having the support of your loved one and family can dramatically make a difference with all of the complexities to come.
Assisted living for couples ensures both partners can easily adjust to this new phase of their lives.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
What to do if your spouse is losing their memory?
Memory loss can come in many forms, ranging from general signs of aging to more progressive and harmful memory loss.
If you’re concerned your loved one may be losing their memory, learn common signs and symptoms to determine what next steps are needed.
Common signs of memory loss to look out for can include:
- Asking repetitive questions
- Struggling with common directions, recipes, or using day-to-day items
- Unable to remember recent conversations or details
- Having trouble with recognizable faces, names, or items
- Lack of self-care and independence, like missing meals or not bathing
If you notice any of these signs of memory loss in your loved one, it’s crucial to seek professional advice and support. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.
How do you deal with a forgetful spouse?
The key to handling memory loss with your spouse is patience and empathy.
You may be unable to control what is happening, but the best way to support your loved one is to be present and understanding.
Adjusting to life with a spouse experiencing memory loss
- Write down important, upcoming dates or notes for your spouse to quickly refer to.
- Revisit important details. Consistent and repetitive dialogue with them can help them retain the needed information.
- Create Mnemonics to help recall specific details and strengthen the brain.
- Maintain a distraction-free and organized environment to remove diversions and keep essential items where they will be found.
- Stay active, and try incorporating walking, dancing, or swimming into your routine.
How to discuss memory loss with your spouse
Having conversations with your spouse regarding their memory loss may be challenging.
When you initiate the conversation about memory care, approach it with compassion and understanding.
Consider the following steps for discussing memory loss:
- Create a plan of what you’re going to say and ensure a peaceful and comfortable environment without any distractions.
- Choose a time that allows an open dialogue to discuss all concerns.
- Provide examples of your concerns to help show your care and concern. Make sure you use language that does not point any blame.
- Encourage them to get a medical evaluation and emphasize how this will help them better understand their health and how to move forward as a unit.
If your spouse understands and receives your concerns with acceptance, that’s great news!
Some conversations may not be so easy—and that’s okay, too
- Be patient and empathetic, but do not push the conversation if it isn’t going well.
- Ask for familial support. Sometimes it helps to have another family member express their love and concern.
- Speak with a primary care physician for guidance and resources. Most communities have pamphlets, brochures, and other resources for support.
What to do if your spouse is diagnosed with dementia
When your wife or husband is diagnosed with dementia, you may begin to feel like your world is starting to shake and crumble.
But many couples go through this same journey and, while difficult, it can strengthen your bond.
If your spouse has dementia:
- Understand that your marriage will change and prepare for this by reassigning the roles in the marriage, planning out new goals, and redefining what your relationship looks like.
- Make yourself the Durable Power of Attorney so that you can make medical decisions when your spouse is no longer able to.
- Prioritize self-care and doing the things you love, like hobbies and activities.
- Consider financial plans – having a will and other financial plans prepared can help you prepare for what’s to come.
Tackling the guilt of moving your spouse into a memory care community
If you feel guilt, grief, or fear of being judged or overwhelmed—keep in mind that you are making this decision for what is best for your loved one’s needs and overall being.
To navigate spousal guilt:
- Reach out for support from someone you trust, like a counselor, friend, or family member, to share your feelings.
- Practice self-care
- Explore resources available for emotional support – including books, caregiver support groups, guides, and videos to help you navigate these new, tricky waters.
How to find assisted living communities as a couple
As health needs naturally differ with age, the adaptability of assisted living for couples becomes a comforting solution, accommodating couples on different paths.
Use this checklist to help make well-informed decisions about the transition to assisted living:
- Evaluate the current health status of both partners and consider future needs.
- Research assisted living communities offering flexible care options matching both partners’ health requirements.
- Evaluate the costs of maintaining separate homes versus shared assisted living and create a plan assessing short and long-term expenses.
- Visit several facilities to get a feel for the environment, staff, amenities, medical care, and recreational life enrichment activities.
- Check out the reviews of potential assisted living communities and seek any feedback while on your tours to gain a better understanding of your new home.
The Kensington Falls Church provides assisted living for couples
As you navigate this new path, remember the key is to move with empathy, communicate openly and intently, and seek support when needed.
If you’re just getting started in this journey, seek help and guidance from others who have gone through a similar experience.
When you’re ready to transition to an assisted living community as a couple, look no further than The Kensington Falls Church.
“The Kensington Falls Church is a beautiful, welcoming community. The thoughtful and caring staff go above and beyond to support the residents and their family members.”
Check out more testimonials like this one from Donna, the daughter of residents at The Kensington Falls Church.
Our specialized care team is equipped to help you and your loved one continue to live a fulfilling life.
We provide exemplary assistance and rehabilitation services for memory care, such as speech, physical, and occupational therapy to help support your spouse with their diagnosis.
For assistance and memory care support—contact The Kensington Falls Church today.