Tools to keep the senior brain on track

With the right supports in place, one can help a parent or spouse with memory issues extend the time they live safely at home.

Posted 12:37 p.m. Feb 17, 2020 — Updated 12:37 p.m. Feb 17, 2020

Liisa Ogburn

It is one thing to lose your keys or misplace your wallet, to forget why you went upstairs or what the woman’s name is who you ran into in the produce aisle. It is another thing to not remember whether you drove to the store or not, or where you live. While the majority of us experience the former starting in our fifties, sixties or seventies, many of us assume that these are simply a precursor to the latter: a diagnosis of dementia.

In a recent talk, Psychologist Landy Anderton said one of the biggest issues seniors face is the phobia that we are developing dementia. What’s usually happening is not dementia, but Benign Senescent Forgetfulness, complicated by anxiety and fear of embarrassment.

In fact, in the 70-80 year range, one study showed that only 9% have true dementia. Having what brain scientists call normal “Benign Senescent Forgetfulness” is more common (10-15%) and usually harmless. “Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI),” which has a stronger neurological basis, is more serious, one can still live independently with support.

What kinds of supports can help wherever you lie on the spectrum? Here are some tools many individuals use to help stay oriented, independent and safe.

Large calendar on the wall or by the phone where all important events are recorded and the days are crossed off as they pass. (Seniors may worry that they will miss an upcoming appointment, but a simple reminder to look at the calendar can alleviate that concern. “Look mom, that appointment is on Thursday.”)
Pill organizers or blister packs
Alarms on one’s phone or Alexa to remind them to take their medications. (To set up an alarm on Alexa, say, "Alexa, remind me to take my medications everyday at 9 am.")
Strategically placed large post-it notes with reminders. (“Take your meds.” "Brush your teeth." Or “Lock the door behind you.”)
Large clock with the date and time.
Simplified remote for their television.
If they carry a smart phone and you are worried they may get lost, adult children can use a tracking application, like Life 360, to always see where mom or dad are.
There are alarms you can attach to your keys that will beep if you misplace them. (While there are many options, the highest ranked is the Tile Mate.)
A note in your parent’s wallet with their name and address and your phone number if they get lost.
For additional ways to use Alexa, visit: https://thehelpinghome.com/alexa-for-seniors-21-extremely-practical-ways-older-adults-can-use-amazon-echo/