brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Memory Loss
Treatment of Memory Loss
Treating any disorders contributing to memory loss may help restore memory. For example, vitamin B12 deficiency is treated with vitamin B12 supplements, and an underactive thyroid gland is treated with thyroid hormone supplements. For depression, treatment involves medications, psychotherapy, or both. Doctors choose antidepressants that do not worsen memory loss, such as Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (SSRIs). For normal-pressure hydrocephalus, a shunt can be surgically placed to drain the excess fluid around the brain. If a person is taking medications that affect brain function, doctors may stop the medication, decrease the dose, or try substituting another medication. If the only cause is age-related changes in memory, doctors reassure people that the problem is not serious, that these changes do not mean that mental function will decline substantially, and that there are ways to compensate for losses and possibly to improve mental function (see Essentials for Older People ). Some generally healthful measures are often recommended for people who are worried about memory loss: Exercising regularly Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables Getting enough sleep Not smoking Minimizing use of alcohol or other substances (such asmarijuana) Participating in social and intellectually stimulating activities Getting regular check-ups Avoiding high levels of stress Protecting the head from injury These measures, along with controlling blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels, also tend to reduce the risk of heart and blood vessel disorders. Some evidence suggests that they may reduce the risk of dementia, but this effect has not been proved. Some experts recommend the following: Learning new things (such as a new language or a new musical instrument) Doing mental exercises (such as memorizing lists, doing word puzzles, or playing chess, bridge, or other games that use strategy) Reading Working on the computer Doing crafts (such as knitting and quilting) Using cues to help with remembering and organizing things These activities may help maintain or improve mental function, possibly because they strengthen connections between nerves. Having stronger nerve connections helps people postpone the decline in mental function that results from changes in the brain and then helps them compensate for that decline. , medications called Medications that may improve mental function (such as Aducanumabis used to treat Alzheimer disease. However, many experts disagree about which people should use the medication or even whether the medication should be used at all.Lecanemaband donanemab are newer medications that may be used to treat Alzheimer disease. Mild cognitive impairmentmay be treated withdonepezil. This medication may temporarily improve memory, but the benefit appears to be slight. No other medication has been shown to help. No treatment can restore mental function or completely stop the progression of dementia. Thus, Treatment focuses on keeping the person safe and providing support as the person declines. If memory loss is relatively severe or family members are concerned about the person's safety, the person's home can be evaluated by occupational or physical therapists. They can recommend ways to prevent falls and other accidents and may suggest protective measures, such as hiding knives, unplugging the stove, and taking the car keys away. A supportive environment has the following characteristics: Orientation is frequently reinforced (for example, by large calendars and clocks). The atmosphere is bright and cheerful. A regular routine is followed. Some stimulation (for example, from a television or radio) and enjoyable activities are available. Eventually, the person may need a housekeeper or home health aide or may need to move to a one-story home, an assisted-living facility, or a skilled nursing facility. 