This month in our Care Conversations series we are focusing on cognitive function and why being aware of changes in memory or thinking is important for your overall wellbeing.
Why this matters
Changes in memory and thinking can affect how you manage daily activities, appointments, medications, finances, conversations and decisions. They can also affect confidence, safety, independence and quality of life.
Occasional forgetfulness can happen to anyone. However, ongoing changes that interfere with everyday life should not simply be accepted as a normal part of ageing. Cognitive changes can have many causes, and some may be treatable.
Talking about changes early can help identify the cause and put the right healthcare, practical supports and planning in place.
Understanding cognitive impairment
Cognitive impairment means changes in one or more thinking skills, such as memory, attention, language, planning, problem-solving, judgement or understanding where you are and what is happening around you.
It can be mild or more significant and may occur with conditions such as Dementia. Sudden confusion is different from gradual change and may be caused by an illness, infection, medication, or another health problem that requires prompt medical assessment.
What to look out for
Forgetting recent conversations, appointments or familiar information more often
Repeating questions, stories or tasks
Difficulty finding words, following conversations or understanding instructions
Becoming confused about the time, place or familiar surroundings
Difficulty planning, managing money or medications, or completing familiar tasks
Changes in judgement, mood, behaviour or interest in usual activities
Getting lost, leaving appliances on or other new concerns about safety
Actionable steps you can take today
Talk to your GP or care team if you notice new, ongoing or worsening changes. Seek prompt medical help if confusion comes on suddenly.
Write down when changes began and examples of what you or others have noticed.
Use familiar routines, calendars, lists, reminders and labelled storage to make everyday tasks easier.
Keep physically, socially and mentally active in ways that are safe and enjoyable for you.
Take medications as prescribed and ask your GP or pharmacist to review any concerns. Do not stop or change medication without professional advice.
Start the conversation
When the changes began, and whether they appeared gradually or suddenly
Specific examples, even if they seem minor or only happen sometimes
Any recent illness, fall, medication change, sleep problem or change in mood
How the changes are affecting medications, appointments, finances, household tasks or safety
Who you would like involved in conversations, and what support would help you remain independent
Where to get help
Your GP is a good place to start. They can review your health, medications, hearing, vision and mood, arrange tests and refer you to other healthcare professionals if needed. Support may also include a nurse, pharmacist, occupational therapist, geriatrician, neurologist or memory clinic.
Dementia Australia provides information and support for people with concerns about memory or thinking, their families and carers through the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
How Five Good Friends can support you
Your care team can help by discussing your concerns, arranging a nurse visit if appropriate, reviewing your Care Plan and current supports, and helping you connect with your GP or another healthcare professional where needed.
Availability of supports may depend on your individual circumstances and funding arrangements, which your care team can discuss with you.
How your Helper can support you
Use calm, clear language and give you time to understand and respond
Support familiar routines and use reminders or prompts outlined in your Care Plan
Offer simple choices and involve you in decisions about your support
Help you remain as independent as possible while respecting your choices and privacy
Observe and report changes that may need further attention
You do not have to manage changes in memory or thinking alone
Support is available, and early conversations can help identify the cause and protect your independence, safety and quality of life.
If you or someone close to you has noticed changes or raised concerns about your memory or would like to discuss support options please reach out to your GP.
Alternatively, Call 1300 787 581 or email [email protected] to be put in touch with your care team.