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Visory Health Veteran Caregiver Series: The Veteran and Memory Loss

Are you a caregiver of a Veteran who is experiencing memory loss? Perhaps forgetfulness occurs occasionally or more often than you realize. Memory loss can be concerning for the Veteran’s health and well-being. In this blog, we’ll discuss memory loss, some reasons why your Veteran may be forgetful, tips to sharpen memory skills, and ways to prevent or minimize memory loss.

The What and Why of Memory Loss in Veterans

According to the War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, memory loss refers to unusual forgetfulness that may be caused by:

Disease
Head Injury
Severe Emotional Trauma
Sleep deprivation

Psychological factors that may contribute to memory loss include:

Stress
Depression
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Traumatic Brain Injury and Memory Loss

Veterans who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) may be at risk for memory loss. According to the Veterans’ Administration, Veterans most at risk for TBI are those Veterans who have experienced a traumatic head injury with:

loss of consciousness or
change in memory or concentration

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Memory Loss

PTSD affects 7%-8% of all Americans at some point during their lifetimes, with women being affected twice as often as men (10% versus 5%).

PTSD may be more likely in people who have sustained a traumatic brain injury.

Veterans with PTSD:

Try to avoid memories associated with a traumatic experience
May experience cognitive disturbances that impair memory
Experience hyperarousal and reactivity that cause sleep problems

Tips to Help Veterans Prevent or Minimize Memory Loss

According to the VA, the following may help with your memory:

Wearing protective headgear: protect your head from falls or trauma
Being in good physical shape: physical activity helps decrease stress
Avoiding alcohol and tobacco: use of substances may affect memory
Maintaining healthy eating habits: healthy foods are good for brain health
Getting a good night's sleep: adequate sleep is important for brain health
Doing mentally stimulating activities such as reading and writing: keep your brain active

Additional Tips for Improving Memory Care

The Mayo Clinic also offers tips to help prevent or minimize memory loss, including:

Remain physically and mentally active: Keep moving throughout the day to stay active. Engage your mind by learning something new: a hobby, read a book, solve puzzles, or other activities that challenge your mind.
Social interaction is important to decrease stress, which may contribute to memory problems. Maintain a support system and interactions with friends.
Get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet. Sleep and proper nutrition are important for your brain health.
Take care of your chronic health problems. Follow the advice of your provider to remain as healthy as possible. Some medications can affect your memory. Ask your pharmacist or provider if you think a medication may be affecting your memory.

When Do I Get Help for Memory Problems?

If you are concerned that you or someone you provide care for is experiencing memory problems, make an appointment with your medical provider to see if you have a treatable, underlying cause for your memory deficits. Possible treatment will depend on identifying the cause of the memory problems.

Supporting Our Visory Veteran Community

At Visory Health, we hear you and see you! We support our Veteran Community and understand our Veterans may experience memory problems for a variety of reasons.

If you are experiencing forgetfulness and memory difficulty, make an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. Follow your provider’s advice to optimize your health and take your medications as prescribed.

You can save money on your prescription medications by using the Visory Health Prescription Discount Card.

Stay Healthy, Stay Visory Health!

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To Your Health,

Dr. Creamer

DNP, MSN, MSS, MA

","disclaimer":"

This article is not medical advice. It is intended for general informational or educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911.

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