Let's talk life: Forgetful retiree

Yvonnie Bailey- Davidson, Gleaner Writer

Dear Counsellor:

I am a retiree, and I find that I am very forgetful. I am otherwise well and enjoying my retirement years.

- Mary

Dear Mary:

Forgetfulness is part of life and it affects children and adults. Mild impairment comes with ageing. Progressive, severe memory loss is a feature of dementia.

It is good that you are enjoying your winter years, which can be challenging.

You may not be working but you need to keep occupied. The brain needs to be kept active, learning new things, solving puzzles and problems, making important decisions, setting goals and prioritising activities.

Healthy lifestyles and appropriate diet and exercise will improve your quality of life. You need to celebrate life and count your blessings each day. Think of your past successes and of those special moments when you felt real good.

Our memories are to be used to enhance our lives. It is no use looking back on only the bad memories and becoming depressed. Memories can be strange things - they depend on our mood, perception and current activities. Reminisce with friends and families about pleasant and exciting things.

Where were you 10 years ago, and what were you doing? There are some interesting games you can play with others and have fun. Continue making pleasant memories each day so you can remember them with happiness.

Memory challenges can be dealt with in several ways. Organise your possessions so that, even in the dark, you will be able to find them. Get one diary and make entries about various upcoming activities. Keep a to-do list and check if goals are achieved.

Take your supplements, eat a balanced diet, get adequate sleep and take your medication, as these will improve your memory as well.

Schizophrenic nephew

Dear Counsellor:

My nephew has schizophrenia but he takes his medication and has an important job. He is also planning to get married soon. His wife-to-be knows about his condition and encourages him in coping with his illness.

I just want to encourage families with sick members not to give up hope, as there is light at the end of the tunnel. Family support, compliance with medication and office visits, stress management, anger management and relapse prevention are good strategies for keeping individuals with schizophrenia well.

- John

Dear John:

I am happy to receive your comments, as you have identified for my readers the important strategies for the families coping with mental illness, and illnesses in general.

It is important for families to stick together and to help those affected by such illnesses. The stronger members should help the weaker ones. We cannot predict who will get sick, and with which condition.

Mentally ill patients need to be supervised by their doctor and family. Seeing a doctor is not only about getting a prescription but it's also about getting help with the various issues the patient is facing.

Continue to pray for and support your nephew.

Email questions and comments for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call her at 978-8602.