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Let’s Talk About Cognitive Decline.

About 11% of U.S. adults aged 45+ report experiencing cognitive decline like memory loss or difficulty concentrating.[1] What's worse is that they don't talk to their doctor about it, but that is a story for another article.


My husband didn’t have dementia, he had six strokes, and over time, they affected how he thought and processed things. Most days, we were okay. We did everything together, and that helped.


But some days were harder, especially after dialysis. He’d forget how to make coffee, put his clothes on backward, or once, even wore his tie inside out (still not sure how he pulled that off).

What was most concerning was how he seemed to lose his sense of danger. Someone could have walked right into our home, or convinced him to go with them anywhere, if I wasn’t around. 

People didn’t always see the changes, and that’s okay. Because he was never alone. We were always watching out for him.



 Caring for someone with cognitive challenges is tough. They’re still adults. They deserve dignity, independence, and to make their own choices when they can.

In the beginning, I was overwhelmed. Frustrated. Unsure of what to do or if I even had the right to step in. But with time, I learned how to keep him safe and let him keep his dignity.

No, he didn't always like it and no, I wasn't always happy through it, but he was safe and he knew I loved him and he trusted me...that made all the difference in the world. 


If your loved one is showing signs of cognitive decline, don’t assume it’s just part of getting older. Schedule time with their doctor to get a clear diagnosis. It’s important to have an honest, caring conversation, about what you’re noticing, how you’re feeling, and what they want moving forward. They deserve to be seen, heard, and supported with patience, love, and dignity.


Get a free copy of the Caregiver CEO Survival Kit 

 
 
 

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