Being diagnosed with cognitive impairment or progressive memory loss can make it feel like doors are being closed to you, but it’s still possible to live a rich, meaningful life. The following resources from our HealthPartners care team are here to help you along the way.
A cognitive condition can change many aspects of daily living and how you plan for the future. This guide from our care team contains information, resources and things to keep in mind.
In addition to seeing your doctor, there are many things that can help you live with a cognitive condition. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, mindfulness practices and exercise classes can help you with:
- Managing changes in ability or behavior
- Preventing falls and other accidents
- Supporting your quality of life
Alongside therapeutic services, NeuroWell offers a number of other programs, such as:
- Brain Gym Class for supporting cognitive and physical function
- Individualized Exercise Programming for a tailored approach to building strength, endurance and flexibility
- Mindful Yoga for improving well-being and physical skills
For more information, call 651-495-6704 or email neurowell@healthpartners.com
The relationship between a healthy lifestyle and brain function is an important one. Your physical, mental and emotional health are all aspects of your overall well-being. And improving your health physically tends to provide benefits to your mental and emotional health. Choices that can help you feel more fulfilled and that may benefit your cognitive ability include:
- Getting regular physical activity
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids
- Practicing good sleep hygiene and getting enough sleep
- Socializing regularly
- Keeping your brain active through puzzles, games, reading, writing, playing instruments, studying, making art and similar activities
- Doing activities that stimulate your memory and other cognitive functions
Living with cognitive impairment or dementia can bring changes in your emotions, behavior, and how you relate to yourself and others. In addition to treatments, programs and lifestyle changes, having proven tools that you can rely on to help you manage your thoughts and feelings can give you the strength and courage to face challenging situations.
Depending on your diagnosis and symptoms, you may find yourself experiencing bouts of frustration, grief, anxiety, depression or similar emotions. It’s important not to bottle up these feelings. One way to address them is to talk with your care team. They have a lot of experience helping people in situations like yours and can put together a personalized treatment plan that can help. You may also benefit from speaking with a rehabilitation psychologist. They’re mental health specialists who help people with changes resulting from injuries or illnesses.
Call 952-993-5900 to make a rehabilitation psychology appointment
Your mind and your body are closely linked, which makes relaxation an important part of your self-care. Holding tension in the body makes it easier to feel stressed, whereas being relaxed can help us feel capable of facing challenges. There are many relaxation techniques that you can use to build a sense of inner peace and resolve.
Your thoughts, feelings and preferences are key to getting effective care. You’re more likely to benefit from treatment and feel better overall when you’re understood by the people around you. This means asserting yourself in your care – standing up for your desires and rights without intentionally hurting others. If needed, your care team can help you learn how to be assertive in your interactions with loved ones, doctors and others.
Based on your unique needs and situation, your doctor may prescribe medication to help reduce cognitive decline, support cognitive function and manage your symptoms related to cognitive conditions. Your doctor can explain what different medicines do and how they will help you, but it can also be helpful to learn about these medicines on your own.
The HealthPartners Center for Memory and Aging (CMA) works to improve our understanding and treatment of memory and cognitive disorders. The CMA participates in research, clinical trials and educational outreach with the goal of helping people live fuller lives.
Our Caring for Someone with Memory Loss educational talks are free, online and open to the public. To hear experts discuss dementia symptoms, care recommendations, lifestyle tips and more, you can watch videos of past talks or see upcoming ones.
Research paves the way for improvements to how health conditions are treated. By participating in surveys, observational studies and clinical trials, you can help researchers better understand the effects of cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s and other dementias, as well as the ways that these conditions can be treated. Talk with your care team to find out if a research study is suitable for you.
If you’re over the age of 65, the Minnesota State Senior Linkage Line can help you with insurance, care planning, financial planning and other resources.
Being a caregiver for someone with cognitive impairment or memory loss can be challenging. It’s possible to spend so much time supporting your loved one that your own physical and mental health take second priority. In addition to support groups and other community-based resources, mindfulness programs like those offered by the Presence Care Project can reduce stress and increase your sense of compassion and well-being.
In addition to the resources above, local and national associations offer a wide array of support, education and other resources for individuals and families living with cognitive conditions.