Memory is one of the foundations of our identity. What to do when it disappears completely or fades gradually until it is lost without the possibility of recovery? Cognitive decline in dementia can affect psychological functions, including episodic and procedural memory.
In such situations, the person lives in a continuous present, where interactions with oneself, others, and things occur in the moment. Language acquires greater importance, communicating through a poetic word-gesture that allows for a different interaction, a deeper and more respectful approach.
The signals for choosing the word-gesture are uniquely discovered in each individual, through the attentive observation and listening of family members and caregivers. It is a dialogue based on ways of speaking that resonate with the affected person, like a melody they enjoy listening to, a poetic language that seeks to connect on levels beyond the descriptive, introducing representative and figurative elements.
The loss of memory also reveals that the identity and origin of each human being are not based solely on the past, but on the present moment, a time where decisions can create a different and renewed future.
In the face of perceived memory problems, it is advisable to seek guidance from specialists in neuropsychology and geriatrics, who can conduct evaluations and provide follow-up to address the consequences these difficulties may have on daily life. From small forgetfulness to events that impact the person's functionality and independence, personalized attention from caregivers can be crucial in these cases.
In this regard, proper support and seeking professional help are essential to face the challenges that arise when memory begins to fail. It is through a deep understanding and a respectful approach that pathways are opened to maintain the dignity and quality of life of those experiencing these processes.
