Good evening all. I am wondering if anyone has any first hand knowledge of any supplements that can be of help to elderly people with memory impairment? My mother - who is 96 - has been to see a specialist and had a brain scan as her memory has been getting very bad and it has become distressing for her and for others. Unfortunately the scan does show changes but not any that would respond to the current array of medicines available for Alzheimer type symptoms.
We are trying hard to ensure my mother can stay living independently as is her wish but need to find some way to help her memory. Unfortunately, when it becomes apparent she hasn't or has done certain things, she becomes aggressive and abusive. Whilst I do appreciate it must be very hard for her - it borders at times on making it impossible for her to stay where she is as the problem areas range from not taking medicines to poor personal hygiene, not eating properly etc etc. I have read a great deal and have some ideas on what would help but would really appreciate knowing if anyone has any personal / professional experience they would share.
Thank you for reading all this!
Take care
Celia
Hi Celia,
I believe that Gingko Biloba and Gotu Kola are good for memory problems such as your mother is suffering though they do take time for any effects to show. It is a bit of a minefield out there so maybe it would be a good idea to see a herbalist. Strengths of supplements vary so much and the absorption rates can vary as well but a good herbalist should be able to say just how much of any supplements would help your mother.
Good luck. Let us know how you get on.
Maggie xx
Maggie - many thanks for your reply. Mum already takes Gingko Biloba and has done for some time but I will certainly look into Gotu Kola. I did suggest to Mum that she went to an alternative practitioner but the idea went down like a lead balloon! I am a nurse and have some alternative therapy training so do have access to info and some practitioners and can take that route but wanted to know of any personal stories.
Thanks for taking the time to reply, will certainly post here if Mum agrees to take a further supplement of any type and what result it has after a reasonable period of trial.
Take care
Celia
Sorry to hear about your mom.
I would like to add vitamin B1 and the amino acid L-tyrosine. Both of these are known for stimulating the brain.
Instead of taking ginkgo biloba separately (which is less effective), maybe switch to a supplement formulated specifically to reenergize the brain. Many contain ginkgo biloba plus a variety of other nutrients.
Often, older people will reject the idea of taking "another pill". No matter what it is. Perhaps that's what you're up against here.
Hope this helps.
Have you tried taking Methycobalamin lozenges ?? As they help..
Hi
At 96, your mum sounds like she is doing great, as old age comes apon us all, I can only hope i last that long.
I can only argee that Ginkgo and Gotu kola are good safe choices. I would also suggest you have a look at Brahmi (Bacopa monniera) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) as these two Ayurvedic herbs would have been known to help.
Good Luck
Thanks for reply
Hi Steve - just picked up your reply - ty. Have been doing some reading about Brahmi that you mentioned. Certainly sounds interesting . Now trying to find a one a day capsule or tablet ideally as I am fairly sure she will take one with her tablets after breakfast but other tablets later in day often get missed 🙁
Will keep at it...
Have a good Bank Holiday weekend - despite the weather!
Celia
Update - have tried Mum for almost two months with Ashwaganda but without any significant change 🙁 Anyone have any thoughts if this is long enough to try or not? Unsure whether or not to continue or look at one of the other suggestions.
Many thanks
Celia