SelfhelpMagazine

by Edward A. Dreyfus, Ph.D.

You are very fortunate to have such an independent mother. She sounds like a very vibrant woman. And her living situation seems ideal. She has her autonomy and a social life all in one place.

Memory loss as we age is normal. It especially affects recent memory. Long term memory remains intact. And it often begins in our 60s or even in our 50s. However, it's always best to have a consultation with a physician.

Keeping our minds active help with memory. You can find lots of information on the aging process and its effects on memory by searching the internet. There are psychologists who specialize in working with the elderly and there are many books available. Avail yourself of these resources so that you can explain the process to her.

Given that she is healthy and alert she could also do some reading herself. It is important that you become familiar with the aging process so that you can allay both your mother's and your own anxieties.

Your mother has lived a long and healthy life; she will probably continue to do so for some time to come. But there will be some loss of function. The more you know about elderly issues, the more you can prepare.

About the Author:

Dr. Edward A. Dreyfus is a Clinical Psychologist, Marriage, Family, Child Therapist, and Sex Therapist. Dr. Dreyfus has been providing psychological services in the Los Angeles-Santa Monica area for over 30 years. He offers individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults, divorce mediation, couples counseling, group therapy, and career and vocational counseling and assessment. Dr. Dreyfus can be reached at: (310) 208-5700.