Cognitive MS

Thanks for asking your question here! I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for both of you. It’s understandable that the stress of repeatedly reminding her can be tough, especially when it feels like things aren’t clicking. It sounds like you’re doing everything you can, even though it’s exhausting. You’re not alone in this, and it’s great that you’re looking for support. While you wait for others to share their experiences, I wanted to suggest, if you haven't done so already, creating gentle reminders—like using a journal or calendar for recent events, or even setting up digital reminders to ease the burden on both of you.

Here’s also a thread where other members have shared similar experiences and responses: https://multiplesclerosis.net/forums/memory-issues-from-ms. Lastly, this article talks more about memory problems in MS: https://multiplesclerosis.net/memory-problems. I hope this helps, and stay encouraged. Being a caregiver is never easy, but your care and support make a huge difference.

All the best, Latoya (Team Member)

hey there. I'm so sorry you are experiencing this, it's hard managing cognitive and memory problems. I've been on the side of supporting folks with memory problems, from mild to severe. And, while I still have no diagnosis, I'm starting to have trouble myself. Which really sucks, I've always had the memory of a steel trap. Until a year or so ago, I've had excellent recall. And now... I'll remember dreams as reality. And forget important things. It is really hard to experience, and I know it's hard on my husband.

We've done some adapting. We use white boards on the fridge for Everything. Shopping lists, calendars, keeping track of timelines. When I schedule an appointment, it goes on the dry erase board. Not just the time, but the time I need to leave by and what I need to take with me.

And we purchased cheap tablets (Walmart brand on black Friday sale) that we run a free app, Fotoo, as a digital picture frame that we add new experiences by photo as a constant reminder.

It's working for me, for now. I hope you are able to find some solutions to make it easier for you. It is so hard keeping patience sometimes, especially when you've already said the same thing several times before. It's hard on the other side too... knowing that you know what you need but can't recall. I commend you for reaching out for ideas and support, and I'm wishing the best for you both. 💜💜

I have set up my computer to continuously display photos of our lives. She enjoys them but it’s also hard when she exhibits frustration about not recalling many of the events. Sometimes I think I should stop the displays for that reason. What is your opinion. BTW thanks for your reply