Memory

I forget to take my tablets

Memory problems are very commonly reported by people with MS. They say things like “I get so frustrated that I can’t remember”. However, most people with MS do not experience severe memory problems and there are many strategies that seem to help. In particular, prompts and reminders can work very well.

Tips and Tricks

• Everyone forgets things now and again. The strategies that everyone uses to help remember things are very good for people with MS.
• Paper diaries and electronic organisers are unobtrusive and very useful. You may find that you need to use them more often and more scrupulously than previously, but they work.
• For important appointments (e.g. at hospital) and dates (e.g. birthdays), you may need to note necessary preparation in advance. For example, a reminder to book leave from work or transport a week before a scheduled hospital appointment. Or reminding yourself to buy a card, wrapping paper and the present a week before the birthday.
• Most people with MS are able to remember pretty complete information from a small prompt or cue. For example, a post-it note saying “dry cleaning” on your car dashboard will probably be enough to remind you to stop to pick up the cleaning.
• If you feel that your memory problems are becoming apparent in your relationships, it might be worth checking with your family and friends if there are things that they have noticed you forget. If you are forgetting to do chores or help out your partner, the important things can be identified and a prompt, schedule or reminder set up to help you complete your tasks, which your partner will appreciate. If you are missing out on social occasions or meetings because you forget the invitations or information, you can set up prompts or reminders so that you don’t miss out. Friends may be prepared to e-mail you meeting details, so you have a written prompt.

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