The Memory domain is the component of cognition that most people think of when they think of cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. Typical age-related declines in memory include minor forgetfulness, such as not remembering why you entered a room or where you left your keys. When deficits become severe enough to interfere with daily living, an underlying neurodegenerative disorder is likely in play.
Memory changes can be frustrating and for those with a form of dementia, they can be life-altering. This, exercising this domain is crucial. The next section features two examples of the fun activities CTM uses to engage the memory domain.
In Picture Details, the client is prompted to look at an image for a set amount of time. The image is then hidden and the client is asked some questions about the details of the picture that was just shown. Images and questions vary in difficulty so the activity can be customized for each client.
Memory Cards is similar to the common childhood game, Memory. This activity uses a deck of cards with matching sets of pictures. A few pairs are selected by the caregiver, shuffled and placed upside down. The client is then instructed to turn over two at a time and collect all the matches. He or she must remember the location of given images in order to find the pairs quickly. This activity can be made more or less challenging depending on the number of cards used.
Many cognitive programs focus simply on memory or only a few domains of cognitive functioning. CTM, on the other hand engages all of the primary domains of the mind. This holistic approach leads to optimal engagement for each client.