Memory Loss from Bereavement

Hi all

I was hoping someone may have some advise or previous experience of Memory Loss from Bereavement. I lost my amazing dad in July. It was quick from diagnosis to his passing and he was cared for at home by me, my brother and my mum until the end.

My dad and I had slight concerns about Mums memory (just little trivia things) back in March before his diagnosis but since his passing it has become so much worse and continues to do so as we sadly nearly approach 6 months. Mum changed doctors after dad as she was not happy with the treatment he received and although she now has a lovely thorough doctor she is putting all of the memory loss down to the trauma and the bereavement. Although I thoroughly believe this had increased and intensified since his passing I cant help feeling we may be foolish to bury our heads in the sand and put it all down to that. Does anyone have any info on this? When should it start to get better etc? I do not want to push things too much as we are all really struggling especially at this time of year which I am sure you all are. With that said I hope you all manage to have the best christmas possible considering :(.

Thanks in advance x

  • Hello Kate, 

    I'm sorry to hear about your Dad. Whilst grief has some common phases that many people experience, it is unique to each individual and there is no hard and fast rule about how we should grieve or how long it should take. We have some informtioan on our website about Coping with grief which may be helpful for you to read. If you Mum has not had any counselling, then that may also be something that you might want to consider talking to her about. 

    Ultimatley though, you know your Mum and if you are concerned that there may be something more behind the memory loss other than her grieving then do get back in touch with her Dr and explain just how worried you are. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator