Читать книгу The Lovin' Ain't Over for Women with Cancer - Ralph Alterowitz - Страница 22

A major annoyance for many cancer survivors is what has come to be known as “chemo brain,” when they have difficulty with short-term memory, are unable to concentrate, and have difficulty performing mental tasks that previously gave them no trouble. Donna, 49, an accounts receivables clerk with a facility for numbers, says, “I could remember everything. When my boss used to ask me about an account, I would give her the answers without any hesitation. Now, even an hour after I looked at the statement, I have to tell her, ‘I’ll have to look.’”

With the general acceptance of the reality of chemo brain, the health care community is continually devising approaches that patients can use to improve their cognitive functioning. Most of these methods are used by executives and others who, while they have no specific problem, feel they need to track details of daily activities. They can provide hope to women whose response to chemo-brain is like Rachel’s: “I’m not going to let chemo-brain do me in.”

Commonly repeated suggestions include:

Focus on the task at hand. This includes simple things such as where you put your keys or your slippers, as well as more complex tasks such as handling the bills or working on office assignments.

1.Make a list of things you need to do. A great many people keep “To Do” lists all the time because with many things happening during the day, it is easy to forget important items. People prepare shopping lists for the same reason.

2.Get clarity on the things other people ask you to do. Ask them to repeat what they have said, perhaps stating the request in another way. You might even tell them your understanding of their request.

3.To better handle complicated actions and activities, people with severe chemo-brain problems find it helpful to practice the activity so that the process is clearer in their mind.

4.Maintain a daily organizer or keep a journal for easy reference.

5.Regularly challenge your memory in order to retain good mental capability. Activities such as crossword puzzles and memory games can help.