How Alzheimer's Affects Time Perception
- Elder Love USA
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
People with Alzheimer's disease often experience difficulties with short-term memory. They may frequently forget recent events, important dates (such as anniversaries or medical appointments), or everyday details. For those with Alzheimer's, time can feel like it's moving faster, and rather than recalling what just happened, they may rely on older, long-term memories to make sense of the present moment.
Why It Happens Hannah Keage and Tobias Loetscher from the University of South Australia suggests that this happens because long-term memories are stored in the brain's cortex, while short-term memories are processed in the hippocampus.
In Alzheimer's, the hippocampus is one of the first areas to be affected, disrupting the ability to form new memories. As the disease progresses, other regions of the cortex also become involved, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to track time, remember dates, or maintain a clear sense of the present.
These cognitive and memory challenges can have a significant impact on their day-to-day life and routines.
What Can Caregivers Do?
3. Use Reminiscence Therapy
Reminiscence therapy involves discussing past memories to validate and engage with the person’s personal history. This practice can improve mood and emotional well-being while also offering insight into how they are currently interpreting their world. Asking questions about old jobs, hobbies, or life experiences helps caregivers understand their perspective. Based on this, caregivers can adapt the environment or routines—for example, if the individual used to rely on a physical calendar for organization, switching to a physical calendar that they can write on may be more effective.
2. Use Reminders and To-Do Lists
Write down important reminders or to-do lists and keep them visible. Break tasks down into smaller, manageable steps. If an important event or task is coming up, ensure they have a clear reminder.
The clocks below can help keep track of time and tasks. These clocks have easy-to-read displays where either caregivers or the person with Alzheimer's can write daily tasks on an interactive panel. (Note: If you purchase the product through our link, Elder Love USA earns a small commission to support our mission.)
Relish Day Connect Digital Clock
Features a high-definition display with automatic brightness adjustment, customizable settings, multi-language support, and a simplified interface
American Lifetime Digital Clock
Offers a large, easy-to-read display, customizable alarms, auto-dimming for different lighting conditions, a backup battery for power outages
Relish Day Hub Routine Manager
Allows users to track daily tasks with an easy-to-use card panel, provides audio reminders
3. Establish a Consistent Routine
Maintaining a predictable routine of activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or taking medications occur at the same time and place every day. Consistency helps reduce confusion and provides structure.
The challenges of memory and time perception in Alzheimer's disease can be overwhelming, both for the individual and their caregiver. However, by creating a structured routine, using helpful tools and reminders, and engaging in techniques like reminiscence therapy, caregivers can provide valuable support to improve their loved one’s quality of life.