Coping with Memory Difficulties in Autism: Practical Approaches for Parents and Caregivers

Have you ever asked your child to put away their toys, only to find them forgetting halfway through? For many parents of autistic children, memory difficulties can be a daily challenge.

The relationship between autism and memory is a particularly troubled one. Research on autism spectrum disorders and their link to memory functions is ongoing. Even though memory difficulties are not a part of the official diagnostic criteria for ASD, it is a common symptom experienced by autistic individuals. 

A brief history of the relationship between memory and autism based on research

Some of the earliest references to the topic of memory and autism, in the 1960s and 70s, it was commonly inferred that autism should be classified as amnesia.

Current research on autism spectrum disorders has confirmed that individuals with autism have broad memory difficulties. A Stanford medicine-led study has found that this memory impairment goes well beyond just poor facial recognition. It is the most commonly found memory dysfunction in autistic individuals. We find these impairments directly reflected in the distinctive wiring patterns found in autistic childrens’ brains. 

Some helpful tips on parenting an autistic child

Parenting an autistic child is challenging, to say the very least. Research shows that parents of autistic children consistently score higher on stress indicators, when compared to other parent groups.

Here are some practical coping methods to deal with your autistic child’s memory function challenges:

1. Practising repetition
   Repetition helps transfer information from short-term memory to long-term memory. You can practise with your child, asking him/her to recall or recount a story.
   
2. Utilising visual supports
   Children with autism are usually visual learners. To assist them, you can place visual reminders around the house.
   Visual supports such as checklists, timetables, and schedules can break tasks into smaller steps. This will provide more clarity regarding the beginning or end of an event.
   For example - you can use a picture of a toothbrush next to the sink or create a morning checklist with images that your child can physically check off as they complete tasks.
   
3. Reducing distractions
   Ensuring that there are minimal distractions, will help your child focus on a particular activity.
   
4. Language
   Connecting memories with language helps improve memory function.
   
5. Nutritional supplements
   You can consult your paediatrician for any nutritional supplements that might support your child’s memory functions. Antioxidants, Vitamin B-12 and Omega 3 supplements are known to boost memory and cognitive functions. 
   
6. Keep things simple
   Simplicity is underrated. Simple concepts are much easier to remember than complicated ones. Break down larger ideas into smaller tasks. Focus on one skill, or one task at a time.
   For example: don’t say, “Go put away your toys, wash your hands and eat dinner.” Break each task into a step. Say, “Go put away your toys.” Then follow it up with “wash your hands”. 
   
7. Be organised
   Keep your house clutter free and organised. Have a system, and keep things where they belong. This will help your child to remember where certain items are
   placed. 
   
8. Develop routines
   Adhering to routines is the best way to improve the memory of a child with autism. A schedule with visual aids such as words and pictures, goes a long way in creating procedural memory for children of all ages.
   You could develop a daily schedule with pictures of the tasks. Such as waking up, brushing teeth, etc. Then place the picture schedule on the fridge or above their beds. This will serve as a daily reminder for them. 
   
9. Practising mindfulness
   Taking a few minutes each day to practise mindfulness with your child can help calm their mind, and yours too. A peaceful environment supports better memory retention
   
10. Support groups
    Never underestimate the power of a good support group and empathy. You can meet other families and parents who are facing the same challenges, and get emotional support.
    
11. Respite Care
    Always remember, to take care of your child, you need to be taking care of yourself. If your mental health is compromised, so will the quality of care you are giving to your child. Prioritise yourself also. Allow another caregiver to take over some time, to give yourself a break. 
    
12. Therapy
    If you are feeling overwhelmed it can be a good decision to consult a therapist. Professional mental health support can be very effective, in situations such as these.

Conclusion

And last but not least, Patience. It takes time to build patterns and effective habits. Distractions will take place but do not lose heart. Also, don’t expect any dramatic improvements in your child’s memory function within a short time. Offering reminders, empathy, and encouraging your child’s efforts to stay on course will ultimately pay off. 
Don’t forget to apply the same principles to yourself. Your efforts will not show results immediately. Small steps over time create lasting changes. Your dedication, patience, and love are making a difference, even when progress seems slow

Most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself, and know that you’re doing your best for your child. And your child appreciates you.