Older adults sometimes worry about their memory and thinking abilities. They’re concerned about taking longer to learn new things, or forgetting to pay a bill. These signs of aging are quite normal, and not necessarily an indication of dementia. However, serious memory problems make it hard to do everyday things, such as driving and finding your way home, or using your phone.
Signs of dementia include asking the same questions over and over again; getting lost in places a person knows well; difficulty following recipes and directions; becoming confused about time, people, and places; and not taking care of oneself, such as bathing, eating poorly, or behaving unsafely.
According to the National Institute of Aging, people with some forgetfulness can use various techniques to help, such as learning a new skill; following a daily routine; planning tasks and making to-do lists; making notes; putting things including wallets, phones, and glasses in the same place daily; eating well and exercising; volunteering; spending time with friends and family; getting enough sleep; maintaining a healthy blood pressure; and not drinking a lot of alcohol.
Some older adults have a condition called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This means they have more memory problems than other people their age. People with MCI are typically able to care for themselves and participate in normal activities. MCI can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, but people with MCI don’t always develop Alzheimer’s. Signs of MCI include losing things; forgetting to go to events or appointments; or having more trouble coming up with a word than others their age. People who have MCI should see their doctor every six to 12 months to track their memory and thinking skills.
Dementia, which includes loss of cognitive functioning such as thinking, remembering, learning, and reasoning, which affect a person’s life quality is not a normal sign of aging. Memory loss is also not the only sign of dementia. Individuals with dementia often have problems with language, visual perception, concentrating, and often exhibit personality changes.
There are different forms of dementia, but Alzheimer’s disease is the most common in people over age 65. If you, a family member, or friend has problems remembering recent events or thinking clearly, talk with a doctor. A thorough checkup may be suggested to see what might be causing the symptoms. You may also wish to talk with your doctor about opportunities to participate in research on cognitive health and aging. Tests can be performed, which may include a brain scan, and they may recommend that you see a neurologist.
Memory and other thinking problems can be caused by depression, an infection, or even medication side effects, and can sometimes be treated. However, determining the cause is important. Learn more at www.alz.org and www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers. Visit the WNY Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org/wny for information on support groups, resources, events, and more, or call 626-0600 extension 313 or email program.wny@alz.org. The Alzheimer’s help support line available 24/7 is 1-800-272-3900.
Article Sources: Alzheimer’s Association and National Institute on Aging.
