[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text margin_bottom=”5″ css=”.vc_custom_1525898990584{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Sometimes it’s difficult to decipher, especially when we are emotionally involved, the difference between normal age-related memory loss and the early warning signs of dementia. Noted will and trust lawyer Jimmy Carter is a specialist in legal issues related Alzheimer’s and dementia, He shares information to help us learn about the differences between the two conditions.
We’ve all had that moment when dealing with an older loved one when their memory slips. When discussing a book they’ve just read, they can’t remember the title. In telling you about a restaurant they adore, they fail to conjure the street where it’s located. Or when running into an acquaintance, they are unable to introduce you because they draw a blank on the person’s name. While the above situations may set off alarm bells, these types of lapses in memory aren’t cause for concern. It’s important to know the difference between normal forgetfulness and the onset of dementia before going into full panic mode.
As we age, physiological changes can affect brain functions and one of the main effects is the slowing of our mental processes. Thus why it might take longer to recall someone’s name or an extended period of time to learn a new concept. The slowing of these mental processes is not the same as memory loss. The information is still there, it just takes a bit longer to access it.
The good news is that the brain is capable of producing new brain cells at any age, so memory loss is not a given with aging. Plus, health habits, activities and lifestyle choices have a large impact on brain health, so each individual has a certain amount of control over memory loss. But that’s a conversation for another time.
Key to keep in mind: many mental abilities are not affected by normal aging. Those include:[/vc_column_text][mk_custom_list style=”mk-moon-square” el_class=”line-height-1_5 custom-list-style custom-list-style-large custom-list-style-top-9″]
- The ability to do things you’ve always done and continue to do
- The wisdom and knowledge acquired from life experience
- Common sense and ability to form reasonable arguments and judgments
[/mk_custom_list][vc_column_text margin_bottom=”5″ css=”.vc_custom_1525139208922{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]This following situation best illustrates when the above abilities start to come into question.[/vc_column_text][vc_message message_box_style=”outline” style=”square” message_box_color=”grey”]Standing in his kitchen, a man in his early-70s told his daughter he was thirsty. When she handed him a glass, assuming he would go to the tap and fill it up as he had always done, a look of confusion overcame his face and it was clear he was unable to process the next steps.[/vc_message][vc_column_text margin_bottom=”5″ css=”.vc_custom_1525139604226{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]That’s when the chills run up the spine and alarm bells are valid — and when it’s imperative to seek out the advice of health professionals for a diagnosis.
The chart helps differentiate between normal forgetfulness and dementia.
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| Normal Age-Related Memory Changes | Dementia Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Occasional memory losses do not affect ability to function independently and pursue normal activities | Difficulty performing simple tasks (paying bills, dressing, showering); forgetting how to do things you’ve done many times |
| Can recall and describe incidents of forgetfulness | Unable to recall or describe specific instances where memory loss caused problems |
| May pause to remember directions, but doesn’t get lost in familiar places | Gets lost or disoriented even in familiar places; unable to follow directions |
| Occasional difficulty finding the right word, but no trouble holding a conversation | Words are frequently forgotten, misused or garbled; Repeats phrases and stories in same conversation |
| No change in judgment and decision-making ability | Trouble making choices; May show poor judgment or behave in socially inappropriate ways |
[/mk_table][vc_column_text margin_bottom=”5″ css=”.vc_custom_1525140198826{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Source: helpguide.org
In following weeks we will further explore more warning signs of dementia and the different types.
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