Age-related memory and cognitive changes are likely. You may be slow on learning something, lose keys from time to time, or forget a recent conversation. Most of these episodes occur as part of the normal ageing process.
It is important to note that normal aging, which simply means normal age progressions, differs significantly from more serious memory problems. Knowing this difference is what helps you understand when it is time to visit a medical practitioner.
Normal age progression vs. serious memory problems
Normal age progression:The brain undergoes tremendous change with age. For instance, one can forget where one put something or forget to pay a bill at times. Such lapses in memory usually do not get harmful and do not interfere too much with activities.
Severe Memory Disorders
Some of these might be glaring signs of a larger issue, though—for instance, when memory problems begin to interfere with daily functions, such as driving, answering phone calls, or finding your way home. Be on the lookout for these red flags:
You keep asking the same questions repeat2
You are getting lost around familiar places.
You are unable to read through recipes or instructions.
You are confused about time, people, or places.
You have neglected personal hygiene—for instance, the way you eat or bathe.
If you also notice such symptoms, then do visit a doctor. He will conduct some tests to find out the reason behind your lost memory and may send you to a neurologist for further study.
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
A mild cognitive impairment is the condition of more memory or thinking problems than normal for their age but with the ability to perform daily tasks. Although in some cases MCI is actually an early indicator of Alzheimer’s, not every sufferer from MCI will eventually have Alzheimer’s.
If you experience changes in your memory, be sure to speak with your doctor. Learning the signs and getting an accurate diagnosis are major parts of managing your cognitive health.
Dementia vs. Forgetfulness
Dementia is more than just forgetting things. Dementia is a marked decline from previous levels of function in two or more of the following: thinking, remembering, learning, focussing, or problem-solving, that interferes with work or other daily activities. The following features distinguish dementia from normal age-related forgetfulness:
End
Language or communicative problem
Eyes and vision problems
Personality changes
Dementia comes in different forms. Some of the forms include:
Alzheimer’s disease
Lewy body dementia
Frontotemporal dementia
Vascular dementia
Symptoms vary depending on the dementia and the patient.
Other Causes of Memory Disorder
Some of the conditions are not resultant of ageing or dementia; these are:
Brain Injuries: Head injuries from a traumatic brain injury like concussions lead to memory disorders.
Thyroid, kidney, or liver ailments: Such health conditions may result in decreased cognitive ability.
Medication: Some medications might have an adverse effect on memory.
Psychological Ailment: Depression and anxiety can lead to a decreased memory.
Substance: Abuse of alcohol and substance abuse cause memory.
Sleep Disorder: Lack of proper sleep in the body affects the head.
Nutritional Deficiency: Lack of nutrient supply in the body; vitamin B12 deficiency may hamper memory.
For instance, changes in life, such as retirement or the loss of a loved one, can cause stress and emotional pressure that can disrupt memory. In most cases, this is reversible and improves with time as emotional well-being stabilises.
What If You Are Worried
If your problem with memory is chronic, you should see a doctor who will help you determine a cause. After a diagnosis, your physician will be able to outline the appropriate treatment and management options.
Follow-up visits can be scheduled every six to 12 months for monitoring of memory and rapid intervention if any problems arise.
Conclusion:
Naturally, with ageing, changes occur in manifestation of memory and cognitive function. Acceptable normal forgetfulness sometimes is normal, but pertinent changes require talking to your doctor. Elucidating what particular problem is normal with ageing and what is a serious problem limitation in memory forms a core component of quality of life and cognitive health.
