Do you have memory problems? Here’s how to say whether it is dementia or just aging

Who did not forget about the name, sometimes lost things or stumbled over the right word during the conversation? However, along with the growing awareness about dementia, these occasional falls of memory often make people wonder if it could be an early sign of dementia.

When people get old, you may notice that remembering things takes a little longer than it used to be, but most of the time there is no reason to worry. This occasional oblivion is called age -related memory impairment and is a normal part of aging. Although this may seem frustrating, this does not mean that you have dementia.

Although many people are wrong Normal aging Along with dementia, both are very different. Dementia often begins with mild memory loss, but over time it gradually worsens. In normal changes in memory related to age, oblivion is occasional and usually includes memories of a more distant past. On the other hand, people with dementia often struggle with recent events, such as forgetting about the conversation they conducted earlier that day or without recognizing someone they just met.

Dementia is not only Memory loss. It also provides confusion, difficulties in managing daily tasks, problems with language and understanding, and noticeable changes in behavior. Over time, these challenges disrupt the person’s ability to perform daily activities and can significantly affect their independence.

It is important, however, to remember that noticing symptoms such as memory loss or confusion is not enough to diagnose dementia. Only a health care worker can make this diagnosis after a thorough assessment. This usually includes medical history, cognitive tests, physical tests, and sometimes brain imaging to exclude other possible causes.

Memory problems can also result from various other reasons, including head injuries, such as brain shocks, brain tumors or infections, thyroid problems or organs, side effects, mental diseases such as depression and anxiety, improper use of substances, sleep disorders, and even deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 and bad nutrition.

When to see a doctor?

If memory problems begin to disturb your daily lives, it is important to see a doctor. The warning signs include repeating the same questions over and over again, the stomach in known places or the struggle for personal care management.

In some cases, older adults may diagnose mild cognitive disorders (MCI), a state in which memory or thinking problems are more noticeable than in other age. However, unlike dementia, people from MCI can usually independently manage their daily activities, but sometimes it can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease.