Some cognitive decline is a normal part of the aging process. However, it can indicate serious problems such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
For example, if you forget where you put your keys or can’t balance your checkbook, it is worth talking to your doctor about it.
You’re Forgetting Things
As we age, it’s normal to forget things more often. Memory scientists believe that forgetting information that isn’t used regularly helps to clear the brain of unused memories so newer ones can take their place.
But you should consult your doctor if you suddenly need to remember more often than usual. A small age related cognitive decline may be normal, but a significant change could indicate an underlying health problem.
There is a line between “normal” aging and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or early dementia. The difference is usually a matter of degrees, with MCI resulting in changes to your memory, language, thinking, and judgment that are greater than what’s normally expected with age. It also affects how well you can do the tasks that are part of your daily life, such as following a recipe or paying bills.
You’re Not Remembering Things
As people age, they experience changes in their thinking skills and memory. These are often a normal part of the aging process but can be signs of serious health issues such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Everyone needs to remember things occasionally, such as misplacing keys or blanking on someone’s name. However, if memory lapses become frequent or noticeable to friends and family members, seeing your doctor for an examination is a good idea.
It’s also important to avoid medications known to cause memory loss, such as sleep aids like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and medicines to treat urinary urgency, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan XL). In addition, mental exercise is extremely beneficial for keeping the brain sharp. Try to focus on puzzles and activities that challenge your thinking skills.
You’re Not Communicating
The sharpness of your thinking and your ability to connect with others are central to who you are. A small amount of cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, but significant changes can indicate a brain disorder or other health issues.
If your loved one is experiencing forgetfulness or confusion, talking to a doctor is important. Often, seniors don’t realize their problems are significant or may be unwilling to reveal them to family members.
The doctors will ask about the symptoms you’re noticing and conduct an office-based test. Depending on your loved one’s symptoms, the doctor may recommend some simple tests for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease or other tests to check their general well-being and health habits. A thorough physical exam is usually recommended, too.
You’re Avoiding Social Interaction
When you start to notice mental lapses, it is important to have them checked out to ensure they aren’t a symptom of depression or other health issues. Often, depression masks itself as cognitive symptoms. Sometimes, your doctor may diagnose you with pseudodementia, depression that manifests as forgetfulness and difficulty keeping track of daily tasks.
Some memory issues are normal with age, but if you’re constantly forgetting names or finding it harder to process information, that could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease or another serious condition. Using calendars, planners, and notepads to keep track of events can help, as can staying active and socially engaging. It would help if you tried avoiding isolation and using your friends and family as support networks.
You’re Losing Interest
While losing interest in hobbies and interests over time is normal, a sudden or severe loss may indicate a mental health condition. If you or a loved one is losing interest in things they normally enjoy, talking to a mental health professional may help them find new passions and overcome depression.
Cognitive decline varies from person to person. Sometimes, a small decline may be caused by hypothyroidism or a vitamin deficiency. Other times, it can be a sign of a serious condition like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
To keep the brain healthy and prevent cognitive decline, engaging in mental exercises is important. Try playing games that require strategy, word or number puzzles, and crosswords. Also, eat a well-balanced diet and get plenty of exercise.
