While there are some common changes that happen as we get older, not all symptoms you notice are normal signs of aging. Knowing more about what is normal, and what isn’t, can empower you to make an appointment with your physician and talk about your concerns. For example, normal forgetfulness is not something to necessarily be worried about and most importantly, not all forgetfulness is a sign of dementia.
Here’s what you and your family can keep in mind in regard to normal forgetfulness vs. dementia.
Is Forgetfulness a Sign of Dementia?
We’ve all walked into a room and couldn’t remember why, or misplaced our keys. These are signs of normal forgetfulness that we all experience, no matter our age. If you find yourself unable to recall small details about a trip or conversation that took place a year ago, you can chalk it up to normal forgetfulness. Forgot where you put your wallet again? Normal forgetfulness.
The biggest difference between forgetfulness and dementia is how it affects your daily life. Normal forgetfulness is frustrating, certainly, but it doesn’t affect the majority of your day. Dementia, on the other hand, causes forgetfulness, confusion, and an inability to stay organized which can affect daily life.
Signs of Dementia
When comparing forgetfulness that comes with aging vs. dementia, it’s important to recognize that daily life component. For example, if you cannot find your keys every day, or your wallet shows up in strange places like the bathroom cabinet or mailbox regularly, it can make you feel stressed out and confused on a daily basis. This type of forgetfulness can be a sign of dementia.
Other forgetfulness that might be dementia-related include not being able to recall details about a conversation you had a few days ago, having word-finding difficulties multiple times throughout a conversation, or the inability to keep up with tasks like paying the bills or organizing your budget.
Again, occasional word finding is normal, but if it becomes a regular occurrence and is making you and your family members worried, a doctor’s visit is your next best step.
When It’s Time to Call the Doctor
Your primary care physician is there to support you whenever you need them. If you are worried that your forgetfulness or word-finding skills are affecting your daily life, make an appointment. Speak candidly with your doctor about your concerns. They will listen to what you are experiencing as well as ask questions related to your nutrition, hydration habits, and medication schedule.
You might find that your increased forgetfulness is due to an infection or a new medication side effect. Or, your doctor might recommend additional testing with a geriatric neurologist in order to determine your next steps.
Early Detection Leads to Early Treatment
Thanks to more awareness, adults living with dementia are being diagnosed earlier in the disease process than they were just a decade ago. While getting a dementia diagnosis is scary and comes with many emotions, an early diagnosis can also be quite beneficial. The older adult can become more proactive in their future planning, create memories with their loved ones more intentionally while they are able to, and ensure their wishes are known.
If you or a loved one are currently living with a new dementia diagnosis, there are resources in your community that can support you. As you begin to plan for the future, contact a Legend Senior Living residence near you to learn more about upcoming dementia-related presentations and other resources that can empower you to make your next best decisions.
Contact a Legend Senior Living Residence Near You