Introduction
Memory lapses and minor cognitive decline are common as one age. There is, however, a distinction between normal memory changes and memory loss associated with neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. In addition, some memory problems are caused by treatable conditions.
The brain can generate new brain cells at any age; therefore, severe memory loss is not an inevitable result of aging. Lifestyle, habits, and daily activities all have a significant impact on the brain's health. Whatever the age, numerous ways exist to improve cognitive abilities, prevent memory loss, and safeguard grey matter. Furthermore, normal aging has little effect on many mental abilities, such as:
-
The ability to do what one has always done and continue to do frequently.
-
The wisdom and knowledge one has gained through life experience.
-
The natural common sense and ability to construct reasonable arguments and judgments.
When Can Memory Issues Be Considered Normal With Aging?
For most people, short-term memory lapses are a normal part of aging, not a sign of serious mental deterioration or the incidence of Alzheimer's or other dementia. However, memory problems of the following types are common in older adults and are not considered warning signs of dementia:
-
Occasionally forget where they left items they regularly use, such as glasses or keys.
-
Forgetting names of acquaintances or confusing one memory with another, such as calling a grandson by his father's name.
-
Occasionally forget an appointment or enter a room and forget why they are there.
-
Being easily distracted or needing help remembering what they just read or the specifics of a conversation.
-
Not being able to recall information that is "on the tip of the tongue."
Simple forgetfulness (the "missing keys") and a delay or slowing in recalling dates, names, and events are normal parts of the aging process. Memory processes include recalling information, learning new information, and recognizing familiar information. Each of these processes can be disrupted, resulting in forgetfulness. There are also various types of memory, each of which is affected differently by normal aging, as illustrated below.
-
Preserved Memory Functions:
-
Remote memory (ability to recollect events from years ago).
-
Procedural memory (performing tasks).
-
Semantic recall (general knowledge).
-
-
Declining Memory Functions:
-
Learning new information.
-
Remembering new information (it takes longer to learn and remember something new).
-
There are three possible causes of age-related memory loss:
-
The hippocampus, involved in memory formation and retrieval, frequently deteriorates with age.
-
Proteins and hormones that protect and repair brain cells, and those that stimulate neural growth, decline with age.
-
Reduced blood flow to the brain is common in the elderly, which can impair memory and lead to changes in cognitive skills.
What Are the Memory Issues Not Considered Normal Aging?
Normal aging does not include memory problems that begin to interfere with normal daily life and activities. For example, forgetting where one puts their glasses is a common symptom of forgetfulness, disorganization, or aging; however, forgetting what the glasses are for or that they are worn on the face is not a normal memory problem.
Memory loss and thinking difficulties seen in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia are not symptoms of normal aging. Recent studies say mild cognitive impairment is a step toward dementia for some people and a stage between normal aging and early-stage dementia. Not everyone who has mild cognitive impairment may develop dementia. The following list highlights some abnormal memory changes in MCI and dementia.
Memory Issues in People With Mild Cognitive Impairment: Some older adults have a mild cognitive impairment, which means they have more memory or other thinking problems than others their age. Signs of MCI include:
- Forgets recent events, repeats the same stories and questions, occasionally forgets the names of close friends and family members, forgets conversations, often forgets appointments or planned events, and misplaces items.
- Has difficulty coming up with the appropriate words. Has difficulty comprehending written or spoken information.
- Focus is often lost, the individual is prone to be distracted. It is necessary to write reminders to do things to avoid forgetting.
- Although they may struggle, they can complete complex tasks such as taking medications, paying bills, shopping, cooking, cleaning the house, and driving.
- Has many significant memory impairments but is still able to function independently.
Memory Issues in Dementia Patients:
- Dementia does not constitute a normal part of the aging process. Instead, it refers to the loss of cognitive functioning like thinking, remembering, learning, and reasoning, in addition to behavioral abilities that interfere with a person's quality of life and activities. It has many of the same symptoms as MCI, along with the following as dementia progresses:
- Is incapable of carrying out complex daily tasks (for example, taking medications, paying bills, shopping, driving).
- Insight or awareness of memory loss is lost.
- Shows poor judgment.
- Reduced rational thinking and problem-solving ability.
- Memory, language, and cognition deteriorate to the point where self-care tasks cannot be completed without the assistance of another person.
Can Memory Be Preserved as People Age?
The best way to maintain brain health is to exercise (especially aerobics) twice a week, according to the American Academy of Neurology's practice guideline for patients with mild cognitive impairment.
Although there is no clear-cut proven report that doing any of the following will help slow the decline of memory and thinking skills, these are general recommendations for maintaining good health.
-
Maintain normal blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.
-
Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
-
A healthy diet rich in antioxidants and olive oil reduces the risk of dementia. Dash or Mediterranean diets can be considered.
-
Maintain a healthy weight.
-
Stay positive, happy, and grateful.
-
Reduce stress.
-
Make sure to get enough sleep.
-
Exercise (include aerobic exercises, stretching exercises, strength training, and balance training).
-
Train the brain (do quizzes, puzzles, card games, learn a new language or play a new instrument, read, take a class, learn a new skill or hobby).
-
Maintain a social life (share hobbies with like-minded people, join clubs, volunteer).
Is Memory Loss Treatable?
Treatment for memory loss is determined by the nature of the condition and its underlying cause. For example, if memory loss is caused by a mental health condition, such as depression, better management may aid recovery. Simple lifestyle changes for patients in the early stages of dementia may help prevent the disease's progression. New research suggests that one-third of dementia cases could be avoided by changing one's lifestyle. There are also medications available to help treat and slow its progression.
Conclusion
Subtle changes in memory occur as a natural part of the aging process. However, when memory loss hinders us from performing daily tasks and our usual roles in life, it becomes a health concern that requires further evaluation by healthcare professionals. A doctor must be consulted if a family member, or a friend has difficulty in remembering recent events or thinking clearly.
