How to Tell the Difference Between Normal Age-Related Memory Changes and Dementia

Occasional memory lapses are a fairly normal part of aging. But increasingly frequent episodes or personality changes could be a warning sign that something more serious is developing.

Have you ever walked into your kitchen with a clear intention, only to find yourself standing there, completely baffled about why you entered in the first place? If so, you’re not alone. Forgetfulness, to some extent, is a common part of the aging process. However, it’s essential to distinguish between normal age-related memory changes and signs that might indicate a more serious condition, such as dementia.

Normal Memory Changes as You Age

As you age, your brain undergoes natural changes, just like the rest of your body. One of these changes involves a shrinking of the brain, including the frontal cortex. This region of the brain plays a crucial role in higher cognitive functions like thinking, decision-making, and memory. As the frontal cortex ages, it may require additional support to maintain its cognitive abilities.

To compensate for these changes, your brain employs various neural networks to help you remember things. However, when these networks start to overlap or mix, you may experience a decline in your ability to focus and recall information.

Dr. Carolyn Fredericks, an assistant professor at the Yale School of Medicine, explains, “We know that as we age, the organization of our brain networks changes. Networks that typically work separately from each other during tasks become more interconnected—less functionally segregated, in more technical terms.”

In some cases, age-related changes in memory may worsen, leading to a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This condition represents a step beyond normal age-related memory loss but falls short of the severity associated with dementia. Individuals with MCI may frequently lose objects, forget important events, or struggle to find the right words.

It’s worth noting that while MCI is not as severe as dementia, it could be a precursor, as approximately half of those with MCI progress to develop dementia, according to Dr. Lisa Billars, MD, chief of neurology and sleep medicine at Kaiser Permanente in Atlanta.

Recognizing Early Signs of Dementia

Dementia is not a natural part of aging. Although your brain does undergo age-related changes, the neurological alterations associated with dementia are distinct. Researchers are still investigating the potential causes of dementia, but it’s crucial to differentiate between typical age-related memory changes and the warning signs of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association provides a list of warning signs associated with Alzheimer’s disease that warrant consultation with a healthcare provider:

1. Memory loss interfering with daily activities.
2. Difficulty solving problems.
3. Struggles with familiar tasks.
4. Confusion about dates, times, and places.
5. Problems with visual and spatial perception.
6. Challenges with language, both spoken and written.
7. Misplacing items and inability to retrace steps.
8. Poor judgment and decision-making.
9. Social withdrawal and personality changes.

For instance, if someone who loves cooking and spends ample time in the kitchen begins having trouble reading and following a recipe, it could serve as a warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

It’s important to note that Alzheimer’s disease is just one form of dementia. Other types include vascular dementia, which can develop after a stroke; Parkinson’s disease dementia, characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in nerve cells; Lewy body dementia, featuring progressive function decline, visual hallucinations, and sleep disturbances; and frontotemporal dementia, a less common variant marked by personality changes and language difficulties.

In some cases, individuals may experience mixed dementia, where different forms of dementia coexist, affecting various parts of the brain.

When Should You Be Concerned About Memory Issues?

While occasional memory lapses are normal, frequent or disruptive memory issues should not be taken lightly. Dr. Carolyn Fredericks advises vigilance when signs of forgetfulness or confusion begin occurring more frequently than usual.

“Everyone misplaces their keys occasionally, but when any of these things begin happening much more frequently than before, it could potentially indicate the beginnings of a brain problem,” says Dr. Fredericks.

It’s crucial to recognize that early signs of dementia extend beyond cognitive changes. Individuals in the initial stages of dementia may be more aware of memory alterations but less likely to notice shifts in their personality or relationships.

Even if it’s challenging to broach the subject, if you observe these changes in a loved one, suggesting a medical evaluation is a responsible course of action. Timely assessment is vital for receiving counseling on potential treatments and developing a plan for the future.

Dr. Lisa Billars emphasizes the importance of seeking evaluation sooner rather than later to address safety concerns and protect the individual’s overall well-being.

Ruling Out Other Possible Causes

Sometimes, memory changes and shifts in relationships may be linked to mild or reversible health conditions. Various medical issues can mimic dementia, underscoring the importance of consulting a healthcare provider when memory problems or confusion arise. These conditions, often referred to as “reversible dementias,” encompass sleep apnea, infections such as encephalitis and meningitis, tumors, hypothyroidism, and medication side effects.

Research also suggests that certain chronic medical conditions may elevate the risk of developing dementia. For instance, chronically elevated blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes are associated with an increased risk of memory changes. Therefore, addressing these underlying conditions can lead to improvements in memory and cognitive function.

Understanding and addressing modifiable risk factors, such as those identified by the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, can also play a pivotal role in managing memory issues. These factors include hypertension, hearing impairment, lower education levels, obesity, depression, smoking, physical inactivity, low social contact, air pollution, excessive alcohol consumption, and traumatic brain injury.

In summary, while occasional memory lapses are part of the natural aging process, it’s essential to distinguish them from potential warning signs of dementia. Early recognition and evaluation by healthcare professionals are crucial for timely interventions and ensuring the well-being of individuals facing memory challenges. So, if you or a loved one are concerned that memory issues may extend beyond normal aging, it’s advisable to seek medical guidance sooner rather than later.