When you get older, you may wonder what normal age-related memory loss is and when it’s a sign of a cognitive condition. While memory loss from aging is common, differentiating the signs between normal memory loss and Dementia keeps you and your loved ones informed. At Fox Trail Memory Care Living, we provide comprehensive memory care services to residents in North and Central New Jersey. Here, we discuss normal age-related memory loss vs. Dementia-related memory impairment.
Age-Related Forgetfulness That Is Normal
Forgetfulness is expected during the aging process, especially during later years. Normal age-related memory loss refers to the mild memory lapses that occur when growing older. Seniors often experience lapses in memory, as it’s a common part of the cognitive changes that occur when aging. Some signs of memory loss caused by aging include:
- Forgetting something you were told a short while ago
- Misplacing things from time to time, like your phone, glasses, or keys
- Taking longer to work on new tasks, such as setting up a new device
- Making an occasional mistake with payments but being able to manage overall budgets
- Missing an appointment or birthday occasionally
- Struggling to find the right word
- Getting confused about the day or week but remembering later
While part of the aging process can cause some memory loss and forgetfulness, it’s essential to keep track of your symptoms. Keep your doctor informed of any memory lapses, as consistently forgetting information can indicate a more serious condition.
Signs of Memory Loss from Dementia
Although occasional forgetfulness is normal with aging, there are some signs that memory loss may be a symptom of a cognitive condition like Dementia. Forgetting recent conversations and difficulty following familiar routes can be early signs of Dementia. While a senior might sometimes forget where things are, putting things in unusual places and being unable to retrace steps to find them is another sign of Dementia. For example, placing your keys in your fridge and being unable to find them repeatedly could point to the disease.
Other signs might include issues with language and confusion. Communication often becomes more difficult, and finding the right words can be challenging. Other memory changes may include forgetting recently learned information, asking for the same information repeatedly, or relying heavily on reminders such as notes or devices.
Understanding the differences between normal memory loss and signs of Dementia is essential for diagnosis and self-reflection during later years. Dementia symptoms can also point to other conditions – for example, difficulty carrying out everyday tasks, such as food shopping and driving, can also be signs of Alzheimer’s disease. If you suspect your memory loss may be more than normal aging, it’s important to speak with your doctor for more information.
Memory Loss and the Impact on Daily Life
Memory loss is considered abnormal when it greatly impacts daily life and activities, including getting dressed, making meals, doing chores around the house, and paying bills. While memory loss is a part of aging, even mild cognitive impairment can still impact everyday life, affecting the individual and their loved ones as they navigate the situation.
Because those with memory loss caused by Dementia can have difficulty performing daily tasks, their overall quality of life is impacted. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome these difficulties, such as turning to a memory care community for support and resources. Having a dedicated environment that is designed for individuals with cognitive impairments helps them maintain brain activity and keep them safe.
While being diagnosed with a cognitive impairment like Dementia can cause concerns for family members, Fox Trail Memory Care Living provides memory care for loved ones. Our memory care ensures a comforting and sociable environment, including private apartments and living quarters that help residents maintain some independence.
Our amenities are numerous and provide something for everyone. Fox Trail Memory Care Living provides walking paths, gardens, and outdoor spaces for residents, as well as a variety of engagement through our SPARK! program. Our memory care communities supply residents with home-cooked meals served in our communal kitchen, as well as housekeeping and laundry services. We also provide holistic approaches to medical interventions and professional medical care via our HOPE Program, which integrates medical care and medication management assistance into our residents’ daily routines.
Exploring Memory Care at Fox Trail Memory Care Living
Memory loss, whether age-related or caused by a cognitive disorder, may feel overwhelming. Fortunately, the professionals at Fox Trail Memory Care Living help provide guidance during this time. Schedule a tour today to explore our communities in Central and Northern NJ. To learn more about what age-related memory loss is vs. cognitive impairment from a disease, contact us for more information.