Forgetfulness can be an early warning sign of dementia, but it can also be part of the normal aging process. The crucial question is: How can you tell the difference? Here at Neuropsychology Rehabilitation Services/LifeSpan (NRS|LS), we have been addressing this question for many years; however, with the assistance of the neuropsychological examination (NPE), we have been able to note a difference in patterns regarding clinical populations.
By the time we reach our mid-40s, there is a cognitive change in the average person. That change or cognitive decline is normal. It is generally stable but slowly worsens with time. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and forms of dementia, however, intensifies the person’s difficulties to a greater degree.
MCI is the middle stage between normal aging and the beginnings of dementia. In MCI, forgetfulness and other thinking changes occurs, but it does not substantially interfere with daily functioning. With dementia, forgetfulness, language changes, confusion, etc. now becomes more severe.
Here are some common differences between normal aging and signs of dementia:
- It is normal to temporarily forget an acquaintance’s name; it is not normal to forget the names of family members.
- It is normal to misplace things such as car keys; it is not normal to put them in unusual places, such as in the refrigerator.
- It is normal to need to think longer about things or have problems multitasking, but it is not normal to get easily confused.
- It is common to have trouble finding the right words, but it is not common to have trouble taking part in conversations.
- It is normal to forget the day of the week, but it is not normal to forget the season or year.
- It is normal to feel down occasionally, but it is not normal to withdraw or lose interest in activities that you once enjoyed.
- It is normal to get irritable when a routine is broken, but it is abnormal to get upset when in a new place.
- Getting lost while driving, frequent fender benders or traffic violations.
- Repeating the same questions over and over.
- Others notice thinking changes more than the person does who often will deny his/her problems or cover up their mistakes.
While the progression of dementia cannot be stopped, drugs and lifestyle modifications, particularly with MCI can stabilize your condition for as long as several years. Regular exercise, and maintaining social contacts, reduce stress, and supplements are very helpful.
If you notice that either you or a loved one is struggling with the situations mentioned above, please give us a call for a neuropsychological consultation. Our staff can direct you in a proper course of action and provide answers for what is going on.
Robert B. Sica, PhD, ABN
Board Certified, Neuropsychology
Principal and Director of NRS|LS