Dementia versus typical aging: What's normal, what's not
It is normal to experience some declines in our memory as we age. However, how can you distinguish between normal age related changes and other signs that may be more concerning? In particular, many adults who experience some lapses in their memory as they age become concerned that they may be developing dementia. Below we discuss what dementia is and what we can do to reduce our risk of developing neurodegenerative illnesses like dementia. We also explore what types of memory difficulties are associated with normal aging and what is more concerning and should be discussed with your doctor.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a cluster of disorders involving a decline in memory and one or more cognitive deficits (attention, language, or problem solving). Also, by definition, dementia involves a decline in a person’s ability to take care of themselves, which limits their ability to live independently. Dementia is not the same as normal aging. It is a progressive disease that involves abnormal or pathological changes in the brain. The prevalence of dementia is 1.5% at age 65, and the risk doubles every 4 years after the age of 65. However, even with this increasing risk, it is important to keep in mind that only a minority of individuals will go on to develop dementia. Therefore, dementia is not an unavoidable outcome of becoming older.
Risk factors for dementia:
- Depression
- Mid-life hypertension
- Physical inactivity
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Cholesterol
- Smoking
Normal age related memory changes:
- Forgetting the names of common items
- Repeating a comment or question a few seconds later
- Forgetting what you were trying to say
- Forgetting what you walked into a room for
What’s more concerning:
- Forgetting what you did yesterday, even when reminded
- Getting lost on your way to a familiar place
- Disorientation (not knowing time, place, year, etc.)
- Significant decline in self-care
Want to learn more?
Dementia - Dementia and Strategies to Reduce the Risk For these top tips and other helpful information, join St. Joe’s experts Elmar Gardizi and Katherine Jongsma this Saturday, February 24th at 1 a.m. at the Turner Park Branch, Hamilton.
Managing Big Emotions - Do you feel like your emotions sometimes control you? Join us Wednesday, February 21st at 6:30 p.m. at the Central Library, Hamilton.
Insomnia - Pillow Talk, Strategies for Managing Insomnia Join us Thursday, February 22nd at 7 p.m. at the Westdale Library, Hamilton.
Being Mindful - The Basics of Mindfulness Meditation Join us Saturday, February 24th at 1:30 p.m. at the Dundas Branch, Hamilton.
Mind Matters Speaker Series
Hamilton Public Library has partnered with St. Joe’s to create a speaker series dedicated to mental health and wellness. The series will run throughout the month of February across HPL branches and is free for the general public. There are a variety of topics for all ages ranging from insomnia, procrastination, managing big emotions and coping with anxiety. Visit www.stjoes.ca/psychologymonth for full details.