When is Forgetfulness a Sign of Something More Serious?

Home Care in Wellsley, MA – Sometimes Memory Loss Due to Aging is Normal, Sometimes It Isn’t

As many of us may know, forgetting things when we get older is not an uncommon occurrence. Throughout much of our life, we forget simple things like car keys, wallets and purses, or small things around the house. For most people, this is a by-product of many things that have nothing to do with illness or disease.

Most of the things we forget are usually the result of busy life, as there are only so many things that can fit into our “mental calendar.” As people grow older, it isn’t uncommon to forget these same things and maybe a few more.

Aging and Memory Loss

While there has been some talk about a link between being forgetful and memory loss disorders and diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s, memory loss is often a common part of the aging process. Many older adults have trouble retaining information, remembering details, or even learning new things. Again, it can be very common for elderly adults to forget simple things like glasses and other small objects.

Much of this has to do with changes in the brain as we age. Depending on the symptoms, certain types of memory loss are just that: a normal process of storing and forgetting memories as we age. Some other types of memory loss can be:

• The result of medications or vitamin deficiencies
• Abuse of alcohol or other drugs
• Emotional stress or severe changes in living conditions
• Changes in a long standing routine or recent changes in health

Care for Elders with Memory Loss

Many of these problems are common parts of the aging process. With support and help from home care services, an older loved one can recover much of their cognitive function. What many families and caregivers should be more aware of are the signs of more serious memory lapses like dementia.

Diagnosing dementia and other serious cognitive disorders usually takes a long study of a person’s health, symptoms, and work with specialists. As there is no test that confirms Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, doctors often have to rule out all other types of illness. Talk to your senior’s physician about any concerns and questions you may have about memory and aging.

While this can be a long process, it will help you provide the best care and prognosis for a loved one suffering from a memory issue. Your loved one’s happiness in life does depend somewhat on their memories, and when those memories start to deteriorate, it can be a scary time in their life. Support your loved one by showing you care, visiting often, and getting them the help they need.