When Memory Changes Raise Concerns: Navigating Normal Aging vs. Dementia

When a loved one begins to experience changes in their memory, language, or cognitive skills, it raises the question, “Is this Dementia? Or Is this normal aging?” 

To help you navigate the differences, I created a free resource that will guide you through some common areas of concern. 

Here are some of the highlights: 

Memory: 

As someone ages, it is typical for us to notice them becoming more forgetful, such as forgetting where they have placed an item around the house, forgetting the names of people, or forgetting that they have already told you a story. However, we become more concerned when a loved one’s memory loss starts interfering with their everyday activities. For example, they forget if they’ve taken their medications, get lost while driving, forget where they are driving, and forget to pay monthly bills. 

Cognitive Skills: 

As people age, it is normal for them to take longer to complete new tasks and for them to have more trouble with tasks that require a lot of thinking, like balancing the checkbook, filling in a pill box, etc. But when someone has trouble completing simple tasks that they’ve done for years, like laundry or cooking, we start to become concerned. 

Language Skills: 

 It is common to see older adults “getting stuck on their words” or “have the word on the tip of their tongue”. Especially when talking about abstract concepts or a very specific item. It is also normal for an aging adult to occasionally use the wrong word within a conversation, but generally, they should be able to correct and identify the right word. It’s time to be concerned when an individual has trouble coming up with common words, places, or names or has frequent stops or pauses in their speech. Someone experiencing abnormal changes may also have difficulty following directions and participating in one-on-one conversations. 

Mood/Personality: 

As adults age, you may notice that they sometimes feel reluctant to join in activities or anxious about joining in some activities. This is generally fairly common because older adults may have difficulty hearing or have physical concerns that make them hesitant about participating. However, when an aging adult withdraws from preferred activities or hobbies that they were previously very interested in, is unusually sad, anxious, scared, or becomes easily angry, it's time to be concerned. 

If you are concerned that a loved one may be experiencing some of these symptoms, start by checking in with their Family doctor or PCP. Ask questions and share the symptoms you are experiencing. If the doctor agrees with the concerns, ask for a referral to a neurologist. 

If you notice signs of memory loss, cognitive decline, language difficulties, or personality changes in an aging loved one that go beyond normal aging, it's crucial to take action. Don't wait—early intervention can make a significant difference in managing conditions like dementia. To help you identify the signs and determine when to seek professional evaluation, download my free guide "Normal Aging vs When to be Concerned" here. This comprehensive resource provides a detailed checklist and valuable insights to empower you in supporting your loved one's well-being. Protect their quality of life by being informed and proactive. Sign up now to receive the guide directly to your inbox.