Is It Alzheimer's or Normal Aging? How to Tell the Difference

May 25th, 2017 by admin

As people grow older, connections in the brain often start to change. Some memory changes are a normal part of aging, but when memory loss disrupts someone's daily life, that's usually a sign of something more serious. Unfortunately, one in three seniors passes away with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia; while this condition cannot be cured, early detection can allow seniors to get the assistance they need at senior memory care centers. Knowing the early warning signs, and recognizing the difference between them and normal signs of aging, will go a long way.

Dementia Vs. Aging: How Can You Tell the Difference?

It is fairly normal to experience a singular lapse in judgment or to forget a word or to complete a task every once in a while. As long as memory problems are not a daily disruption, they fall within the normal behavior range as you grow older. According to the Alzheimer's Association, forgetting to make a single payment or grasping for one word is fairly normal, but not being able to balance your budget or hold a conversation is a very different matter.

It can be difficult to recognize the differences in regular memory lapses and dementia, but the easiest way to identify them is through their severity and frequency. For example, aging seniors without dementia and seniors in Alzheimer's care centers will both experience some degree of memory loss, but while aging seniors may forget a name or an appointment, they'll often remember those details later on. Those in senior memory care units or who are experiencing the early stages of dementia may forget recently learned information or important dates, or they may rely on friends, family, or care aides to help them remember.

Task completion

can be tough for many seniors; however, an aging senior can usually complete familiar tasks without trouble, they may just need some extra assistance with technology or a task that causes them discomfort. If someone has trouble getting to a familiar location or remembering how to play a game they love, that could be a sign that a dementia care plan may be a next step.

Confusion about time and place

is common among those in senior memory care facilities. While aging seniors may temporarily forget what day it is, those with dementia conditions may completely lose track of time. Days, weeks, and even years may not hold a lot of meaning, and they may forget how they got where they are. If your aging loved one is frequently confused about location or time, it's possible that a memory care facility may be the best place for them.

Language changes

can also indicate memory issues. Some seniors may not be able to find just the right word, but that often happens at any age; however, if you notice a loved one is repeating certain phrases, struggling with vocabulary on a consistent basis, having trouble following or joining a conversation, or calling things by the wrong name, these new developments shouldn't be ignored.

There are several other early warning signs of Alzheimer's to watch out for. The Alzheimer's Association has numerous helpful resources for seniors and their families. If you recognize any of these early warning signs, be sure to make an appointment with your family doctor right away, and discern whether a dementia care plan might be in order.

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