Can You Tell The Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Natural Aging?

Can you tell the difference between Alzheimer’s or Simple Aging? Sometimes it’s difficult to know the difference–

Memory loss is common, particularly among men and women over the age of 65. This could be a simple moment of forgetfulness or it may represent something far more serious. The reality is that people are diagnosed with dementia and progressive brain diseases, like Alzheimer’s, every single day. Unfortunately, proper diagnosis is often delayed.

So the question is common. “Can you tell the difference between Alzheimer’s and Natural Aging.”

Why does this happen? It can be difficult to determine the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and age related memory loss.

As you age, your memory will begin to change. This is completely normal. You may notice this happening more often or you may not notice any significant changes at all. The severity of age related memory loss will vary from person to person.

For instance, you may find that you have left your shopping list at home or have missed a dental appointment. These things are bound to happen from time to time…. and for the most part, they are nothing to be concerned about. However, with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease on the rise, it is important to be aware of the common symptoms.

While it’s true that memory loss and aging are fairly normal, there are certain things to look out for. One example? Ask yourself if your memory loss has ever affected your day-to-day life. Perhaps you forget about an important date, event, or even someone’s name. Or maybe you have found that you need to rely on memory aids, like to-do lists and pre-set alarms more and more frequently.

Anytime that memory loss begins to impede your daily life, it is a good idea to take note, speak to a friend or family member, or schedule an appointment with your doctor. Remember: while memory loss is normal, memory loss that affects your typical day is not.

Other memory loss issues related to Alzheimer’s disease include difficulty processing and retaining information, solving problems, making good financial decisions, trouble determining the time, date, or where you are at any given moment, misplacing objects or belongings, problems thinking of the right words to use, feelings of isolation or being withdrawn, as well as any changes in general mood or behaviour.

Knowing the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease can help you determine the difference between what is normal – and what you should keep an eye on.

So, can you actually tell the difference between Alzheimer’s and aging related memory loss? You can, but it is all about being aware.

The key is to understand that it isn’t whether or not memory loss is present. Instead, you need to determine how memory loss is affecting your life.

If you find that completing every tasks seems challenging or you begin to feel less social, this could signal a larger problem. In that case, it is important to speak up! Ignoring the issues won’t make it go away. By turning to friends, family members, and professionals, you can begin exercises to strengthen your brain and find ways to slow down the progression of memory related symptoms.

Memory loss can be scary, but it should never be ignored. As you age, it is more important than ever to understand the common symptoms of serious brain diseases like Alzheimer’s. This knowledge can help you seek out appropriate treatment and care options if necessary…. and get back to living your life.

Author: Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He manages the Age Matters Clinic   in Toronto, Ontario.

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