Is Dementia a Normal Part of Aging?

It is normal to feel concerned about memory loss as you age. In fact, with 5 million adults suffering from dementia, it is not surprising that some might worry about cognitive decline. However, dementia is serious, and any symptoms should be considered time sensitive.  

Understanding Dementia

Contrary to popular belief, dementia is not a specific disease. Dementia is a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think or make decisions that interfere with doing everyday activities, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For example, Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. And while dementia mostly impacts adults over age 65, it is not a normal part of aging.

The CDC states people with dementia may have problems with:

• Memory loss, including names, locations and time
• Misplacing things
• Communication
• Reasoning, judgment, and problem solving
• Mood or personality changes, like anxiety, depression and anger

How is Dementia Diagnosed?

If you are not sure you are experiencing dementia, your provider can perform a series of tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms. Some of these might include tests on attention, memory, problem solving and other cognitive abilities to see if there is cause for concern. There are also more detailed exams, like blood tests, a CT scan, or MRI scan that can help determine the underlying cause.

What to Do if You Experience Signs of Memory Loss

Early detection matters when it comes to memory loss. If you notice any of the above symptoms of dementia, seek treatment from your primary care provider. Your healthcare provider can perform tests to see if there is an underlying cause. With early detection, you may have more treatment options available to help relieve your symptoms.  

How Compass Rose Aging Well Can Help  

Facing cognitive decline is scary — it can interfere with your enjoyment of life, your relationships and your goals for the future. Compass Rose Aging Well is here to help you cope. Our Aging Well Resource Coordinator can help you:  

• Learn more about memory loss, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Find enjoyable ways to help keep your mind active  
• Create strategies to help you keep track of appointments, upcoming events, medications, etc.  
• Make changes to your daily routine  
• Coordinate with providers to help manage your care