Aging can take a toll on our minds. One of the biggest problems is dementia. This can seriously limit your mental capacity, affecting day-to-day activities significantly. If detected early, you can take steps to help treat the disease. Despite this, there is no cure. However, it can be hard to tell the difference between normal mental decline and the first signs of dementia. Let’s look at some of the ways that you can distinguish between cognitive aging decline and dementia.
Having a reduction in the ability to remember some memories is considered a normal part of the aging process. However, this is different from dementia, which is more severe. Often, the key to reducing the effects of dementia is having an early diagnosis. This will allow you to take precautions. There are a few key ways to tell normal cognitive aging from dementia. First, it’s normal to be unable to recall details of an event that occurred several years ago. However, you should be able to recall recent events or conversations. It can also be a warning sign if you are unable to recall the names of family or close friends. Another common warning sign is an increase in the frequency in which you are forgetting things. There are also some changes in your behavior that might signal dementia.
Early-onset dementia can also change the way that you behave. For example, you might struggle to remember certain words and phrases. This can lead to more pauses when you are speaking, as you struggle to remember the right word. In addition, you should consult with your family. Often, they will notice your changing behaviors, even if you can’t. If they start to raise concerns, it can be a serious sign that something might be wrong.
When you raise concerns, you need to make sure that you consult with a doctor. They will be able to provide tests to further assess your memory. These tests can be a great way to diagnose whether you could have developed dementia. Once you are diagnosed you can start to prepare, finding ways to manage the disease. For example, you might need to change your routines. If you create a spot where you always place important information, it can ensure that you won’t lose key items, like your keys. It can also give you the chance to start organizing information better, using a calendar.
One of the biggest concerns that older people face is dementia. This disease can have a big impact on their memory, making it difficult to remember who their loved ones are. Though this disease can be devastating, it can be managed if spotted early. To help you do this, we discussed how you can tell the difference between cognitive aging and the first symptoms of dementia. Visiting a doctor can be the most effective way of diagnosing this disease. So, learn to recognize the signs of dementia so that you can spot it early enough to properly prepare.
