I’m in my 50s and I forget things. Did I pick up new printer cartridges, or did I just think about getting them? You suddenly realise to your dismay that your once pin-sharp recall is playing tricks on you! Are you experiencing more and more “senior moments”? With these memory blips comes the inevitable worrying question: Is it “normal” forgetfulness, or the first signs of creeping dementia?

Increasingly, research indicates that feeling you are forgetful, may be cause for concern. It is found that seniors with subjective memory complaints are, over many years, 4.5 times more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia than those who do not have such memory complaints. Not remembering a telephone number or a lunch date is something that most people, without dementia, experience from time to time. In the early stages of dementia family members, friends or colleagues will be the first to notice that something is wrong. You may forget social engagements at an increasing rate, or repeat questions often. Maybe colleagues at work have expressed concern when you forget to attend a meeting or are unable to learn a new computer program. Problems with judgement and planning may be noticeable. More profound memory lapses are more of a red flag, such as getting lost in the neighbourhood while driving home from the grocery store or to forget what day it is.

The primary difference between age-related memory loss and dementia is that the former isn’t disabling. The memory lapses have little impact on your daily life and your ability to do what you want to do. When memory loss becomes so pervasive and severe that it disrupts work, hobbies social activities and relationships, you may be experiencing the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease or another disorder that causes dementia.

Understanding “normal” forgetfulness can help us to adjust more gracefully to the challenges of healthy ageing. We need to give ourselves and our loved ones more time to recall events, names and words as we age, because “normal” recall can take longer. Prevention is the best strategy for avoiding mild cognitive impairment progressing into dementia. Exercise is the best defence. According to a recent study by the Mayo Clinic, exercise might even reverse mild cognitive impairment and cut the risk of dementia by 50%! Get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly. Poorly controlled diabetes could also put you at risk of developing vascular dementia.

Anyone who has concerns about being forgetful or has signs and symptoms of dementia should contact their doctor immediately. Conversations about memory are often avoided, and this is a dangerous mistake.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.