Memory
and Aging:
What Memory Loss is Considered Normal?
As we age our memories begin to
weaken. In our 20s our brain cells begin to breakdown slowly. As
time goes by this slow deterioration continues and, in some cases,
the memory loss evolves into more serious conditions like Alzheimer’s
disease and dementia. In other cases, however, a certain amount
of memory loss is to be expected. Understanding how to tell the
difference between typical memory loss as a result of aging, and
more serious memory loss conditions is important.
Some of the main symptoms of typical memory loss with aging are:
- Trouble remembering names
- Forgetting where you place things
- Forgetting appointments or commitments
Some signs that you might want to watch
out for that may be symptoms of a deeper memory issue are:
- Forgetting parts of your normal daily routine
- Difficulty making choices
- Repeating yourself within the same conversation
- Inability to learn new things
- Loosing track of what happened to you throughout
the day
Memory loss with age is normal; there are
tricks you can use to help cope. You can keep detailed lists, make
sure you keep a calendar of appointments and other to-do items,
and you can do brain related exercises like crossword puzzles or
even just running through the alphabet in your mind. You know your
mind better than anyone else does so you are the best judge as to
what sort of brain exercises will be the most useful to you. Also,
you are the best judge as far as knowing whether or not your memory
loss issues are normal or not.
If you suspect that your memory loss may be more serious than typically
seen with aging, be sure to contact your healthcare provider and
tell him or her about your concerns. There are steps that can be
taken to ensure your memory lasts.
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