Memory Loss in Aging? What Doctors Should Check

• A decline in the hippocampus, which is a brain region involved in forming new memories.
• A decrease in the production of certain neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that help brain cells communicate with each other.
• A buildup of plaque and tangles in the brain, which can damage brain cells and interfere with memory function.

Normal age-related memory loss typically manifests as:

• Occasional difficulty remembering names or recent events
• Misplacing things
• Taking longer to learn new things
• Forgetting appointments

These memory problems are usually not severe enough to interfere with daily life.

Dementia

Dementia is a more serious form of memory loss that can significantly impair a person’s ability to function independently. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Other causes of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

Symptoms of dementia can include:

• Severe memory loss
• Difficulty with language
• Problems with reasoning and judgment
• Changes in personality and behavior
• Loss of motor skills

Dementia is a progressive disease that worsens over time. There is no cure for dementia, but there are treatments that can help to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

When to see a doctor

If you are concerned about memory loss, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve quality of life and slow the progression of dementia.

Here are some things to look out for:

• Memory loss that is interfering with your daily life
• Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Repeating yourself
• Having trouble finding the right words

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please see a doctor right away.