As you age, you may experience what is jokingly referred to as a \u201csenior moment\u201d when trying to remember why you entered a room or where you left your keys.\u00a0 These moments are fairly common, but how do you know if your forgetfulness is the result of natural aging or Alzheimer\u2019s?<\/p>\n
Almost 40 percent of people over the age of 65 experience some form of memory loss without having any medical condition associated with it.\u00a0 This process is known as Age-Associated Memory Impairment.\u00a0 This condition is considered to be part of the natural aging process.<\/p>\n
According to Alz.org, (Alzheimer\u2019s Association) many things change as we age.\u00a0 Our bodies and brain\u2019s slow down and we are less physically and mentally flexible.\u00a0 We may take more time to process information and experience some memory loss causing us to be forgetful of people places and things as we age.<\/p>\n
Some signs of a naturally aging mind are:<\/p>\n
Independent living and being able to conduct day to day activities and maintain interpersonal skills is also a reminder that you are aging naturally. As you age, it is beneficial to keep your mind sharp by remaining active, exercising, playing games that challenge your mind to think such as crossword puzzles or chess.<\/p>\n
Conversely, Alzheimer\u2019s disease is also associated with memory loss. This disease can affect people who are advanced in age or who are younger than the age of 65.\u00a0 When early on-set occurs, the disease is referred to as either younger-onset or early onset Alzheimer\u2019s. \u00a0Forgetfulness due to Alzheimer\u2019s is not a part of the natural aging process.<\/p>\n
Some symptoms and signs of Alzheimer\u2019s are:<\/p>\n
If you are experiencing symptoms or displaying signs of the disease on an ongoing basis, it is recommended that you consult a physician who specializes in treating Alzheimer\u2019s.\u00a0\u00a0 In order to diagnose the disease, the physician may complete a comprehensive medical evaluation which can include cognitive tests, brain imaging, neurological and medical exams.<\/p>\n
Early detection of Alzheimer\u2019s disease can maximize the benefits received from treatment and may help you to maintain your independence longer.\u00a0 Therefore, it is highly advised that you seek the assistance of a specialist immediately.<\/p>\n
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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As you age, you may experience what is jokingly referred to as a \u201csenior moment\u201d when trying to remember why you entered a room or where you left your keys.\u00a0 These moments are fairly common, but how do you know … Continue reading