Memory lapses are a common experience in our busy lives. Forgetting where you put your keys or why you walked into a room is often dismissed as stress or fatigue. However, when does forgetfulness become a cause for concern? Distinguishing between typical forgetfulness and signs of cognitive decline can be crucial.
According to Dr Henk Swanepoel, lead neuropsychologist at Cygnet Health Care, the key difference lies in the impact on daily life. While occasional slips are normal, memory problems that interfere with daily routines warrant further investigation. If someone starts missing appointments regularly, forgets conversations as a whole, or struggles to manage tasks, it may signal a more serious issue requiring professional attention.
Friends and family often notice subtle changes before the affected person does themselves. As Victoria Lyons, dementia specialist and admiral nurse at Dementia UK, notes, “If your dad, who cycled every day, got lost on his bike ride, that was a trigger to think something’s going on.” Tracking notable changes or patterns of memory loss is essential, as it helps healthcare professionals understand the situation better.
It’s crucial not to downplay memory symptoms, as they could be treatable. Ms Lyons emphasizes the importance of viewing our brains as an integral part of our bodies and taking steps to protect them. Cognitive changes can also be caused by treatable conditions like B12 deficiency, depression, thyroid function issues, or menopause.
If you’re worried about memory problems, speaking with a GP is essential. They will take your history, listen to your symptoms, and perform blood tests, ECGs, and sometimes brain scans to rule out other conditions. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in managing cognitive decline.
For advice or support on living with dementia, contact Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline at 0800 888 6678 or email [email protected].
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/memory-loss-dementia-alzheimers-symptoms-b2742636.html