Normal older adult forgetfulness versus dementia
‘Normal’ older adult forgetfulness
‘Sometimes I walk into the kitchen and can't remember what I came in there for. So, I go out of the room and later on I remember what I needed in the kitchen.’
A person with dementia
Loses car keys and then happens to find them but doesn't remember what they are for.
Here is a table showing the difference between dementia and normal forgetfulness.
| The difference between normal forgetfulness and dementia | ||
|---|---|---|
| Description | Person with dementia | ‘Normal’ older adult |
| Forgets | whole experience | parts of an experience |
| Forgets words or names for things or objects | progressive | occasional (tip-of-the-tongue) |
| Delayed recall of names | often | rarely |
| Follows written or verbal directions | gradually unable | usually able |
| Ability to use notes, reminders, cues from environment | gradually unable | usually able |
| Follow a story on TV, in a movie or in a book | gradually loses ability | usually able |
| Calculations | gradually loses ability | may be slower than before |
| Self-care capacity (dressing, bathing, cooking etc.) | gradually unable | usually able |
Tips for keeping your brain fit and memory sharp
As yet there is no prevention or cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of forgetfulness. The following are a few tips for keeping your brain more ‘fit’ and memory sharp.
- Avoid harmful substances. Excessive drinking and drug abuse damage brain cells.
- Challenge yourself. Read widely. Keeping mentally active and learning new skills strengthens brain connections and promotes new ones.
- Trust yourself more. If people feel they have control over their lives, their brain chemistry actually improves.
- Relax. Tension may prolong a memory lapse.
- Pay attention. Concentrate on what you want to remember.
- Minimise and restrict distractions.
- Take your time.
- Organise belongings.
Designate a place for ‘unforgettables’. - Repeat names of new acquaintances in conversation
- Use a notepad and carry a calendar.
This may not keep your memory sharp, but will compensate for memory problems.
Last Reviewed: 30 April 2001
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