We all have moments when our memory fails us, whether we forget the name of a person we just met or the reason why we came into a room. Experiencing memory lapses as we get older is considered to be a regular part of the aging process. However, it can be challenging for many individuals to discern whether the memory loss they are experiencing is considered normal or if it may indicate a more serious problem. After all, forgetting everyday tasks can be a warning sign for illnesses related to our brain like dementia.
Dementia is the term used to explain brain disorders that decline cognitive abilities like memory and thinking to the extent that day-to-day activities become challenging to complete. About sixty to eighty percent of dementia cases have Alzheimer’s, which is the most common type of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, and most people with this disease are sixty-five years or older. Common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include difficulty remembering conversations or events, personality and mood changes, decision-making difficulty, confusion, etc. As this disease progresses, it can lead to even more severe symptoms that can cause individuals to forget how to eat, walk, or even speak.
There is some debate as to what the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is. However, many experts have decided that the build-up of beta-amyloid, which creates plaques in our brains, has a toxic effect that may cause the disease. Additionally, changes in the structure and formation of the tau protein are believed to play a crucial role in causing this disease as well. Researchers have identified risk factors like age, genetic, family history, and sex that may increase the likelihood of getting the disease. Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s disease does not have a cure.
Nonetheless, there are numerous medications and therapies that are used to delay the onset and the severity of the disease. Additionally, eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting a good night’s rest are also ways to decrease one’s risk of Alzheimer’s-Dementia. Losing one’s memory can be a frightening and worrisome experience. If you feel like your memory loss is not healthy, it is best to speak to your physician to find out what may be causing the memory loss. It is better to be proactive when it comes to our health.
References:
Mucke, L. (2009). Alzheimer's disease. Nature, 461 (7266), 895-897.
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, June 26). Alzheimer's disease. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447.