Written by: Vanessa Jerusalimiec (*Amsive Digital) | Reviewed by: Shelley Wyant | *MHP partners with Amsive Digital on news content
Forgetfulness As We Age: Is Memory Loss Normal?
Aging can lead to changes in memory. You may forget where you left your keys, or what time you’re meeting friends for dinner. While forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, it can also be a sign of something more. Let’s take a look at normal aging vs dementia, and how you can prevent and manage age-related changes in memory.
Understanding Age-Related Memory Loss
Age-related memory loss can be a natural part of the aging process. Older adults often experience mild forgetfulness. But more significant memory loss could be a sign of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
What Causes Memory Loss as We Age?
It’s normal for our cognitive abilities to change as we age, and the brain experiences normal aging over time. These changes may lead us to forget where we put something or take an extra second to process information. These signs of mild forgetfulness are not a cause for concern.
Serious memory problems may be a sign of dementia. Signs to watch for include forgetting recent events, difficulty following conversations, or even getting lost in familiar places.
Types of Memory: What Is Affected?
Two main types of memory can be impacted by normal aging and dementia. Short-term memory is the first to be impacted by aging and dementia. You may also see changes in long-term memory as dementia impacts the brain.
Short-Term Memory: Short-term memory is the memory we use to remember small amounts of information for a short amount of time. For example, you may hear a phone number, then remember it for a few seconds while you find a piece of paper and write it down. Short-term memory helps us hold onto information temporarily, usually for just a few seconds to a few minutes.
Long-Term Memory: Long-term memory stores memories for a longer period. Once information moves from short-term memory to long-term memory, these memories can stay for months, years, or a lifetime. Long-term memory is responsible for retaining important facts, experiences, and skills. Your long-term memory is what allows you to remember your favorite childhood vacation, how to ride a bike, and the lyrics to your favorite song.
Levels of Memory Loss
There are several levels of memory loss, ranging from normal age-associated changes to more serious cognitive impairment and dementia:
- Age-Associated Memory Loss: Occasional forgetfulness and mild memory lapses are considered a normal part of aging. It's common for older adults to experience moments of forgetfulness, such as misplacing keys or forgetting a word. Age-associated memory changes typically do not have an impact on daily functioning and can be managed with lifestyle modifications and memory strategies.
- Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Mild cognitive impairment is characterized by noticeable memory and cognitive decline beyond what is expected for age but not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily life. Individuals with MCI may experience challenges with memory, language, attention, or problem-solving.
- Dementia: Dementia is characterized by significant cognitive decline that interferes with daily functioning. It includes Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, among others. Symptoms of dementia may include memory loss, difficulty with language and communication, impaired judgment, and changes in mood or behavior. Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms typically worsen over time.
Normal Signs of Aging vs. Serious Warning Signs
Normal Forgetfulness in Seniors
Occasional memory lapses are common in older adults. This can include:
- Forgetting Names: Occasionally forgetting the names of acquaintances.
- Misplacing Items: Losing items such as keys, glasses, or wallets.
- Tip-of-the-Tongue Moments: Desired information feels just out of reach.
- Difficulty Remembering Details: Challenges recalling specific details of past events.
- Decreased Multitasking Ability: Difficulty juggling multiple tasks.
Warning Signs of Serious Memory Issues
Persistent memory problems that disrupt daily life can be a sign of cognitive decline or dementia. Recognizing the symptoms is important for early detection and intervention. Symptoms can include:
- Persistent Memory Loss: Difficulty remembering recent events or important dates.
- Confusion and Disorientation: Feeling confused or having trouble recognizing familiar faces or surroundings.
- Difficulty with Problem-Solving: Challenges with tasks that require problem-solving, and decision-making, such as finances.
- Language and Communication Problems: Difficulty finding the right words, forming sentences, or following conversations.
- Changes in Mood or Behavior: Changes in mood, such as increased agitation, anxiety, depression, or irritability.
Early detection and consultation with healthcare providers can help identify the underlying cause of cognitive symptoms. This will allow you to access the right treatment and support, and plan for the future.
Preventing and Managing Age-Related Memory Loss
Lifestyle Changes for a Healthier Brain
Adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle can help mitigate age-related memory loss.
- Physical exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or stretching, can promote cardiovascular health and increase blood flow to the brain. This enhances mood and supports cognitive function.
- Diet: The foods you eat impact your physical and mental health. A balanced and nutritious diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides essential nutrients for brain function.
- Mental exercise: Mental stimulation is essential for keeping the brain sharp. Activities like reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills or languages, and engaging in social interactions help stimulate neural connections. Brain exercises can strengthen and protect your memory.
Medical and Professional Support
Regular medical check-ups are an important part of monitoring cognitive health. Healthcare providers can assess memory concerns, offer guidance on managing risk factors, and recommend interventions to support brain health.
McLaren Health Plan's Role in Supporting Seniors
Health Care Benefits for Michigan's Seniors
McLaren Health Plan provides comprehensive health care benefits tailored to the needs of Michigan residents. Our Medicare Advantage plan coverage includes preventive services, specialized care for chronic conditions, and access to a large network of health care providers. You’ll benefit from services such as vision, dental, and hearing coverage, along with prescription drug coverage and even a fitness benefit.
Accessing Resources and Support Through MHP
Members can access a range of resources for cognitive health and overall wellness. Start by visiting our website or contacting Member Services for information on available programs and services.
For more resources on cognitive health and memory care, you can visit:
Key Points
While some degree of memory loss is normal with age, major changes in memory that impact daily functioning can be a sign of cognitive impairment or dementia. With the right health care plan and lifestyle changes, you can manage or prevent memory loss.
If you're a Michigan resident looking for resources on age-related memory loss, contact us to learn more about McLaren Medicare. Our team is here to help you learn more about our Medicare Advantage plans.
McLaren Health Plan provides quality health insurance solutions for every stage of life, specifically tailored for Michigan residents. From individual coverage to family plans and Medicare, find out which plan is right for you.
View Our Michigan Plan Options