As people age, their memory may start to change. Some individuals recognize these changes in themselves before anyone else does; however for others, family and friends are the first to take notice of modifications in behavior or abilities. Memory loss that affects daily life is not a typical component of aging– any individual exhibiting one or more signs from this list should consult with a doctor right away to identify the cause as soon as possible. Early diagnosis provides an opportunity for treatment and planning ahead , so don’t wait!
1. Memory Loss: Have you ever caught yourself forgetting things frequently, repeating your stories more than once, or needing to rely on additional tools like sticky notes and reminders just to remember events? If so, this could be a sign of memory disruption that affects your daily life.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems: Struggling to keep up with your financial obligations as well as the recipes you have known by heart for years?
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure: Have you been experiencing issues while cooking, driving to new destinations, using your cell phone, or even going shopping? If so, then you’re not alone.
4. Confusion with time or place: Attempting to make sense of an upcoming event or forgetting the day it’s happening?
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations: Are you having trouble maintaining your balance, accurately gauging distances, or frequently stumbling and dropping things in the home? If so, these could be signs of an underlying issue.
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing: Are you feeling lost in a conversation or have difficulty coming up with the right word? Does it sound like you’re saying “that thing on your wrist that tells time” when what you really mean is “watch”? If so, then rest assured—you are not alone.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps: Have you ever put your car keys in the washer or dryer, only to realize it later? Or have you looked everywhere for something but can’t find it no matter how hard you try? These occurrences of misplacing items are common and often frustrating.
8. Decreased or poor judgment: Falling prey to a scam, mismanaging finances, becoming lax on personal hygiene and having difficulties caring for pets are all potential pitfalls.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities: Feeling disconnected from your regular spiritual gatherings and favorite sports, not staying informed on current events—these are only a few of the repercussions you may experience when unable to keep up with life as usual.
10. Changes in mood and personality: Experiencing heightened levels of distress in everyday scenarios or being overly apprehensive and distrustful are signs that something is not right.
