Just a sign of aging—or the first symptoms of cognitive decline?
We've all experienced misplaced keys, a forgotten name, or walking into a room and not remembering why. But how do you know when mild errors in memory signal something longer-lasting? Although it is completely normal for our memories to slip as we age, a consistent pattern of disorientation, confusion, or change in behaviour may signal early cognitive decline and in some instances neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
Knowing the difference between normal aging and early indicators of change is important for positive outcomes in diagnosis and treatment. Cognitive decline does not develop overnight. Most often it is small subtle changes that eventually interfere with daily living in some way.
Warnings signs beyond typical forgetfulness
There are several early patterns of behavior which can signal cognitive decline:
• Frequent memory errors: Forgetting the names of people you know, naming common objects repeatedly asking the same question, relying heavily on memory aids for things you were previously able to do independently.
• Difficulty with familiar tasks: An increasing difficulty following a recipe or managing bills or trying to navigate a familiar route are indicators of potential lost executive function.
• Language and communication difficulties: Difficulty finding the right word, inability to follow conversations, or difficulty naming everyday objects may be early indicators of dementia-related change
• Unusual judgments or decisions: Financial decisions that seem uncharacteristic, lack of attention to personal grooming, or lack of awareness or assessment of safety could develop slowly.
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• Changes in mood or personality. The person may be anxious, irritable, depressed, or isolate from social engagement, possibly demonstrating that they are internally struggling offsetting cognitive functioning.
• Challenges with planning or problem-solving: Finding it challenging to follow through on multi-step processes or changes in routine could be early indicators of diminished cognitive flexibility.
What's not normal vs. What is normal?
It is important to create a distinction of what is normal and what is not. Periodic forgetfulness, most especially when under stress or fatigue, is typical. But if there are underlying patterns that interrupt work, relationships, independence - then this may be an indicator that there may be something further, serious going on.
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is often the transition between expected age-related changes and more serious, identifiable decline.
While not everyone diagnosed with MCI will develop into dementia, recognition in this stage allows for tracking, planning lifestyle changes, and sometimes implementing therapeutic strategies if appropriate.
Why early detection is important
Observing early indicators of cognitive decline is vital. With more than 6 million people diagnosed with dementia, - even though we still do not have cures for all dementias, like Alzheimer's disease for instance - an early diagnosis will assist in identifying changes that slow the decline, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.
It will also provide family and/or recipients time to consider options and their future, explore resources, and seek what seems right for them.
Certain drug trials are going on with potential benefits to alter the pathophysiology and slow down neurodegeneration or progression of dementia.
In addition, some underlying causes of cognitive impairment—like vitamin deficiency, thyroid disease, or medication can be reversed if caught early.
Proactive brain health
Brain health isn't all about memory; it's about having the ability to think, reason, and live independently. Exercise regularly, eat nutritious food with more intake of food containing omega fatty acid like fish and fish oils,green vegetables,nuts and various seeds and turmeric.
Also challenge your brain, play games boosting memory and some creative work, learn new art or music or any science, stay social, and sleep well as these all contribute to maintaining brain function.
If you or someone you love experiences ongoing changes in thinking or memory, don't brush it off. An early consultation with a health professional can distinguish between usual aging and early cognitive impairment and even alter the course of brain health for decades to come.
Dr. Tushar Raut, Consultant, Neurology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
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