Memory loss and changes in the brain are a regular part of ageing. However, severe memory loss and worsening memory may indicate that an elderly parent has dementia. While the two conditions may seem similar, there are key differences amongst normal age-related memory loss and dementia that caregivers should consider.
Signs of Normal Memory Loss
As we age, many of us experience moments when we forget small details or have difficulty remembering names. Normal age-related memory loss includes:
- Sometimes, you forget where you put your keys, glasses, or other frequently lost items.
- Forgetting names or appointments, but retention them later.
- Needing reminders for things like taking medications or important events.
- Having difficulty learning and remembering new information.
These impairments are usually minor and do not significantly affect daily life. An older person with normal memory loss may be able to compensate by using lists, reminders, or other memory aids. Their thinking, judgment, and conversation skills usually remain sharp.
Causes of Age-Related Memory Loss
Several common factors unrelated to dementia can contribute to memory problems in seniors.
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency can affect cognitive function. Deficiencies of these essential vitamins can be caused by a poor diet or difficulty absorbing nutrients. Blood tests can detect weaknesses, which can be corrected with supplements.
- Medications such as sleeping pills, antihistamines, and anticholinergics also have side effects, such as memory loss. It is essential to discuss all prescription and over-the-counter medications with your doctor to determine if changes can be made to maintain brain health.
- Undiagnosed depression and anxiety often cause concentration problems in older adults. Mental health screening is recommended, as psychotherapy or antidepressants can improve memory and mood.
- Delirium caused by infections, dehydration, or other medical problems can temporarily mimic dementia. Identifying and treating the underlying cause can resolve the confusion and cognitive impairment associated with delirium. Hearing loss and vision or dental problems also affect mental acuity. Properly fitting glasses, dentures, and hearing aids help improve cognitive function. Regular sensory and oral exams help detect problems early.
Evaluating and treating these potential causes of non-dementia can help improve an older person’s memory difficulties.
Warning Signs of Possible Dementia
While some memory loss is expected as we age, more severe or progressive memory loss may indicate a more serious condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Signs that a parent may have dementia include:
- Persistent forgetting of recently learned information or important dates and events.
- They repeatedly ask questions because they do not remember the answers given previously.
- Getting lost in familiar places, such as their neighbourhood.
- Difficulty following the plot of TV shows, books, or conversations.
- Increasing confusion about money matters, such as paying bills and keeping track of balances.
- Personality, mood, or behaviour changes, such as increased excitability, anxiety, or apathy.
- Difficulty completing multi-step tasks, such as preparing food.
- Problems with spatial orientation, judgment, and/or speech.
When to Seek Professional Help
While coping with memory loss in an older parent can be challenging, try not to panic over occasional lapses. Look for patterns of progressive memory loss over weeks and months. Share specific patterns and concerns with your doctor. Recommend a cognitive assessment to screen for possible dementia if memory loss is beyond the normal range of ageing and is affecting quality of life. Early screening provides the best prognosis, when intervention and treatment can make all the difference.
Dementia Assessments
If dementia is suspected, a medical examination can help identify possible treatable causes, such as medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies, or thyroid problems. Your doctor may perform cognitive tests and screen for depression, which can also cause memory problems. They may recommend a more specialised dementia evaluation by a neurologist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist. These in-depth evaluations assess memory, thinking skills, daily functioning, and neurological health to determine if you have some dementia.
Standard tests include CT/PET scans, mental status/memory tests, and physical/neurological examinations. Early assessment is critical because it allows time to plan care while parents can still participate in decision-making.
Coping with Memory Loss in a Parent
Watching a parent struggle with memory loss can be emotionally taxing. As a caregiver, focus on maintaining their dignity and self-esteem. Avoid making harsh comments in front of others. Remind them of important things with tact and patience. Simplify tasks and routines to suit their abilities. Encourage mental, physical, and social activities appropriate to their condition to maintain cognitive health. Adapt the home environment as needed to reduce safety risks. Enlist the help of family members so that caregiving does not fall solely on one person. Participating in a support group can also provide needed resources and comfort.
Making Care Decisions
If a parent gets diagnosed with dementia, caregivers will need to make crucial decisions about current and future care, ideally involving the parent while they can still take part. Topics to discuss may include:
- Financial and legal planning – Review assets, update wills, and grant power of attorney
- Medical care – Discuss treatment options and preferences, palliative care goals
- Daily assistance – Determine the level of help needed with activities like hygiene, meals, and transportation
- Living arrangements – Assess if they can still live independently or may require assisted living
- Behaviour management – Identify strategies to deal with character/behaviour changes
Consulting a geriatric care director or social employee can leader care preparation and accessing support services available.
Supporting a Parent with Dementia
Caring for a parent with dementia grants unique tasks. As cognitive decline progresses, be patient, listen carefully, and offer comforting cues through modest actions. Tailor activities to your child’s abilities and interests. Play music, look at pictures together, or offer other sensory stimulation in later stages. Consult a doctor for medication adjustments and behavioural issues as needed. Don’t underestimate the power of human touch: hugs, holding hands, and gentle massages. Ask for respite care if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Knowing the difference between normal and abnormal memory loss can help caregivers better support older parents experiencing changes. Recognising early warning signs allows for early medical assessment and planning for appropriate care.