Seniors and Memory Loss

Should you be concerned if you forget where you put your car keys or what day you have an appointment with your doctor? Not necessarily. Contrary to popular belief, memory loss isn't an inevitable part of aging. Experts say most of us remain alert as we get older, though it may take a little longer to remember things.

Some memory lapses may be caused by treatable conditions, including dehydration, vitamin deficiency, high fever, poor nutrition, thyroid problems, emotional problems, head injury or medication interactions. People who have serious memory, personality and behavioral changes, however, may suffer from a brain disorder called dementia. Dementia actually refers to a group of symptoms caused by changes in how the brain works. These symptoms may include asking a question over and over; getting lost in a familiar place; becoming confused about time or people and places; and neglecting personal hygiene. These symptoms can develop quickly or over time.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and multi-infarct dementia are the most common forms of dementia. AD occurs when certain changes in the brain cause brain tissue to die. Symptoms typically come on gradually and become progressively worse. Multi-infarct dementia occurs when small strokes or changes in the blood supply to the brain destroy brain tissue. Symptoms often come on suddenly. Patients may improve or remain stable for a period of time then develop new symptoms when additional strokes occur.

Dementia cannot be cured, but medications and behavior-management techniques may help reduce symptoms and make patients more comfortable. Treating high blood pressure is especially important for people with multi-infarct dementia. Other medications may help slow the progress of AD.

What to Do

You can help avoid memory loss, especially forgetfulness caused by treatable conditions, by keeping your mind and body strong. Here are some suggestions:

• Eat healthy foods, including lots of fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants.

• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

• Limit your consumption of alcohol.

• Get adequate sleep.

• Keep your body active by exercising regularly. If you aren't active now, talk with your doctor about what types of exercise are right for you and how often you should exercise.

• Challenge your mind with new interests or hobbies.

• See your doctor regularly.

• Follow your doctor's advice on treating high blood pressure.

Talk with your doctor if you're concerned about your memory. Your provider can evaluate your health and may be able to treat conditions that cause or contribute to your forgetfulness. Experts say forgetfulness is a problem when it affects your daily living.

Self-care Steps for Memory Loss

If you forget things more often than you'd like, try these memory-boosting techniques:

• Establish a routine.

• Keep a daily calendar of activities you want to accomplish.

• Use post it notes as reminders.

• Concentrate and limit distractions when you're trying to remember something.

• Use medication dispensers that contain the medications you need for a day or week.

• Keep items in the same place all the time, i.e., install a key hook for your keys.