Age-related memory loss or dementia?
If you have an older partner, relative, or friend, there may be times when you wonder about their memory. It could be that they seem to be more forgetful than they used to. But how do you know if it’s age-related memory loss or something more serious like dementia? Let’s explore this further.
What is normal age-related memory loss?
As we get older, our memory can change or feel a little worse. It may take us longer to learn and recall information. This age-related memory loss is normal and doesn’t usually cause too much trouble if we’re given enough time to learn and remember things. These small changes don’t usually interfere significantly with our ability to do normal, everyday tasks.
Sometimes, this age-related memory loss and minor forgetfulness can be confused with dementia. Dementia, however, is something quite different.
What is dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for numerous symptoms of different conditions. These symptoms can affect memory, thinking, reasoning, learning, language, and daily tasks.
The most common condition that causes dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. But you might also have heard about vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies (or Lewy body dementia), or frontotemporal dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease causes between half and three-quarters of all cases of dementia. Memory loss is usually the main symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s often the first symptom and usually affects short-term or recent memory in the early stages. For example, someone might forget recent conversations or what they ate for lunch, but remember something about their life or significant events from years ago.
Vascular dementia causes around one in five cases of dementia. With this type of dementia, memory loss is also typical in the earlier stages.
Dementia is progressive, meaning the symptoms get worse over time. Memory loss will become more noticeable. It will also start to affect longer-term memories as the condition progresses.
Why is age-related memory loss mistaken for dementia?
It may be hard to tell age-related memory loss from dementia, and vice versa, for many reasons. Remember, however, that dementia gets worse with time.
The chances of getting dementia increase the older we get. It can affect younger people, but most people with dementia are 65 or older.
Dementia-related memory loss is often mild at first. This makes it easier to dismiss. Some may deny it and prefer to blame memory problems on old age.
Can you have memory loss but not dementia?
Memory loss may be a sign of other conditions, such as mild cognitive impairment, depression, or delirium.
If you’re worried about a loved one’s memory, there are some things to look out for that might help you decide what to do next.
Being a little slower - for example, taking longer to remember things but getting there in the end is usually not an issue. But if it’s happening much more frequently or you notice the following:
- not recalling things that happened recently
- forgetting conversations or repeating questions
- losing or misplacing belongings
- struggling to name things or people
This would be a reason to seek an assessment with a GP.
Other signs that might indicate dementia or brain changes include:
- changes in behaviour or personality
- difficulty speaking and understanding
- becoming easily confused
- struggling with daily tasks like driving, cooking, or housework
It could also be a concern if your loved one isn’t as worried about their memory problems as you are. This is fairly common with dementia. Someone experiencing natural age-related memory loss is more likely to be aware of it and be frustrated by it.
What should I do if I think someone with memory problems has dementia?
If you think a loved one’s memory problems could be the early signs of dementia, encourage them to visit their GP. They’ll be able to find out a little more, and can refer them to a specialist for assessment if necessary.
This may not be an easy conversation to have. It may be difficult if your loved one does not recognise their memory difficulties or see them as a big problem. The charity Alzheimer’s Society has some helpful advice about how to approach this discussion.
What can I do to improve my memory?
Dementia is a progressive condition, so memory loss will worsen over time. But memory changes occur with many treatable conditions that are not dementia. For example, depression, menopause, and sleep issues can cause memory changes. Getting treatment for these conditions should see your memory improve.
However, we should all invest in looking after our memory long before we notice age-related changes. Just like looking after our physical health, ways we can prevent memory decline are:
- having a healthy balanced diet
- regular exercise
- getting enough sleep – and thinking about sleep hygiene
Activities you can try to help your memory include:
- learning a new skill
- mental exercises, such as crosswords or games like chess
- crafts
- reading
You might find that memory tools, like calendars and notes, help with forgetfulness.
What can I do to prevent dementia?
If you’re worried about developing dementia, there are steps you can take to stay healthy. You can also reduce some risk factors that contribute to dementia. These include eating a healthy diet, stopping smoking, and cutting down on alcohol.
Are you aged over 65 and wondering about your health and wellbeing? Bupa's Mature Health assessment gives an insight into your current health, as well future health risks for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. We also offer a year of ongoing support, with nurses on hand all day every day with our Anytime HealthLine to help you meet your health goals.
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Sources Sources
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- Psychiatry. Oxford Handbook of Geriatric Medicine (online, 3rd ed). Oxford Academic. academic.oup.com, published February 2018. doi.org/10.1093/med/9780198738381.003.0009
- Dementia. NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries. cks.nice.org.uk, last revised April 2024
- What is dementia? Dementia UK. dementiauk.org, published March 2023
- What is dementia? Alzheimer’s Research UK. alzheimersresearchuk.org, last updated November 2022
- Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Research UK. alzheimersresearchuk.org, last updated May 2024
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- Vascular dementia. Alzheimer’s Research UK. alzheimersresearchuk.org, last updated December 2023
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