Problem-Solving Abilities
Normal aging: Occasionally forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later. You might walk into a room and forget why you entered, but remember shortly after.
Dementia signs: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events. Asking for the same information repeatedly without recognizing it's been discussed before. Memory lapses that disrupt daily life.
Memory Changes
Normal aging: Making occasional errors when managing finances or following a recipe.
Dementia signs: Increasing difficulty following plans, working with numbers, or completing familiar tasks like navigating to a well-known location or managing a household budget.
Language and Communication
Normal aging: Sometimes having trouble finding the right word in conversation.
Dementia signs: Struggling to join or follow conversations, repeating questions or statements, stopping mid-sentence without the ability to continue, or using unusual word substitutions.
Time and Place Orientation
Normal aging: Momentarily forgetting what day it is but figuring it out later.
Dementia signs: Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time. Becoming confused about where they are or how they got there.
Decision-Making and Judgment
Normal aging: Making an occasional poor decision.
Dementia signs: Showing significantly impaired judgment, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers, neglecting personal hygiene, or dressing inappropriately or unsafely for the weather.
Social Withdrawal
Normal aging: Sometimes feeling fatigued by social obligations or work demands.
Dementia signs: Withdrawing from hobbies, social activities, or work projects. Having trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a familiar hobby.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider consulting a healthcare provider if you notice:
- Memory problems that interfere with daily activities
- Difficulty performing familiar tasks
- Confusion about time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
- New problems with speaking or writing
- Misplacing items and inability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of dementia can:
- Provide access to treatments that may improve symptoms and maintain independence longer
- Allow time to plan for the future and make important legal and financial decisions
- Give individuals the opportunity to participate in research or other clinical trials
- Help families access support services and education
The Diagnostic Process
If concerns arise, a comprehensive evaluation typically includes:
- Medical history review
- Physical examination
- Neurological testing
- Cognitive assessments
- Brain imaging
- Laboratory tests to rule out other conditions
Remember that many conditions can cause dementia-like symptoms, including medication side effects, depression, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, and alcohol use. Some of these conditions are reversible with proper treatment.
Supporting a Loved One Through the Process
If you're concerned about someone's cognitive changes:
- Choose a quiet, comfortable moment to express concerns
- Focus on specific observations rather than making judgments
- Offer to accompany them to medical appointments
- Approach the situation with empathy and patience
- Remember that denial or resistance may be part of their response
Understanding the difference between normal aging and dementia can help families recognize when to seek professional guidance. While aging naturally brings some cognitive changes, significant disruption to daily life warrants medical attention. With proper diagnosis and support, individuals experiencing cognitive decline can maintain quality of life and dignity throughout their journey.
Concerned It Might Be More Than Just Aging?
you're unsure whether the changes you're noticing are part of normal aging or something more serious, you're not alone. Alzheimer Calgary is here to help.
🔍 Get expert guidance, resources, and support for navigating memory and cognitive concerns → https://www.alzheimercalgary.ca/find-support/get-help
Whether you're seeking a diagnosis, looking for next steps, or need someone to talk to, our team is here to support you and your family—every step of the way.