Becoming mildly forgetful as an older adult is often a normal part of aging, but sometimes people experience a more serious condition called dementia.
Dementia is a general term for declining cognitive ability, such as the loss of memory, language, problem solving skills and decision-making skills.
Most cases of dementia are caused by Alzheimer’s disease, a disorder that damages neurons and brain cells. Early signs of Alzheimer’s disease include:
• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Taking longer to complete normal daily tasks
• Repeating questions or forgetting recently learned information
• Challenges in planning or solving problems
• Wandering and getting lost
• Losing things or misplacing them in odd places
• Difficulty completing tasks such as bathing
• Mood and personality changes
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, talk to your primary care provider about your concerns. Early detection can help you to prepare for the future and access treatments that may help with symptoms.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, but you can reduce your risk by making healthy lifestyle choices starting now. Here are the top seven steps you can take to prevent dementia:
1. Prevent and manage high blood pressure and blood sugar.
2. Maintain a healthy weight.
3. Be physically active.
4. Quit smoking.
5. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
6. Prevent and correct hearing loss.
7. Get enough sleep.
For more information, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
