As we age, forgetfulness becomes a common experience. We may struggle to recall certain details or information, but it is important to understand the difference between normal age-related forgetfulness and forgetfulness that could be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. This article aims to explore the distinctions between these two types of forgetfulness and how they can be identified.
Retrieval of Memories
In normal age-related forgetfulness, retrieving long-term stored memories can be a challenge. This can manifest as difficulties accessing specific information, such as forgetting names. However, these issues can often be mitigated with the use of cues or context.
On the other hand, Alzheimer's disease presents an early and profound problem with recent memory. Even with cues and context, individuals with Alzheimer's may struggle to remember certain information. For example, if asked to recall three words, one of which is “apple,” and then asked three minutes later what the three words were, someone with Alzheimer's may not remember “apple,” even if provided the clue that “One of them was a fruit.” In normal aging, it is likely that the word would be remembered once a cue is provided.
Attention and Concentration
While normal age-related forgetfulness may involve a decline in attention and concentration, vocabulary and understanding of relationships between things generally remain intact.
In contrast, Alzheimer's disease may be accompanied by a deterioration in attention and concentration as well as changes in vocabulary and understanding of relationships between things.
Recent Memory
As mentioned earlier, Alzheimer's disease presents an early and profound problem with recent memory. Even with cues and context, individuals with Alzheimer's may struggle to remember recent information. In normal aging, it is likely that the word would be remembered once a cue is provided.
Chronological Memory and Source Memory
Individuals with Alzheimer's disease may struggle to remember the order of things (chronological memory) or who said what (source memory). They may also have difficulty finding common words, such as “watch” or “pen,” and they might even fail to remember that conversations or events took place.
Repetitiveness and Intrusions
Other concerning signs include repetitiveness (not just insistence) and a lack of awareness of having a memory problem (lack of insight). Intrusions into memory can occur in Alzheimer's disease. For example, if someone is asked to draw a cube, a few minutes later, they may mistakenly think they were asked to remember the word “cube.”
Summary of Differences Between Normal Forgetfulness and Alzheimer’s Disease
Normal Forgetfulness:
- Memory improves with cues and context
- Vocabulary and understanding of relationships remain intact
- Able to remember the order of things and who said what
- Awareness of the existence of a memory problem (subjective cognitive impairment)
- Functioning remains good despite forgetfulness
- Occasional lapses in decision-making
- Forgetting to make a monthly payment
- Being uncertain of the day but being able to recall it later
- Difficulty with recent or unfamiliar tasks, such as adjusting to a new device
- Difficulty finding a new location while driving
Alzheimer's Disease:
- Poor recent memory, and cues and context do not help
- Cannot remember the order of things and who said what
- Repetitiveness becomes evident; intrusions into memory occur
- Lack of awareness of a memory problem
- Daily functioning declines with memory
- Frequent demonstration of poor judgment and decision-making
- Inability to regularly pay bills
- Often disoriented in time and space
- Difficulty with familiar tasks, such as making coffee every day
- Getting lost on the way home after daily work
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If memory problems resemble those listed above for Alzheimer's disease, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. Furthermore, if memory problems involve dangerous behaviors (such as wandering outside or leaving the stove on), significant mood changes, or losses of abilities such as dressing and personal hygiene, seeking professional help is crucial. Even if memory problems are minor, addressing them early is important to ensure proper evaluation and management.
Remember, understanding the distinctions between normal age-related forgetfulness and forgetfulness associated with Alzheimer's disease is crucial for identifying potential early warning signs. Don't hesitate to seek professional assistance whenever necessary.
