Understanding Age related Memory Loss

What is memory loss?

It has been estimated that globally there are over 20 million persons living with irreversible memory loss. This is not at all surprising as persons are living longer and so more age related diseases will be prevalent. This figure is expected to triple by 2040.
Memory loss ranges from the occasional memory lapses (we all have from time to time) to irreversible dementia which affects an individual’s ability to do daily functions due to a change in the brain function. Alzheimer’s disease is a common form of dementia. The other common type is vascular dementia (Caused by multiple minor strokes which are often not even noticed).

There has been so much publicity around Alzheimer’s disease due largely to well-known personalities being affected by the disease. On the other hand this awareness has created a fear in the older population and their care-givers as they are constantly questioning whether Alzheimer is the cause of the change in behavior and habits.

Some forms of dementia can be reversed as in the case of very high fever, poor nutrition, dehydration, head injury, thyroid illness or brain tumor. Others go on to become chronic mental illness as in the case of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Ultimately there is death of brain cells due to decreased blood supply, auto immune attack on brain or poisoning caused by the deposits of heavy metals.

Not to be confused with dementia are common emotional problem in the elderly population which can be easily explained and resolved. Loss of a spouse, going into retirement, relocating to live with family, adapting to a home for the elderly or nursing home can result in challenges to adapt. This is recognized by the display of sadness, loneliness, worry, boredom, confusion and forgetfulness.

Recognizing Age-related Memory Loss

As we age there is some degree of memory loss, forgetfulness and erosion of cognitive (thinking) skills. We tend to refer to these moments as “having a senior moment”.

Typically over the age of fifty (50) years, there are behaviors that alert to age-related memory loss includes the following:

• Getting loss in a once familiar location
• Being disoriented in time , person and place
• Inability to follow instructions
• Asking one question over and over
• Neglecting hygiene
• Poor eating habits
• No concern for personal safety

Some Health and Lifestyle factors linked to memory problems

Insufficient brain stimulation, physical exercise and social interactions can increase the risk of age related memory loss.

Lifestyle Tips to Promote Memory and Cognitive (Thinking skills) Health

Exercise: will boost the blood flow to the brain to boost the growth of brain cells. Exercise releases the “happy hormones” such as endorphins which will keep depression at bay. Stretching, gentle aerobic and strength building exercises are recommended.

Healthy eating: a balanced diet essential for overall good health. Fatty fish, flax seed and nuts are recommended as they have omega fatty acids. Reduce salt intake and increase portions of fruits and vegetables.

Supplements:

• ° Vitamins including B vitamins, C & E vitamins and folate
• ° Acetyl-L-carnitine
• ° Omega Fatty Acids
• ° Licorice root

Memory aids and exercise:

• Aim at learning something new every day.
• Use post-it and calendars to aid memory with important appointments and dates.
• Develop interests or hobbies and stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body. Several studies have associated exercise (such as walking) with better brain function, although more research is needed to say for sure whether exercise can help to maintain brain function or prevent or delay symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
• Limit alcohol use. Although some studies suggest that moderate alcohol use has health benefits, heavy or binge drinking over time can cause memory loss and permanent brain damage.
• Maintaining social contact, daily routine/physical activities

What can Therapy offer for Age-related memory loss?

There are drugs that have been giving hope to patients, the families and their care-givers. These drugs have been shown to slow down the progression of dementia in the early phase. The drug Aricept has been approved by the FDA.

One on one therapy and group therapy using an occupational or similar mental health expert is very helpful for the patient and the care-giver.

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