As your mom ages, you may begin to notice changes in her memory. She might forget where she left her glasses, struggle to recall the name of a neighbor, or repeat herself in conversation. While some memory lapses are a normal part of aging, other changes could signal a deeper issue, like dementia.
At Alpine View Lodge, we understand how concerning these changes can be. The key to understanding whether your mom’s memory loss is simply part of aging or a sign of something more serious lies in recognizing certain patterns. Here are five things to look for that could help you differentiate between normal aging and potential dementia.
- Misplacing Things, but Finding Them Later
Occasional memory slips—like putting the keys in the fridge or forgetting where you placed your purse—happen to everyone. However, if your mom consistently misplaces items and cannot retrace her steps to find them, it could be a cause for concern.
Normal Aging:
- Forgetting where you placed something but being able to recall it later.
Possible Dementia:
- Putting things in unusual places and being unable to find them, or becoming paranoid and thinking things have been stolen.
- Getting Lost in Familiar Places
It’s natural to feel disoriented in an unfamiliar area, but getting lost in familiar places is more alarming. If your mom often forgets where she is—even in places she’s been for years—this may signal a problem.
Normal Aging:
- Losing track of where you are briefly, like forgetting the way to a new place or getting distracted.
Possible Dementia:
- Becoming completely lost in familiar settings, such as her own neighborhood, and not realizing she needs help.
- Forgetting Time, Dates, or Seasons
Everyone forgets the date now and then, but forgetting time and seasons with regularity could indicate more serious cognitive issues. If your mom doesn’t remember appointments, seasons, or even the year, it’s a good idea to get a professional opinion.
Normal Aging:
- Occasionally forgetting what day it is but being able to figure it out quickly.
Possible Dementia:
- Losing track of time or forgetting dates and seasons completely, without realizing it.
- Struggling with Conversations
It’s common to forget a word or pause while trying to recall someone’s name. However, consistent difficulty in finding words, mixing up names, or withdrawing from social situations because of it can be a sign of cognitive decline.
Normal Aging:
- Occasionally pausing during conversations or forgetting a word but recalling it after a moment.
Possible Dementia:
- Repeatedly forgetting words, using the wrong names for people or things, and having trouble following or joining conversations.
- Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks
Forgetting how to cook a favorite recipe or pay bills occasionally is normal. But if your mom is struggling with tasks she once did easily, like managing finances or keeping track of her medications, it could indicate that her cognitive function is changing.
Normal Aging:
- Needing extra time or occasional help with familiar tasks.
Possible Dementia:
- Difficulty completing everyday tasks that were once second nature, like paying bills or managing medication.
What to Do Next?
If you notice these signs becoming more frequent or more severe, it may be time to consult with a doctor. Early intervention can help with diagnosis and treatment, ensuring that your mom gets the right support to maintain her quality of life.
We are here to support families in navigating these changes. If you or your loved one are noticing these symptoms and want guidance on next steps, our compassionate team is ready to help. We offer a range of services, including memory care, to ensure your mom’s well-being and dignity.
Contact Alpine View Lodge today to schedule a tour or get more information on how we can support your family’s needs.