Dementia versus “Normal” Memory Loss

As we grow older we all, quite normally, experience some memory loss (many people call such lapses “senior moments”). The loss seems to be most pronounced for recent memory functions and does not interfere with daily activities, although it can be annoying. As a consequence, tests of memory function are adjusted for age: older individuals need not score as well as younger ones to be assessed as normal. Other cognitive functions seem to be largely preserved in normal aging: cognitive skills such as judgement abstract thinking, problem solving, and language are typically unimpaired.

Dementia, however, impacts memory in a more severe fashion than in normal aging. It also affects other spheres of cognitive functioning such as language, abstract thinking, and problem solving skills. Dementia may be defined as a significant, progressive, global decrease in cognitive function. Global means more areas than just memory is involved and significant means that the impairment causes substantial amounts of difficulty and disability with functioning.

One other feature of Dementia that is quite characteristic is that patients with Dementia usually are not aware of the degree of the impairment. Patients with “normal” memory loss are always aware when they forget things.

The following list highlights the differences between normal aging and Dementia:

Normal Forgetfulness

• Forgets details not events
• Will remember later
• Can use notes/cues
• Can recognize people/places
• Can follow directions
• Knows day and time

Dementia

10 Warning Signs of Dementia

• Forgets recent events
• Does not remember he has forgotten
• Cannot when the disease has advanced
• Gradually there is no recognition
• Eventually cannot follow directions
• Gradually becomes unaware of day or time