Memory Loss: What's Normal, What's Not

Dear Savvy Senior

I am 58 years old and have noticed that I've become more forgetful lately and it troubles me. My mother died with Alzheimer's disease about 15 years ago and I am afraid I might be next. Is my forgetfulness something I should worry about?

Forgetful Frank

Dear Frank:

Forgetfulness is something everyone experiences from time to time, but at what point does it indicate the beginning of a more serious problem? Here's what you should know.

Memory Loss

Yes, it is true that forgetfulness and memory loss can be symptoms of more serious problems, but it doesn't necessarily mean you have Alzheimer's disease. While some memory changes are normal as we age, memory loss can also be brought on by a variety of factors like stress, lack of sleep, side effects of medications, depression, vitamin deficiencies, a head injury, thyroid disease, alcohol, a small stroke, Alzheimer's disease and more. If your forgetfulness or memory loss is starting to affect your daily life, you need to see your doctor. Here are some potential warning signs that may indicate a more serious problem:

• Forgetting or misplacing things much more often than you used to.

• Forgetting how to do things you've done many times before.

• Trouble learning new things.

• Repeating phrases or stories in the same conversation.

• Trouble recalling simple words or names in conversation or using inappropriate words.

• Trouble making choices or handling money.

• Becoming lost while driving.

• Not being able to keep track of what happens each day.

• Rapid mood changes for no apparent reason.

Memory Screening

A memory screening is a good first step towards early detection of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, or other types of conditions that can cause memory loss. Memory screenings that turn out normal can also let you know that you're OK, which can ease your fears and provide some peace of mind. If you have some concerns about your memory loss or have a family history of Alzheimer's disease, National Memory Screening Day on November 13 is a great opportunity to get tested. Initiated by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, this is a free service that provides a confidential, face-toface memory screening that takes about 10 minutes to complete and consists of questions and/or tasks to assess your memory, language skills, thinking ability and other intellectual functions. The screening is given by doctors, social workers or other healthcare professionals in hundreds of convenient locations in communities across the country. It's important to know that this memory screening does not diagnose an illness, but can flag a potential problem. Those who have a memory screening test that raises concerns will be encouraged to see a doctor or other healthcare professional as soon as possible. To find a screening site in your area visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org or call 866-232-8484.

Early Detection

Early diagnosis is very important because many of the conditions that cause memory loss are treatable and may be reversible. And although Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible illness that can't be stopped, early detection is significant because there are several medications that, if taken early, can help delay its devastating effects. Early detection can also help families prepare themselves for the caregiving and supportive needs that lie ahead.

Savvy Tip: The Alzheimer's Association offers a list of common symptoms to help to recognize the difference between normal age-related memory changes and possible warning signs of Alzheimer's disease. They can also put you in touch with your local chapter that can help you locate a medical professional who specializes in evaluating and treating dementia and memory loss. Visit www.alz.org or call 800-272-3900.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to "The NBC Today Show" and author of The Savvy Senior books.

The Gazette does not endorse the contents of The Savvy Senior. Check with professionals about the contents of this column.