Learn what abnormal aging may look like.
| Health tips: What’s typical aging and what’s not | | | Dear Reader,
When it comes to cognitive functions — thought, perception, memory, problem-solving, decision-making — what age-related changes are typical and what may be cause for concern? You may be surprised to learn that research into the answer to this question is lacking. In part, this is because the answer isn’t as straightforward as you may think.
For example, take a woman in her early 90s whose mind is as sharp as a tack. She still lives at home, takes few medications, walks her dog every day and meets regularly with friends. People like this exist. Does “typical” apply to this woman? In terms of the actual number of people who age this way, this may not be typical. Instead, experts refer to this as successful aging or optimal aging — the kind that most people would want to experience.
Typical aging can have many variations. More often than not, aging includes illnesses and conditions like heart disease, decreased bone density, and hearing or vision loss. Many people also think of slight forgetfulness as a common part of aging. | The changes that come with aging may be inconvenient and frustrating, but they don’t stop you from living an active, independent life. The challenge in defining what’s “typical” lies in telling the difference between elements of typical aging from abnormal changes that may signal dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By being able to spot a disorder in its earliest stages, scientists hope to capture Alzheimer’s when it may be most treatable. At the same time, researchers are looking into the concept of optimal aging and what can be done to promote lifelong health. Both tracks of research may provide valuable insight into how to prevent cognitive decline and treat dementia.
The most important point to remember is that dementia is not part of typical aging. What abnormal aging looks like Some people, particularly after age 65, experience a sustained decline in many parts of cognition. They start having trouble processing information, especially when it’s new. Memory problems and periods of confusion are frequent. They struggle to think abstractly, concentrate, express ideas clearly and work with numbers. Some may undergo personality changes, have trouble controlling emotions, and become paranoid or withdrawn.
Although these signs and symptoms are often associated with getting older, they aren’t part of typical aging. They’re signs and symptoms of abnormal aging.
Sometimes, when older adults feel lonely, worried or bored, they show signs and symptoms associated with dementia. For example, coping with emotional trauma or the death of a spouse can cause extreme changes in personality and behavior. Only an experienced doctor who can carefully interpret someone’s signs and symptoms and family history can say whether or not they’re being caused by dementia. |
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| Advice for living well with dementia | | An invaluable reference guide on dementia, helping bring peace of mind to those affected by the disease and their caretakers. | | Get this resource |
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