When older adults notice that their memory isn't as sharp as before, they may fear dementia. It is particularly true for those with a history of dementia, who might think, "Grandma also had it." I wonder if it's happening to me too.

It's good to know that memory changes aren't always signs of dementia. Before diagnosing dementia, it is essential to consider other possible causes.

Normal Aging

Normal aging is one possibility for memory loss. I've observed that older adults who value their intelligence are very aware of subtle changes to their cognitive abilities. They notice such changes as:

• They can't remember as much about recent conversations.

• They need help to follow complex plots in books or movies.

• It's harder to remember the names of familiar faces.

While these changes are frustrating, they do not indicate that dementia is developing.

Specific cognitive abilities can last well into old age. These skills, such as vocabulary and general information, remain the same with age. These skills are often referred to as "crystallized." They are established and less vulnerable to aging.

Naturally, some skills decline as we age (such as short-term memory, speed of processing, or thinking on the spot). We tend to consider these skills as "fluid." It can be helpful to keep this distinction in your mind.

Mild Cognitive Impairment

This condition is also known as a "mild cognitive disorder." It involves a mild decline in remembering new information or another skill. However, it only interferes significantly with daily functioning. Sometimes, a benign neurocognitive condition can progress into a more severe neurocognitive condition (e.g., Not always.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep is essential for memory, energy, and mood. If you need more sleep, you may experience issues in any of these areas.

Sleep apnea is a severe disorder that can interfere with the healing function of sleep. Your brain will not be refreshed if you wake up often during the night because of the brain's normal wake-up reaction when you stop breathing. Sleep apnea can be treated with behavioral techniques or CPAP.

Depression and Anxiety

Mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, can cause memory problems. Stress from a particular situation can be a contributing factor. Treatment of mood disorders can sometimes result in improvements in cognitive function. Sometimes mood symptoms can be subtle, such as irritability and apathy. The individual may not recognize these symptoms.

Medication side effects

Benzodiazepines, used to treat pain, anxiety, sleep problems, and sleep disorders, can have short-term benefits. Still, they can also cause mental fatigue, confusion, and memory problems, making an older person appear to have dementia. It can be beneficial to discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits associated with these medications.

Substance Misuse

Memory can be negatively affected by alcohol misuse and other drugs. Reduced substance abuse or treatment for a substance use disorder can improve cognitive function.

Medical Conditions

Memory problems can be caused by several medical conditions that are reversible.

• Urinary tract infection

• Reduced oxygen levels can cause breathing problems

• Thyroid problems

• Vitamin deficiency (especially vitamin B12).

• Other acute illnesses or infections

When these are detected and treated, there can be significant memory improvement.

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

It is caused by a buildup of excess fluids in the brain's ventricles. This causes pressure, which can cause three classic symptoms: cognitive impairment, urinary incontinence, and wobbly walking. In cases where a patient exhibits all three signs, and the symptoms cannot be attributed to any other cause, NPH should be ruled out. This starts with a conversation with your primary physician, who will help determine if a neurology consult or brain imaging (such as MRI) is necessary. The NPH can often be treated; if it is, a shunt draining the excess fluid will help reverse or improve symptoms.

Neuropsychological evaluation: What is it?

A neuropsychological assessment can quantify cognitive changes and help determine whether they are due to normal aging or mild cognitive impairment. An evaluation should include a review of the medical history. This can identify other possible causes for mental changes.

If you are an older adult who has noticed memory changes, you should know that dementia is not the only possible condition causing these problems.