Is your loved one slowly losing their memory? Let's talk about early dementia

Have you ever noticed that an elderly person, like your mother, father, or grandmother, forgets things little by little? For example, they forget where they put their glasses , or they don't immediately remember the name of someone they know. Although we think these things are normal as we get older, sometimes they can be the first signs of a serious illness. That's why we're talking about this condition today called dementia . This is a very sensitive topic, so let's talk about everything simply and in a way that is understandable.

What exactly is Dementia?

Simply put, dementia is a serious condition that gradually impairs the functioning of our brain . It is not just forgetfulness. It directly affects the cognitive functions of our brain.

Think of our brain as a very complex, powerful computer. This computer controls everything about us. When dementia develops, it's like important programs in this computer stop working.

The main things affected by this are:

• Memory: Forgetting things, especially recent ones.
• Thinking: Inability to think clearly and reason.
• Learning: Difficulty learning something new.
• Problem Solving : Inability to find solutions to everyday problems.
• Language and Speech: Difficulty finding words when speaking, inability to carry on a conversation.
• Planning : Inability to plan and carry out work in an orderly manner.

In addition, there may be changes in a person's personality and behavior . A person who was previously very calm may suddenly become angry and agitated. Usually, doctors do not label this as dementia unless these symptoms persist for at least six months.

Is all forgetfulness dementia?

This is the biggest question that many people have. Some people are afraid, "Am I forgetting things now? Am I going to develop dementia?" In fact, it's normal for our brain processes to slow down a bit as we age. While it can be a big problem, it's not so much that it prevents us from doing our daily activities.

But dementia is something different. Let's understand this difference clearly.

What causes dementia?

There is no single cause of dementia. There can be many causes. The best part is that some of these causes are reversible .

Curable causes:

• Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients, especially vitamin B12, can affect memory.
• Infections: Things like urinary tract infections can cause mental confusion in adults.
• Medication side effects : Memory loss can occur when certain medications are taken together or as a side effect of certain medications .
• Thyroid problems: Low thyroid hormone levels can also affect it.
• Alcohol use: Excessive alcohol consumption damages the brain.
• Depression: Sometimes a person suffering from severe depression can show symptoms of dementia.
• Hydrocephalus: Pressure caused by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.

Irremediable causes:

The most common and most common of these is Alzheimer's disease . This is the leading cause of dementia among older adults. It is characterized by the gradual destruction of brain cells over time.

An intermediate condition called MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment)

Now let's talk about a slightly more complicated, but very important condition: Mild Cognitive Impairment , or MCI .

Simply put, MCI is an intermediate condition that is more forgetful than normal aging, but not as severe as dementia.

A person with MCI has memory problems, which are noticeable to them and to their loved ones. However, they can still perform their daily activities without much difficulty. This is the main difference between dementia and MCI.

There are also types of MCI. The type that mainly affects memory is called "amnestic MCI." Amnesia means loss of memory, which is where the name comes from.

What should we do? When should we see a doctor?

If you or someone close to you feels like they have the following symptoms, please don't be afraid or panic, but talk to a doctor.

• If memory loss is affecting daily life (e.g. forgetting to pay bills, forgetting to take medication).
• If the ability to plan or solve problems is reduced (e.g. forgetting the order in which a dish is cooked).
• If you have difficulty doing a routine task (e.g., not being able to find the items you need at your usual supermarket).
• If you are confused about time or place.
• If you have difficulty finding words when speaking or have problems when writing.
• If things are always going missing and you can't find where they are.
• If your decision-making ability has decreased.
• If you stay away from social activities.
• If you see clear changes in mood and personality.

Dementia, Memory Loss, Alzheimer's, Alzheimer's disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment, MCI, Elderly Health