Early dementia or just part of aging

I'm no expert, but I heard someone put it this way:

If you forget where you put your car keys, that's aging.
If you forget what your car keys are for, that's Alzheimer's.

Yes, this simplifies and puts things in perspective. Thanks for taking the time in sharing.

https://www.neurotrackerx.com/post/top-cognitive-exercises-to-keep-elderly-minds-sharp
Maybe some of this will help. I can tell you that learning new things and vigorous walking are excellent for sharpening then re-invigorating my brain.

@cosynook I can relate. My mother had Alzheimer’s and I too worry about Alzheimer’s or dementia. At age 79, so far so good - forgetful (I have forgotten to turn on the over after putting dinner in there, but so far haven’t placed anything in the fridge that shouldn’t be there), distracted, but no diagnosis. I am hoping that doing brain exercising games on my tablet will keep dementia at bay. @gloaming’s suggestion is also good.

My mother was diagnosed at age 80 and died at age 86 - from a hip fracture that the hospital surgeon determined would kill her if he operated so he didn’t. The fracture killed her anyway; go figure. 🤷🏼‍♀️

@scottrl
Yes, my aunt who has dementia first noticed when she couldn't remember how to open a pull top can of coke. She has mild dementia.

The words about the car keys... I must mention to husband as he also is worried, as I am. He is 73 I am 82. We both have a bit of a list of health issues. His Dad and my Mum both Alzheimers.. so we are concerned. I definitely feel my brain is not too sharp lately and as above wonder if ageing or dementia.. but I also find I am not concentrating on things as I should - am listening to you tube relaxtion tapes and planning in my mind whats for supper tomorrow; or thinking about the past! He is showing a few more signs. As we are a bit isoalted esp. during our long cold winters and friends and family died (although 2 daughters nearby).... we rarely go out due to ibs-d etc etc... never ever spend this much time together either! We sure miss our past!

You can always speak with your doctor, but it sounds like you are very engaged and aware. My dad had Alz, but wa not affected that much until his late 80’s.

Based on what I have experienced and read, I intend to stay social, active, interact with multiple people daily, and continue working (my job requires substantial complex mental exercises and problem solving) in some capacity.

@celia16 ...yes we appreciate what we have, to an extent..whats the old saying I forget exactly: nothing to fear but fear itself...? Many of us fear demntia and know someone who has/had it... wonderful neighbour around my age and then asking us to go to her house as female visitor there etc etc even made the imaginary visitor a sandwich... when we, husband or I, forget something or simply cannot remember what day of the week it is, we do worry....

I've been concerned, as well, especially with a diagnosis that can mimic temporary dementia-like symptoms. I often wonder, will I come out of this time?

Here are some helpful checklists from the Alzheimer's Association.
https://alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/documents/young-onset-dementia-personal-symptom-checklist.pdf

The first one is for young onset, which might help distinguish from normal aging.

As can this one...
https://alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/documents/tipsheet_preparingforyourdoctor_e.pdf.pdf