Normal Aging vs. Dementia, What's the Difference?

As we age, our memory changes naturally and it looks different than it did when we are younger. This can create a lot of uncertainty about whether the changes in memory are caused by normal aging or whether they are warning signs for dementia.

When we age, it might take longer than normal to complete a task like cooking a familiar recipe, or getting used to a new form of technology. We may also lose keys or phone from time to time. That is also normal. Oftentimes, misplacing things comes from a lack of paying attention, not dementia. The forgetfulness that accompanies normal aging may be frustrating, but we can still handle independent and normal life.

Forgetfulness that interferes with our ability to live our daily life may be a warning sign of dementia. This could include forgetting a long-used recipe, no longer being able to use appliances that were previously easy to move or no longer being able to navigate familiar neighborhoods.

For a more detailed differentiation between normal aging and dementia, the National Institute on Aging has helpful resources including the video below detailing the difference between normal aging and dementia. Visit this webpage for more information.

Is Forgetfulness Normal or Not? - YouTube