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Aging-Related Memory Loss vs. Alzheimer’s Disease

by April 20, 2022

A certain amount of memory loss normally occurs as people age. Nevertheless, seniors and their loved ones should monitor the progression of their memory loss over the years. Doing so—as well as studying the differences between forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s—allows families to recognize when they should seek medical services for a loved one. Depending on the case’s severity, a senior may require full-time care such as that provided by an all-inclusive senior care facility.

Tysons Woods offers just such elder care services and support to residents of Fairfax, VA. Our private, empathetic, and supportive environment for elders includes a fully-trained staff of medical practitioners who are available 24/7. Experience the comfort and specialized care you or your loved one need. Contact us at (703) 846-0395 to schedule a visit.

Forgetfulness

As individuals age, their bodies produce fewer hormones and proteins, the substances that protect and repair the brain. This loss causes increased forgetfulness common among seniors. Individuals with “normal” age-related forgetfulness may forget things from time to time, but their capacity for daily tasks should remain intact.

If you or a loved one struggles with age-related forgetfulness, you may benefit from the following techniques:

  • Maintain an everyday routine
  • Keep organized reminders and calendars
  • Participate in activities that engage your mind and body
  • Keep your belongings in designated spaces
  • Learn new skills

Mild Cognitive Impairment

A more advanced form of memory loss than age-related forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment can constitute an early sign of Alzheimer’s. Its symptoms include:

  • Occasional poor decision making
  • Difficulty selecting words
  • Misplacing things 
  • Briefly forgetting the weekday or date
  • Missing an infrequent bill payment

No formal diagnosis for mild cognitive impairment exists, so a doctor may suggest that you or a loved one visit them often to track your condition. Moreover, the most important component of living with mild cognitive impairment is completing normal tasks. In some cases, partial or full-time care may be helpful, depending on the situation.

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that impairs memory, reasoning, and the ability to carry out tasks. Although irreversible, Alzheimer’s can be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments. The signs of Alzheimer’s include:

  • Difficulty managing bills
  • Making poor decisions or judgments
  • Regularly losing belongings
  • Frequent difficulty recalling the date or time of year
  • Trouble carrying out a conversation

People with Alzheimer’s may experience sudden shifts in behavior, including elevated emotions and refusal of everyday care activities. Moreover, individuals with middle-stage Alzheimer’s often require full-time care, such as that provided by Tysons Woods.

Tysons Woods: All-Inclusive Senior Care in Fairfax, VA

All-Inclusive Senior Care Fairfax VA

Caregivers at Tysons Woods adapt care to the needs of the individual. An all-inclusive senior care provider, we focus on individualized support in a private environment to folks from Fairfax, VA. Our memory care patients never have to move to a separate unit and can participate in activities as they wish. Contact us at (703) 846-0395 and learn more about our services.