When does old age forgetfulness become a problem?

If you have asked yourself this question then perhaps you are concerned that a loved one could be suffering with Alzheimer's disease, a form of dementia that causes healthy cells in the brain to die.

Forgetfulness and minor memory loss can be a normal part of ageing which makes it very difficult to distinguish between what is normal and what are the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Forgetting the name of something is not unusual at any age, however if you notice that a loved one finds it difficult to answer questions or hold a conversation then this could be the first sign of a dementia like Alzheimer’s disease. Short term memory loss is a more obvious sign that someone could have a type of dementia like Alzheimer’s disease. For example, if you find they ask the same question twice within a short space of time.

The progressive nature of this disease means that the stages of dementia can sneak up on an individual and their family. What started as a minor loss in memory can progress into other symptoms like further deterioration in language, restlessness, confusion, or someone who does not show a normal emotional reaction to events; this is called emotional apathy and can be very upsetting for loved ones of dementia sufferers.

If this sounds like someone you know, or you’ve found yourself struggling with these symptoms then it is important to seek help. There are many resources available to help people with dementia and their families cope like www.aboutmemoryproblems.com

Memory Problems? is an educational programme funded and initiated by Eisai Europe Ltd. and Pfizer Ltd.

Date of preparation March 2010

Eisai: ART-EU 2188

Pfizer: EBTARP-10-77