The main distinction between memory loss due to aging, and memory loss due to dementia, is that problems in age-related memory loss, do not affect daily functioning, or the ability to live independently. Age-related memory loss, is not a precursor to mild cognitive impairment or dementia.
Table 1: Characteristics of memory impairment (adapted from Neurological Foundation of New Zealand). |
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Normal age-related "forgetfulness" |
Mild cognitive impairment |
Dementia |
Sometimes misplaces keys, spectacles, or other items | Frequently misplaces items | Forgets what an item is used for or puts it in an inappropriate place |
Momentarily forgets an acquaintance's name | Frequently forgets people's names and is slow to recall them | May not remember knowing a person |
Occasionally has to "search" for a word | Finding words becomes more difficult | Begins to lose language skills. May withdraw from social interaction |
Occasionally forgets to run an errand | Begins to forget events or newly learned information | Loses sense of time. Doesn't know what day it is |
May forget an event from the distant past | May forget more recent events or newly learned information | Working memory is seriously impaired. Has difficulty learning or remembering new information |
When driving may momentarily forget where to turn. Quickly orients self | May temporarily become lost more often. May have trouble understanding and following a map | Becomes easily disoriented or lost in familiar places, sometimes for hours |
Jokes about memory loss | Worries about memory loss. Family and friends notice the lapses | May have little or no awareness of cognitive problems |
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