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As we get older, it’s normal for our thinking and memory skills to change, and there is a common misconception that a decline in mental faculties is somehow an acceptable facet of the aging process. While some decline is expected, how much is normal? Understanding what’s considered a typical part of aging versus potential signs of dementia is important.

Elderly, aging – illustrative photo. Image credit: sabinevanerp on Pixabay, free license

What is Cognitive Decline?

Cognitive skills refer to functions like memory, judgement, reasoning and processing speed. Cognitive decline means these skills get gradually worse as we age. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition where greater than normal decline in thinking skills happens, but not severe enough to significantly impact daily life. Someone with MCI is at higher risk of eventually developing dementia, which is why a cognitive function test is so important, as the early detection of cognitive impairment can help improve the patient’s outcome.

Typical Age-Related Cognitive Changes

Some slowing of mental function is a normal part of aging. Common changes include:

• Occasionally forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later
• Taking longer to learn new information
• Difficulty multi-tasking or focusing with distractions
• Needing reminders for dates, medication or occasions

Performance on complex tasks may slow down, but experience and wisdom often compensate in older adults. Mental abilities like vocabulary tend to hold steady or even improve with age.

Potential Signs of Abnormal Decline

More concerning cognitive changes that may signal MCI or early dementia include:

• Consistent forgetfulness that impacts daily life, like forgetting important events or repeating questions
• Difficulty following conversations or TV programs
• Frequently misplacing items or getting lost in familiar places
• Inability to manage finances, follow medication regimen or perform routine tasks
• Confusion about time, people and places
• Withdrawing from work, family or social activities due to mental frustration

What Causes Abnormal Decline?

The most common cause of dementia leading to abnormal cognitive loss is Alzheimer’s disease. Other factors include:

• Vascular dementia from stroke or blood vessel damage
• Lewy body dementia often with Parkinson’s disease
• Frontotemporal dementia affecting personality and behaviour
• Reversible causes like medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies, tumours or depression

In many cases, the exact cause is difficult to determine. Genetics and lifelong health habits may play a role. High blood pressure, obesity and diabetes can increase dementia risk.

Normal Aging vs Dementia

While some cognitive decline is expected, significant impairment impacting daily functioning is not a normal part of aging. Distinguishing typical changes from potential dementia is key. Track your mental abilities and discuss any ongoing concerns with your doctor. Catching early warning signs allows prompt diagnosis and treatment, and rules out other health factors that could be involved.

Staying mentally, physically and socially active may help maintain cognitive skills as you get older. Leading a brain-healthy lifestyle can potentially slow age-related decline. However, dementia is a complex disease. Even with a healthy lifestyle, some degree of eventual mental deterioration in later life may be unavoidable. Monitoring cognitive changes through regular screening becomes especially important as you age.