Old Age Memory & Behavioural Problems

Age-Related Memory Loss

As you grow older, you experience physiological changes that can cause glitches in brain functions you’ve always taken for granted. It takes longer to learn and recall information.

You’re not as quick as you used to be. In fact, you may mistake this slowing of your mental processes for true memory loss. But in most cases, if you give yourself time, the information will come to mind.

So, while it’s true that certain brain changes are inevitable when it comes to aging, major memory problems are not one of them. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between normal age-related forgetfulness and the symptoms that may indicate a developing cognitive problem.

Normal Forgetfulness vs. Dementia

For most people, occasional lapses in short-term memory are a normal part of the aging process, not a warning sign of serious mental deterioration or the onset of Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

The following types of memory lapses are normal among older adults and generally are not considered warning signs of dementia:

- Occasionally forgetting where you left things you use regularly, such as glasses or keys. Forgetting names of acquaintances or blocking one memory with a similar one, such as calling a grandson by your son’s name.

- Occasionally forgetting an appointment or walking into a room and forgetting why you entered.

- Becoming easily distracted or having trouble remembering what you’ve just read, or the details of a conversation.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is not a specific disease but is rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with doing everyday activities.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Though dementia mostly affects older adults, it is not a part of normal aging.

Behavioral Disorders

Behavioral disorders, also known as disruptive behavioral disorders, are the most common reasons that parents are told to take their kids for mental health assessments and treatment. Behavioral disorders are also common in adults. If left untreated in childhood, these disorders can negatively affect a person’s ability to hold a job and maintain relationships.

What Are the Types of Behavioral Disorders?

According to BehaviorDisorder.org, behavioral disorders may be broken down into a few types, which include:

• Anxiety disorders
• Disruptive behavioral disorders
• Dissociative disorders
• Emotional disorders
• Pervasive developmental disorders