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НАШЕ ЖИТТЯ • Листопад 2024 39 OUR HEALTH Ihor Magun, MD, FACP Healthy people can experience memory flaws at any age, and it is normal to become somewhat forgetful with age. What exactly is forgetting? Forgetting essentially is a failure of memory retrieval. Many factors contribute to for - getfulness (which is completely different from memory loss). In - creasing dependence on and use of technology as a source of “re - minders,” constant distractions, and multitasking can all lead to forgetfulness. The task, infor - mation, or object on hand nev - er makes it into our memory in the first place, so retrieving that memory is not possible. One saving grace is what are referred to as “retrieval cues.” These cues are present when the actual memory is encoded. An example is when you forget what you have gone to get from another room, but upon return - ing to your original location, you remember your intended task — that is your “cue.” Inci - dentally, although we depend on electronic devices for reminders, etc., there is nothing wrong with that, provided that we remem - ber to check them periodically. Forgetfulness and Memory Issues Dementia is not a normal part of aging. Dementia involves the loss of cognitive functioning like reasoning, thinking, and remembering. Mem - ory loss is not the only sign of dementia, and there are many different causes and types that are all beyond the scope of this article. What are some of the signs that distinguish normal ageing (NA) from dementia (D)? Here are some examples: NA — forgetting a word D — difficulties having conversations or finding words NA — losing something occasionally D — not knowing that something was lost, or misplacing things and being unable to find them NA — missing a bill payment D — not paying a bill or even knowing a bill needs to be paid The exact pathophysiology of dementia is unclear. The principal patho - logic findings include brain volume loss, brain plaques, and substances re - ferred to as tau tangles. There are many new imaging and blood tests (still not approved for routine tests) to diagnose dementia at an earlier stage. With the growth of the aging population, the prevalence of dementia is unfortunately increasing. However, the incidence of dementia is decreas - ing with control of risk factors that include hypertension, diabetes, and elevated blood lipid levels. Exercise is the most important modifiable risk factor, along with cognitive stimulation, adequate sleep, a good diet (for example, Mediterranean), and the limitation of excess alcohol intake. Ad - ditionally, decreased hearing issues and depression should be addressed. Being socially engaged and learning a new skill are very beneficial. Current medical prescription treatments are somewhat helpful, but be cautious with over-the-counter medications, which may not be helpful and may in fact interfere with medications you may already be taking. Hopefully, current research and use of artificial intelligence will have a significant impact in the treatment of dementia and memory issues. In the meantime, incorporate the advice that is currently proven to be helpful.
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