Is dementia a normal part of aging?

For years, many of us thought that dementia was just a normal part of aging—that we’d all become forgetful or “senile” as we got older. But as we’re living longer and learning more about the aging process, it’s becoming clear that dementia isn’t an inevitable part of getting older.

So, what’s the difference between normal aging and dementia? It’s natural to have the occasional memory lapse as we age, like forgetting a name or misplacing your keys. But how do you know when those memory slips might be something more serious that needs a doctor’s attention?

Dementia:

• Forgetting the names of close friends or family members or not remembering recent events, like visitors you had earlier in the day.
• Putting objects in unusual places, like your keys in the bathroom cabinet.
• Struggling to plan, think things through, or express thoughts clearly, with frequent pauses.
• Having significant difficulty concentrating.
• Finding it hard to follow or join a conversation.
• Losing track of the date, season, or the passage of time entirely.

So, how can you keep your brain healthy as you age? It turns out that what’s good for your heart is also good for your brain. Experts recommend sticking to healthy habits like regular exercise and balanced meals. But there’s more! Staying socially engaged, having a strong support system, and challenging yourself with hobbies or new activities are all key. The trick is to find activities that are mentally engaging without being too stressful.