Healthy Ageing Month: Early symptoms of cognitive decline seniors shouldn’t ignore

Intermittent memory loss that gets worse over time, repetitive questioning and the inability to recognise different people are indicative of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease (Image: Pexels)

Cognitive decline is one of the most serious issues the elderly face all over the world. Unlike a stroke, a sudden neurological event, cognitive decline sneaks up on you without any obvious symptoms. Early symptoms are often tagged as “normal ageing” by families, resulting in delayed diagnosis and intervention.

Though there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related diseases, experts suggest that preventive measures can lower risk and stall advancement. Families and caregivers have an important role in recognising symptoms early and seeking professional advice

Symptoms of cognitive decline

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According to Dr Shailesh Mohan Badole, Neurologist, Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Hyderabad, and Dr Anil Venkitachalam, Consultant Neurologist, K J Somaiya Hospital & Research Centre, mild cognitive impairment is when a person experiences problems with memory, language, thinking, reason and judgment. If left untreated, these problems can lead to Alzheimer’s or other dementias.

Early detection, the experts say, also means appropriate treatment, planning ahead, and adopting a lifestyle that ensures independence for as long as possible.

Some vital red flags of cognitive decline would include:

• Regular memory disturbances which interferes with activities of daily living
• Trouble with familiar tasks, such as following a recipe or paying bills
• Difficulty finding the perfect word or pauses in speech
• Disorientation in time or place
• Mismanagement or bad decision-making
• Losing things and going places you forget
• Challenges with planning, organising, or following through with a task
• Emotional and behavioral changes
• Increased irritability or anxiety
• Withdrawal from social interactions
• Loss of interest in hobbies or favourite activities without any warning
• Depression or mood changes

Normal Ageing vs dementia

Instances like misplacing keys and later finding them in your hand can happen to anyone as we age. But intermittent memory loss that gets worse over time, repetitive questioning and the inability to recognise different people are indicative of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and should be grounds for immediate medical treatment, the doctors say.

7 lifestyle habits to keep your brain healthy

• Adopt a Mediterranean or DASH diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables and healthy fat
• Keep up the physical activity through regular exercise
• Get adequate sleep
• Challenging mental activities such as games, reading, or taking up new activities.
• Stay connected with others and try not to centralize yourself
• Controlling conditions such as hypertension and diabetes
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol