Memory Changes in Aging: When to Seek Help for Your Loved Ones

Mother's condition?

Hello, Dr.
Liao.
My mother is 65 years old and in good health.
She cooks every day and enjoys making cakes and pastries during holidays.
She also has a habit of reading the news.
Recently, she has been quite busy due to the New Year festivities.
During the New Year, I visited a long-lost elementary school teacher, and my mother asked me what I should bring.
My father suggested I buy coffee beans for her.
However, my mother did not help me prepare any gifts.
That evening, after my visit, she suddenly forgot whether I had brought anything for the teacher.
My father and I reminded her that I had bought coffee beans, and she remembered.

Three days later, my mother checked how many of the New Year pastries she had left and then asked me again, "Did you bring any gifts for the teacher?" I felt a bit anxious and reminded her about the coffee beans.
She remembered again, noting that she had already asked us once before.
I am a little concerned.
Besides this incident, my mother remembers everything else.
There are times when I forget things, and she reminds me (for example, I forgot something I said I would take to work yesterday, and she reminded me).

Could it be that she forgot because she did not personally handle the gift for the teacher? Or was she too busy to pay attention to what I said? Is it because I rarely visit this teacher? Or could there be other reasons? I hope you can provide some guidance.
Thank you.

Rui An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/30

Dr. Liao Miaoyu reply Geriatrics

Hello, it's great that you are concerned about your mother's condition.
I suggest that you observe her from multiple perspectives and in a more nuanced way to understand her cognitive, thought, and behavioral status.
If you notice any abnormalities, seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2020/01/30

More Info

Memory changes in aging can be a source of concern for many families, especially when it comes to distinguishing between normal age-related forgetfulness and potential cognitive decline. In your mother's case, her occasional lapses in memory, such as forgetting whether she brought a gift to your teacher, could be attributed to several factors, including stress, distraction, or simply the natural aging process.

As we age, it is common for individuals to experience some degree of memory decline. This can manifest as occasional forgetfulness, such as misplacing items or having difficulty recalling names or recent events. However, significant memory loss that interferes with daily life or the ability to perform routine tasks may warrant further evaluation. In your mother's situation, her ability to remember other details and remind you of things suggests that her cognitive functions are largely intact.
Several factors could explain her forgetfulness regarding the gift for your teacher:
1. Distraction and Multitasking: During busy periods, such as holidays, individuals may be preoccupied with various tasks and responsibilities. This can lead to lapses in memory, as the brain may not fully encode information when it is distracted. Your mother may have been focused on preparing for the visit and simply did not register the details about the gift.

2. Stress and Fatigue: The holiday season can be stressful, and fatigue can impact cognitive function. If your mother was feeling overwhelmed or tired, this could contribute to her forgetfulness.

3. Normal Age-Related Changes: As people age, it is normal for them to experience some decline in memory. This does not necessarily indicate a serious problem, especially if it is not accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as confusion, difficulty with language, or changes in personality.

4. Contextual Memory: Your mother may have less context or emotional connection to the event of visiting your teacher, especially if it was a rare occurrence. Contextual memory relies on the surrounding details and emotional significance of an event, and if these are lacking, it may be harder to recall specific details later.

To help support your mother and monitor her memory, consider the following strategies:
- Encourage Routine: Establishing a daily routine can help reinforce memory. Encourage her to keep a calendar or a notebook to jot down important events or tasks.

- Engage in Cognitive Activities: Activities that stimulate the brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, can help maintain cognitive function. Encourage her to engage in these activities regularly.

- Stay Socially Active: Social interaction is beneficial for cognitive health. Encourage her to maintain connections with friends and family, as socializing can help keep her mind active.

- Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on her memory over time. If you notice a pattern of increasing forgetfulness or if she begins to struggle with daily tasks, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

- Consult a Specialist: If you have ongoing concerns, consider discussing them with her primary care physician or a neurologist. They can assess her cognitive function and determine if any further testing or intervention is necessary.

In summary, while occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, it is essential to remain vigilant and supportive. By fostering an environment that encourages cognitive engagement and monitoring her memory, you can help ensure that your mother maintains her cognitive health as she ages. If any significant changes occur, seeking professional advice is always a prudent step.

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