Identifying An Alzheimer’s Symptom

There are many signs of aging that are often confused with an Alzheimer’s symptom. Conversely, there are many signs of Alzheimer’s that often go undiagnosed, and worse than that, often go untreated. There are normal, qualitative signs of aging that involve memory loss and some noticeable decrease in motor skills and general reflexes. Then there are signs that are further related to an Alzheimer’s symptom. The question for many is, of course, how do you tell them apart? Is there a distinction?

Memory Loss And Aging

The ability to retain facts and ideas decreases as the brain ages. That is a known scientific fact related to the notion that encoded new information becomes more difficult as time passes and the brain loses its abilities to comprehend. Effectively, what is known as “working memory” is affected most.

Working memory is a framework term that refers to the brain and its ability to store information temporarily and manipulate it into cognitive resources or learned motor skills. The term was introduced recently (in the 1960’s) as a term that related to a computer’s memory, created a comparison between the computer’s memory and the human’s mind. Working memory is also defined as, essentially, a sort of “working attention” which denotes that a thought or “memory” may pass into “learning”.

As we age, therefore, our working memory diminishes. Most experts suggest that working memory has a function ability limit which denotes that it can become “full” of functional memory information or stimuli. As we age, our working memory is more likely to become filled with other ideas and pieces of information so the ability of our memory to retain it would, naturally, be diminished as well. This is all related to normal, adult-aging memory loss.

Deciphering Memory Loss As An Alzheimer’s Symptom

As an Alzheimer’s symptom, memory loss is traditionally one piece of a larger puzzle. If the memory loss is accompanied by a reduction in basic learning and motor skills, it is possible to consider Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is often discovered as a deeper loss of memory, for example people and places are forgotten in the long term. The memory loss appears to almost bury itself in the brain and tear away details from the patient’s mind. It is frustrating and difficult to experience for the sufferer, so patience is needed from all supporters and the offering of love and acceptance should always be present.