Everyday memory lapses like misplaced keys or forgotten names are often mistaken for signs of dementia. However, neuroscience experts emphasize that early cognitive changes may be reversible when addressed promptly. Dr. Tommy Wood, a pediatrics and neuroscience professor at the University of Washington, notes that minor forgetfulness is usually due to fatigue or stress, not neurodegenerative disease.
Common Causes of Forgetfulness
Dr. Wood explains that most forgetfulness is linked to stress or tiredness, not paying attention. He advises focusing on important information to help your brain remember it. Memory forms in three stages: encoding, consolidation, and retrieval. Stress or lack of sleep often affects retrieval, meaning the memory is there but hard to access at the moment.
In contrast, neurodegenerative diseases may prevent memory encoding. If you notice issues, that’s often a positive sign, indicating awareness and potential for improvement.
Understanding and Preventing Dementia
Dementia involves a severe loss of cognitive function, affecting daily life. Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia make up 70% to 90% of cases, often showing overlapping signs. Research shows that at least 50% of dementia cases are preventable by addressing lifestyle and health factors. Key risks include heart and metabolic issues, as well as hearing and vision loss.
Dr. Wood stresses the importance of resolving physical health issues, like obtaining hearing aids or cataract surgery, to directly lower cognitive decline risks. Belief in the possibility of prevention encourages proactive engagement in protective activities.
Recognizing Reversible Causes
Dr. Wood’s emphasis on reversible causes of cognitive symptoms is supported by Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic. Several treatable conditions can mimic early dementia symptoms or contribute to subjective cognitive decline:
- Vitamin deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 or B1, crucial for brain function.
- Thyroid issues, especially hypothyroidism, affecting brain metabolism.
- Medication side effects from sedatives or multiple drugs in older adults.
- Mental health disorders, like depression and severe anxiety, causing cognitive slowing that improves with treatment.
- Chronic kidney or liver failure, and electrolyte imbalances, altering brain chemicals.
Addressing physical health issues, such as managing high blood pressure, correcting vision or hearing problems, and staying active, reduces cognitive decline risks. Cleveland Clinic notes the urgency of early clinical intervention when changes in brain function or executive ability are observed.
Dr. Wood highlights that daily brain function reflects the brain’s overall state. Recognizing changes offers time to implement necessary improvements.