Health Corner

People often say, “It’s normal for the elderly to be forgetful.” But does forgetfulness really mean someone has dementia? Let’s take a closer look.

What’s the difference between normal aging and dementia?

First, it’s important to understand why older adults may become forgetful. Forgetfulness (decline in memory) is often caused by normal aging, stress, lack of sleep, side effects of medication, or other reversible conditions. Dementia, however, is not just forgetfulness—it refers to a broader decline in cognitive abilities caused by brain degeneration.

Many people mistakenly assume forgetfulness equals dementia and therefore don’t seek medical help in time.

According to the Hong Kong Alzheimer’s Disease Association, the behaviors of older adults experiencing normal aging and those with dementia are quite different:

1. Memory differences

   • Normal aging: Occasionally forgets events but later recalls them; forgetfulness does not significantly affect daily life.

   • Dementia: Frequently forgets recent events, repeatedly asks the same questions, forgets important life moments, and cannot recall them even when reminded—causing disruption to daily routines.

2. Judgment and execution ability

   • Normal aging: Slower in handling complex tasks but can still carry out everyday activities (like cooking) independently; may lose focus occasionally but can regain it.

   • Dementia: Even simple decisions become difficult (e.g., unable to count money, forgetting steps), may get lost in familiar places, and need assistance with simple tasks.

3. Emotional and personality changes

   • Normal aging: May tire easily or feel low mood but is aware of their forgetfulness. Social interests remain unchanged and personality is mostly stable.

   • Dementia: Becomes irritable or suspicious (e.g., accuses others of stealing), loses interest in previously enjoyed activities, becomes apathetic or withdrawn—changes that family members can easily notice.

4. Language and orientation

   • Normal aging: Occasionally forgets words but communication remains smooth; awareness of time and place is normal.

   • Dementia: Has language difficulties, forgets the date, and becomes confused about seasons.

If family members are worried that an elderly person may not just be forgetful but actually showing signs of dementia, they should arrange a medical assessment as soon as possible. Keeping a record of observed behaviors can also help doctors conduct a more thorough evaluation.

The Human Health Eshop offers an Early Alzheimer’s Screening that helps detect the condition in advance:
https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/early_alzheimer_screening

The early Alzheimer’s screening currently costs HK$880. Detecting it in its early stages allows treatment and lifestyle adjustments to slow disease progression—so don’t miss the golden window for intervention.

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