Capacity & Confusion:

Normal Age-Related memory Changes vs. Alzheimer's Disease

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Normal Age-Related Memory Loss   Alzheimer’s Disease
Memory Loss
Forgetting names and appointments occasionally vs. Forgetting more often; unable to recall info later on
Difficulty performing familiar tasks
Occasionally forgetting why you came into a room or what you planned to say vs. Difficulty completing everyday tasks including meal prep, using telephone
Language problems
Some word finding difficulty vs. Forgetting simple words; substituting words; writing hard to understand
Disorientation to time and place
Forgetting names and appts occasionally vs. Forgetting more often; unable to recall info later on
Disorientation to time and place
Forgetting the day of the week or where you were going vs. Getting lost in the neighborhood; not knowing how to get back home
Poor or decreased judgment
Making questionable or debatable decisions vs. Poor judgment about money, dressing vs. inappropriately, driving, etc.
Abstract thinking
Balancing a checkbook is harder vs. Unusual difficulty performing complex mental tasks; i.e. remembering numbers
Misplacing things
Misplacing keys or wallet temporarily vs. May put things in unusual places, i.e. iron in the freezer, watch in sugar bowl
Changes in mood or behavior
Occasionally feeling sad or moody vs. May show rapid mood swings
Changes in Personality
Personality does change somewhat with age vs. Dramatic personality changes – confusion, suspiciousness, fearful
Loss of initiative
Sometimes tired of work or social obligations vs. May become more passive, sitting or not wanting usual activity level
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