Many older adults worry about whether forgetfulness or difficulty remembering a name is an inevitable part of aging, or a signal of cognitive decline due to dementia. 

An article about dementia in NIH News in Health quoted Sanjay Asthana, MD, professor and head, Geriatrics and Gerontology and Duncan G. and Lottie H. Ballantine Chair in Geriatrics. Dr. Asthana also serves as associate dean for gerontology in the UW School of Medicine and Public Health.

“Dementia really isn’t a disease itself. Instead, dementia is a group of symptoms that can be caused by many different diseases,” said Dr. Asthana. “Symptoms of dementia can include problems with memory, thinking, and language, along with impairments to social skills and some behavioral symptoms.” 

He urged that people and caregivers concerned with memory matters seek a clinician with expertise in diagnosing dementia. 

“NIH has specialized centers across the country that have clinics that can diagnose and evaluate patients with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia,” said Dr. Asthana.

Obtaining a clear diagnosis is difficult and currently impossible for some types of dementia, he cautioned. “There’s no single blood test or brain scan that can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease or some other types of dementia with certainty,” said Dr. Asthana. “In these cases, a definite diagnosis can be made only at autopsy.”

But there are numerous lifestyle activities that can help protect the brain and reduce the risk of dementia, including regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, not smoking, and spending time on social and intellectually stimulating activities. 

Resources:

• "Dealing with Dementia," NIH News in Health, December 2017
• UW Health - Geriatric Health Services