If you are finding it hard to remember things and you are getting older, you may be worried that there is something serious wrong with you and that these memory problems may be the first signs of dementia.
But in fact we all have lapses of memory sometimes. We have all asked ourselves where we left our glasses, what on earth our neighbour told us this morning, or just what we were about to do.
On the other hand, if you keep forgetting things, it is worth seeing your doctor. They will take you seriously and assess why you are having problems with your memory.
One cause of memory problems is indeed dementia, but there are many other possible reasons: people experiencing depression, anxiety or stress for example often find it hard to remember things.
It is also possible that your memory problems are a symptom of an infection, underactive thyroid, vitamin deficiency, a side effect of medication, or another condition.
Your doctor will want to eliminate all of these conditions before diagnosing dementia, and in particular they will want to rule out depression because problems with memory, concentration, sleep and communicating your feelings – as well as changes in your behaviour – can appear very similar in both dementia and depression.
There are, however, some important differences between depression and dementia that can help with a diagnosis: depression tends to develop over weeks or months, while dementia’s progress is usually slower; people with dementia often struggle with speech, reasoning and where they are in time and space, but this is rare in people with depression; people with depression can usually remember when prompted, unlike people with dementia; the reasoning and memory problems associated with depression go when the depression does, but is a permanent and increasing feature of dementia.
If you are diagnosed with dementia, you may feel worried about your memory and what will happen. Many people in the early stages of dementia experience depression or anxiety, and this can make it even harder for you to remember things and to participate in life.
Depression can affect someone with dementia at any stage of the disease and can increase symptoms such as aggression, sleeping or eating problems.
Whether your dementia is newly diagnosed or you have been living with it for a while, if you experience symptoms of depression you should seek help from your doctor because with treatment your depression will lift and you will be better able to cope with your dementia.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Not necessarily. Everyone experiences occasional memory lapses, such as misplacing glasses or forgetting names. These are common and often not a sign of dementia.
If memory issues happen frequently or worsen over time, it’s a good idea to see your doctor. They can assess what’s causing the problems and rule out other possible conditions.
Yes. Memory issues can also result from depression, anxiety, stress, infections, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, or medication side effects.
Depression usually comes on more quickly and may improve with treatment. In contrast, dementia progresses more slowly and affects speech, reasoning, and orientation. People with depression can often recall things when prompted, unlike those with dementia.
It’s important to seek help. Depression can occur at any stage of dementia and can worsen symptoms. Treatment can improve your mood and help you manage your condition more effectively.
