As our central nervous system’s command center, the brain is responsible for regulating everything from our thoughts, behaviors and emotions to every single one of our bodily functions.
When forgetfulness becomes worrisome or progresses to something more than just misplacing keys, it’s worth checking out.
According to National Institutes of Health (NIH) researchers, about 42% of Americans over the age of 55 will develop dementia at some point.
Dementia vs Alzheimer’s: Many use the terms interchangeably, but dementia is essentially an umbrella term for all types of memory loss, and Alzheimer’s is the most common one.
There are more than 100 different types of dementia, but most are quite rare: Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies make up 90% of dementia cases.
Growing older may put you at a higher risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s, but old age alone is not the cause of memory loss. There are many people who live into their 100s without dementia.
The good news: many of these risk factors are within our control, and according to 2024 research data, nearly 45% of all dementia cases may be prevented or delayed.
It’s less about forgetting where you put your keys and more about forgetting what the keys are for. It’s problems with thinking, decision-making, judgment and language. Forgetting not just a name but also a familiar face.
Check in with your ArchWell Health provider or your regular primary care provider if you are noticing early symptoms. If you’re seeing these signs in a friend or relative, be compassionate and considerate in addressing the concerns and encouraging a check-up.
Get answers to common Alzheimer’s and Dementia Questions here or schedule an appointment with your provider.
ArchWell Health is part of the Metro Philadelphia Community Connect sponsored content program.
