Age Related Memory Loss: What’s Considered Normal

It happens so often that it has earned a nickname: senior moment. The dreaded senior moment can start any time from midlife on, and while occasional misplacement of keys or forgetfulness might be normal, you may still worry that it’s a sign of something more ominous. According to research, age-related memory loss is fairly common. The first symptoms usually begin in your 50s, and by 65, most people have some degree of it. Researchers do not yet know if age-related memory loss is due to the loss of grey matter or decreased blood flow to the brain or other factors, but you can keep your brain healthy longer with a good health habits and a few simple changes.

1. Activity
Physical activity keeps your blood flowing not just to your body but also to the brain. Just 45 minutes of exercise a few times a week can also boost memory function because it helps strengthen connections between neurons and help develop new neurons.

2. A balanced diet
Several studies have shown that a healthy diet full of nutrient-rich foods can promote healthy brain function and help in the prevention of brain shrinkage. Try to pack your meals full of colorful vegetables and fruits as well as whole grains, fatty fish, lean proteins and healthy fats such as those found in coconut oil. Vitamins C, E, B6 and 12 are especially important.

3. Improving cognitive skills
Because the brain producing new brain cells at any age, you can actually improve your cognitive skills and keep your memory sharp over time. Use it to your benefit by learning new skill, including dancing, knitting or gardening. Puzzles can also be good options, including word searches, crossword puzzles or sudokus. Learning something new can boost your cognitive function almost immediately.

Misplacement of keys or phone, forgetting appointments or the titles of songs, becoming easily distracted and going places in the house and forgetting why can be frustrating, but they are generally normal age-related changes. It is also normal to forget acquaintance s names on occasion. However, pay attention to dementia symptoms. Abnormal memory loss may be marked by forgetting the purpose of everyday objects, forgetting close family members’ names and becoming easily disoriented indicate the need to talk to a doctor.