Baby boomer who are confused and easily forget things don’t necessarily have Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Many treatable diseases and conditions seem similar to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
“Dementia means that your brain deteriorates, and cognition, behavior and ability to do activities of daily living are impaired,” said Director of Operations Mary O’Connor at the Senior Helpers Oak Brook Office.
“It is important for all baby boomers to speak with their physician and have a physical so their memory issues can be identified.”
Here are a few medical problems that often cause symptoms looking like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
- Urinary Tract and other infections - It is not that easy to diagnose a urinary tract infection because there may be little or no pain or discomfort. However, it is important to diagnose this condition because it’s a leading cause of sepsis, a life-threatening infection. Since this infection causes stress on the body, it can result in confusion and changes in behavior. Once diagnosed, it can usually be treated with antibiotics and successfully overcome. Other infections may also cause memory symptoms but typically can be managed well when caught early.
- Depression - If you’re depressed, you may find it hard to focus or remember things you need to do. You also may sleep too much or too little, not wanting to spend time with your friends and loved ones. Your physician needs to determine if this medical condition is causing memory issues. Depression should be treated.
- Medications - Medications can cause Alzheimer’s and dementia-like symptoms. Even discontinuing the use of some prescriptions can also result in disorientation. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome and a sudden withdrawal for anti-anxiety drugs are two common examples that can have a memory change as well.
- Stroke or Mini Stroke - Sometimes a stroke or mini stroke can cause vascular dementia. Many baby boomers don’t even realize they’ve had a mini stroke. Only when signs of dementia start to appear do they suspect something is wrong. This condition is sometimes treatable with cognitive rehab and certain medications.
These are not the only conditions that can cause Baby Boomers to think they have Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. For example, unknown hearing loss, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems and substance abuse are just a few. See your doctor to determine the reasons for your memory problem.
For more information about how Senior Helpers can help you or a loved one, call: 630-359-5775 or email Mary O’Connor at moconnor@seniorhelpers.com.
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