The Fear of Memory Loss: Is It Paralyzing Your Life?

 

We all fear memory loss and we all suffer moments of concern when we can’t find our car keys or the television remote.  It happens, and thoughts of Alzheimer’s disease or the prospect of a slow mental decline begins to rear its ugly head.

 

In his book “Breaking the Rules of Aging,” David A. Lipschitz, M.D., PhD. writes about memory loss and other age related issues with practical advice and reassurances. This book is a common sense response to the media hype surrounding the aging process.  We are bombarded daily with Information that leaves us feeling unsettled and alarmed, despite the fact that people are living longer and more productively than ever before.  So, should we be worried?  Everyone assumes that memory loss and mental decline are somewhat inevitable, but memory loss isn’t normal and it isn’t a natural consequence of aging.  Most people will remain mentally sharp as they age.

 

If you take care of yourself and stay physically healthy there is a pretty good chance that you will retain your mental capabilities.  This doesn’t mean that you aren’t vulnerable to conditions that could affect your mind and memory.  The most common cause of memory loss is Alzheimer’s.  Other illnesses that can cause problems are vascular dementia, high blood pressure, nutrition deficiencies and depression.  These conditions aren’t necessarily relegated to old age.  If you are having significant memory lapses (significant means that it is impinging on your ability to function normally) it is because there is something physically, emotionally, or mentally wrong with you.

 

If you are concerned about your memory lapses you should see your physician immediately.  There are dozens of physical problems that could be contributing to your problems.  A few common problems include:

• Depression
• Medications.  A good many prescription and over the counter drugs can cause memory impairment.
• Alcohol. One of the most common causes of memory problems.
• Sleep disorders are also common causes of memory problems.

 

Many of these disorders are easy to treat, which is why you should be seeing a physician who specializes in the problems that face an older population.  The minute you hear the words “you’re just getting older,” in response to your fears, be ready to ask questions and demand answers.  Memory lapses could very well be symptoms and it should not be assumed that they are a fact of life.

 

He goes on to discuss ways to protect your memory, which includes the well known “use it or lose it” advice.  Studies show that learning and mental activity is the best ways to ensure mental independence.  Reading, writing and arithmetic along with good health practices are all good ways to keep your mind sharp. Altering your lifestyle and taking care of yourself doesn’t cost a thing, has no side effects and you don’t need a prescription.  For now this is the most effective way to keep your mind sharp, no matter how old you are.  People who keep physically and mentally active do better than those who are content to just watch the grass grow.