Lake Regional Health System | Thrive | Summer 2020

4 | Summer 2020 NEUROLOGY Is it simply aging or is it Y ou’ve misplaced your car keys — again. Or you can’t remember a word you’ve used many times, even though it’s on the tip of your tongue. The older you get, the more likely you’re apt to wonder: Are memory slips like this early signs of Alzheimer’s disease? The first thing to know is that mild forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging. The concern is when memory problems become serious. For instance, if you can’t retrace your steps and find those car keys or you don’t eventually come up with the right word, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. Know the signs Alzheimer’s is a disorder of the brain that affects memory, thinking and rea- soning. It gets worse throughout time. Most people display their first signs and symptoms when they’re in their mid-60s. Those signs and symptoms can include: • Getting lost in familiar places • Having trouble paying bills or managing money • Misplacing things in odd places — putting mail in the freezer, for example • Repeating questions • Taking longer to complete normal daily tasks ALZHEIM