Memory Loss and Older Adults

Why do dementia patients remember some things but forget others? Learn how the brain forms, stores and recalls memories to gain a better understanding of how Alzheimer’s disease affects short-term memory and long-term memory differently.

One sign of the aging brain is repeating stories and questions more often. While there is no quick fix, a change in attitude and some proven strategies can help you keep your cool and preserve your loved one’s dignity.

Insomnia is a bothersome condition often associated with fragmented sleep and fatigue. But when chronic sleep deprivation is left unchecked, it can take a serious toll on a senior’s physical and mental health.

We all lose our keys or glasses sometimes, but what if they start turning up in unusual places? For caregivers who are familiar with dementia, blips like this are troubling. Is misplacing things a sign of cognitive decline, or is it chronic stress?

Younger generations are surprisingly insightful when it comes to handling their elders’ dementia-related behaviors. See what techniques this teenager uses while visiting his grandmother, who has Alzheimer’s disease.

Most seniors take several medications daily, which puts them at an increased risk of misusing their medications and even developing an addiction. Be aware of red flags that may indicate an aging loved one is not taking their prescriptions as directed.

Occupying the middle ground between normal aging and dementia lies a disorder known as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

Aging is full of challenging situations, but being able to appreciate the lighter moments can be a good way to manage stress. Learn how laughter techniques can help caregivers stay healthy.

There's a common misconception that the primary indicator of dementia is memory loss. The reality is that different forms of dementia have different signs. Learn which signs commonly correspond with each type of dementia.

Being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is an overwhelming experience, both for the senior and their family members. Take these seven steps after the diagnosis has been made to get organized and prioritize healthy living.

Dementia expert Teepa Snow examines three common communication breakdowns between dementia patients and caregivers and offers techniques for minimizing conflict and improving trust and understanding.

There are several diagnostic tools that doctors use to test for Alzheimer’s disease. If a senior is experiencing unusual memory problems, confusion or changes in behavior, it is important to make an appointment with their physician as soon as possible.

Medication issues are common among seniors and can have several different underlying causes. Use these simple solutions to help an aging loved one consistently manage their medications and prevent dangerous mistakes.

The early stage of dementia is often difficult to detect since symptoms and age of onset can vary. Keep an eye out for these warning signs.

Learn what red flags to look for and advice on what to do if you think your parent has dementia.

When it comes to caring for the elderly, hygiene issues are surprisingly common. Determining why their personal hygiene habits have changed is the best way to devise a successful strategy for getting a senior to bathe and wear clean clothes.

The most noticeable symptom of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is memory loss, but this progressive condition ultimately weakens the immune system and prevents the body from functioning properly. Complications like infections are often the cause of death.

Alzheimer's disease is not natural aging. It is a progressive disease that causes the abnormal death of brain cells. The initial symptoms include memory loss, but as the disease progresses, it is important to be prepared for increasing levels of care.

Multi-infarct dementia is a type of vascular dementia caused by numerous small strokes in the brain. The damage to brain tissue significantly impairs an elder's memory.

Does my mom have dementia? Alzheimer's is a form of dementia and accounts for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases. Learn the most common symptoms of Alzheimer's, an overview of stages, and the impact of dementia on the ability to function.