When Lapses Are Not Just Signs of Aging

This article discusses cognitive impairments, Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia that plague us as we grow older. We are told:

Distinguishing mild cognitive impairment from the effects of normal aging can be challenging. Typically, new patients take a short test of mental status, provide a thorough medical history and are checked for conditions that may be reversible causes of impaired cognition. Problems like depression, medication side effects, vitamin B12 deficiency or an underactive thyroid can mimic the symptoms of mild cognitive impairment.

Experts also suggest several approaches that may slow the decline in cognitive function. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/06/he...rody.html?_r=1

An interesting article with a sense of foreboding.

very informative article, byz. i've discovered some of my meds cause forgetfulness. i was younger when i went on some of those meds so researched their side effects cause i was concerned. now at my age having had a stroke it's caused significant impairment in forgetfulness. thank goodness it's in this area instead of permanent physical consequences. the MRI identified the part of my brain that's affected. i can live with it now. right after the stroke i called all men "mike" it was funny but frustrating. now i can usually recall names but sometimes i am at a loss for words or names. the mind is an interesting thing.