Have you become more forgetful lately? ｜Easy explanation of the difference between forgetfulness due to aging and dementia [with self-check]

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If you feel like you’ve become more forgetful lately

• People’s names don’t come up easily
• We end up having the same story
• I forget what I came to pick up

Many people experience these changes as they grow older.
Especially in Japan, as the population continues to age, “forgetfulness” and “early symptoms of dementia” are becoming searchable topics.

Author: “When you forget things more and more, you end up thinking the worst.But first, it’s important to calm down and know the difference.”

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What is forgetfulness due to aging? [Natural changes that occur in many people]

Forgetfulness that occurs with age is a natural phenomenon of brain aging.

Characteristics of forgetfulness due to aging

• It takes time to remember
• If you have a hint, you can remember
• I am aware that I have forgotten
• No major problems in daily life

Common examples

• “I can’t find the actor’s name, but I can recognize his face”
• “I later realize that I forgot to buy one item while shopping”

Author: “This is not a case of “memory disappearing,” but a condition in which “it has become difficult to retrieve.”

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What is forgetfulness due to dementia? [Signs that require attention]

On the other hand, dementia is characterized by forgetting the experience itself.

Characteristics of forgetfulness in dementia

• Forgetting the event itself
• I can’t remember even if I give you a hint
• Less aware of forgetting
• Difficulty in daily life

Common examples

• Forgetting that you have eaten
• Ask the same question over and over again
• Getting lost on a familiar path
• Suddenly unable to manage money

Author: “Huh? The point is that not only will the number of problems increase, but the number of problems will also increase.

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Understand at a glance | Difference between aging and dementia

Comparison items	Forgetfulness due to aging	Dementia
How to forget	Forget a part	Forget the whole thing
Hints	Can remember	Can’t remember
Aware	Yes	Little
Effect on life	Almost none	Has a problem

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Be careful if these symptoms continue [Self-check]

If you experience multiple or continuous conditions below, consider consulting with a specialist.

• Telling the same story over and over again
• Lost knowing dates and seasons
• Suddenly became angry
• Become indifferent to personal appearance
• Completely forgetting an appointment or payment

Author: “Forgetfulness can also occur due to temporary fatigue or stress.The criterion for judgment is whether it is sudden or persistent.”

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You can start today | Lifestyle habits that help prevent dementia

Dementia is said to be largely related to daily lifestyle.

① Create a habit of talking to people

• Conversations with family and friends
• Just a greeting is OK

Author: “Conversation is the best stimulation for the brain”

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② Move your body lightly

• Walk
• Gymnastics
• Housework

👉 Improves blood flow and supports brain function

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③ Chew your food thoroughly

• Chewing action activates the brain
• Don’t use only soft foods

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④ Get good quality sleep

• The brain organizes and recovers during sleep
• Reduce staying up late

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⑤ Continue the habit of using your head

• Write a diary
• Simple calculations
• Remember what’s on TV

Author: “Enjoying” rather than “trying hard” is the key to longevity.

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Not being too anxious is also good for your brain

If you believe that forgetfulness = dementia,
your memory may actually deteriorate due to anxiety and stress.

Author: “Knowing is the best way to reduce anxiety”

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Summary｜It is important to notice forgetfulness early

• Forgetfulness is caused by aging and dementia
• If you know the difference, you don’t have to be unnecessarily afraid
• Reviewing lifestyle habits is the best prevention
• Don’t keep yourself alone when you’re anxious