Is It Alzheimer’s or Normal Aging? How to Know the Difference and Why It Matters

July 28, 2025 | Blog

Just because you’re misplacing your keys doesn’t mean it’s Alzheimer’s.

As a person ages, it’s natural to wonder: Is this just aging, or something more serious like dementia or Alzheimer’s? Occasional forgetfulness is common. But how do you tell the difference between normal memory loss and dementia?

Let’s walk through the facts together so you can feel informed, empowered, and supported – whether it’s for yourself, a loved one, or someone in your community.

Dementia Versus Normal Aging: What’s the Difference?

Normal aging comes with occasional memory lapses, but overall function remains stable. Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is a progressive decline that interferes with daily life.

Normal Aging Might Look Like:

• Occasionally forgetting names, then remembering later
• Sometimes misplacing things (like your glasses or keys)
• Needing reminders for appointments or tasks
• Taking longer to recall a word or complete a thought

Dementia Symptoms Often Include:

• Frequent memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks (like following a recipe)
• Confusion about time or place
• Trouble speaking or writing clearly
• Misplacing things and not being able to retrace steps
• Poor judgment or decision-making
• Withdrawal from work or social activities

Q: I Keep Misplacing Things. Should I Be Worried?

Not necessarily. Everyone misplaces items occasionally. The main difference is what happens next. With normal aging, you’ll likely find the item eventually and remember how it got there. With dementia, you might not recall putting it there – or even recognize it as yours.

Q: My Parent Seems More Forgetful. How Can I Tell If It’s Serious?

Look for patterns and interference with daily life. One missed appointment isn’t a red flag. But consistent confusion, trouble handling finances, or difficulty holding conversations could point to something more than normal aging.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Repeating the same questions over and over
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Forgetting common words or using odd substitutions
• Withdrawing from family, hobbies, or social life
• Changes in personality or mood

Q: Is It Dementia or Just Aging? How Can I Know for Sure?

You don’t have to guess. Talk to a doctor. They can evaluate symptoms, rule out other causes (like medication side effects or depression), and recommend next steps. Early detection matters – it opens the door to care, planning, and support.

Q: If It Is Dementia, What Can We Do?

While there’s no cure yet, early intervention can make a big difference in quality of life. Doctors can help manage symptoms, connect you to support resources, and recommend lifestyle changes to protect brain health.

How Can I Support Brain Health as I Age?

Whether you’re 45 or 85, it’s never too late to “maintain your brain.”

10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet (like the Mediterranean diet)
• Stay physically active
• Keep learning and challenging your brain
• Get enough sleep
• Manage stress
• Stay socially connected
• Control blood pressure and cholesterol
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol
• Get regular checkups

The Bottom Line

Forgetfulness doesn’t mean you’re losing your mind. Memory changes are a normal part of getting older – but when those changes begin to disrupt life, it’s time to check in.

Knowing the difference between dementia and normal aging can ease your worries, guide your next steps, and connect you or a loved one to the right kind of support. At The Brielle in Staten Island, NY, we offer a range of care and service options tailored to the challenges of aging and Alzheimer’s. Our compassionate staff provides assistance with daily activities, medication management, and around-the-clock support to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.

Whether it’s through our Health & Wellness programs, comfortable floor plans, and unique services like Heartfelt Connections—A Memory Care Program™, The Brielle is committed to enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

Take the next step towards peace of mind. Schedule a visit to explore how The Brielle can support you and your loved ones today.