When is "forget or forget" no longer normal?
MSc. Dr. Nguyen Van Hai - Institute of Mental Health, Bach Mai Hospital said that cognitive decline is becoming a global health problem. Statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that there are currently about 55 million people living with dementia, with nearly 10 million new cases each year.
At Bach Mai Hospital, we have recorded a significant increase in the number of patients coming for examination and treatment due to problems related to cognitive decline. This is an alarming situation, requiring proper attention from the community Dr. Hai shared.
Many people think that memory loss is inevitable in old age. However, the line between normal reasoning and cognitive decline is very fragile.
Forgetting due to common aging: Occasionally forgetting the names of acquaintances, forgetting the place to store items, but can remember them after suggestions. Does not greatly affect daily activities.
Forgetting due to cognitive decline: Often forgetting important events, being uncomfortable or unable to remember them even when mentioned. It is possible to forget how to use familiar devices and seriously affect work and life.
For example: you forget the name of an old friend but after a while or when mentioned, you can remember it. On the contrary, people with cognitive decline may forget how to use phones and rice cookers even after decades of using them.
Early warning signs
Doctor Hai recommends that if you have the following symptoms, you should pay special attention and see a doctor early:
memory loss affects life: Continuously asking and asking, forgetting recent events, and relying heavily on notes.
Difficulty in planning and solving problems: Cooking with familiar recipes, difficulty in managing finances, forgetting to pay bills.
Taking time and space apart: Not remembering the date or season, easily getting lost in a familiar area.
Language difficulties: Difficulty finding the correct words, calling the wrong names of objects, interrupting communication.
Lost items: Often leave items in unusual places (in the microwave) and suspect that someone else took them away.
Reduced judgment: Unreasonable financial decisions, wearing clothes that do not suit the weather.
Mood changes and personality: Irried, restless, suspicious, depressed or unusually indifferent.
Withdrawal from society: Loss of interest in interests, avoiding family and friends gatherings.
Early discovery has survival meaning. It opens up opportunities for timely intervention, slowing the progression of the disease and helping patients and their families have the best preparation" - Dr. Hai emphasized.
