The doctor quickly uncovered the underlining issue: Mom was experiencing an adverse effects from a medication recently prescribed for arthritis pain. When switched to a different drug, their mother was back to her old self in no time.

As we grow older, memory loss and cognitive impairment become more common – not only as a result of Alzheimer’s, but also due to diseases such as Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease, vascular dementia, or multi-infarct dementia from a stroke or series of strokes. Early diagnosis of these conditions is critical so that the appropriate treatment and care can be administered.

Patients and families should also remember that a complete medical assessment may unearth a treatable, even curable, underlying cause for the patient’s symptoms. So it is important not to assume that confusion, memory loss and other personality changes inevitably signal dementia. Treatable causes consist of:

Drug side effects and interactions

A medication regimen may begin simply with treatment for high blood pressure. Then another drug is introduced for another reason, and soon the pill reminder box is full. A number of drugs can cause confusion, alone or in combination. Some of these include heart medications, steroids, narcotics, drugs to treat incontinence, even antihistamines. Bring a list of all medications, including herbal preparations and supplements, to physician appointments.

Depression

Depression and dementia share many similarities, such as forgetfulness and the inability to focus. Often, symptoms are much improved with counseling, medication and lifestyle adjustments.

Thyroid disease

When the thyroid gland produces too little or an excess of thyroid hormone, memory loss and confusion may result. A simple blood test can reveal a thyroid disorder. Most types of thyroid disease are easily treatable.

Vitamin deficiency

Sometimes elderly people have problems absorbing Vitamin B3, B12 or other vitamins from food. If the deficiency goes untreated, the resulting anemia can lead to symptoms of mental confusion, uncertainty and slowness.

Dehydration

As we grow older, the mechanism in our brain that tells us we are thirsty sends out a weaker signal, so seniors may drink less water than is needed for proper health. Some heart patients may be on a restricted fluid regimen. Still other seniors try to limit fluid intake because of fear of incontinence. Dehydration symptoms, including disorientation and lethargy, can be similar to those of dementia.

Alcohol abuse

Some of the symptoms associated with alcoholism are very similar to those of dementia. Chronic alcohol abuse can cause permanent brain damage, including memory loss and confusion. But if the person gets his or her drinking under control, there is a good chance of improvement.

Head injury

Sometimes a seemingly minor fall or other injury results in a hematoma (blood clot) in the brain. This possibility increases as we grow older. These clots can prevent the brain from functioning normally, and can cause dementia-like symptoms. (Reminder: if a brain injury is suspected, call the doctor right away.)

Cognitive impairment is not a “natural part of growing older.” Geriatricians now recognize that dementia is part of a disease process. If a senior does have Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important to seek the best care to improve quality of life. But remember: the first step is to rule out other, treatable conditions.

Originally posted on our newsletter here.