Causes of Memory Loss in Elderly

The topic of memory loss in the elderly frequently leads to speculation about the source. Memory loss associated with the aging process normally begins with an awareness of being forgetful and progresses gradually. The alterations in memory develop as a consequence of diminishing nerve cell activity in the brain. Memory problems can remain mild with no change in the ability to manage daily living functions. Occasionally, memory loss worsens as a result of diseases, injuries, conditions or medications -- and requires intervention with therapy and medications.

Vascular Disorders

• Vascular disorders, such as atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis and coronary artery disease, can diminish the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain, causing nerve cell damage and memory loss. When memory loss disrupts normal daily activities, it is referred to as dementia. It may be a consequence of diseases and conditions that alter the blood vessels and nerves in the brain, such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea or adult hydrocephalus. Symptoms of dementia include memory loss, diminished mobility and thought processing, short attention span and insufficient daily living skills.

Medications

• Some medications have side effects that alter memory and cause confusion, forgetfulness and difficulty learning. Other drugs can cause interactions with your medication regimen and result in symptoms that resemble dementia. Drugs which can alter memory include pain medications, sedatives, statins, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Not everyone is affected by medication side effects. Consumption of alcohol with medications can increase side effects, interactions and adverse reactions and worsen memory loss.

Vitamin Deficiency

• Vitamin B12 deficiency, prevalent in the elderly, can result in problems with memory. Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cell formation and to maintain nerves. This deficiency occurs as a result of poor dietary intake of vitamin B12 and poor absorption in the small intestine. Some elderly people take a large number of medications, called polypharmacy, which may interfere with the production of intrinsic factor in the stomach, a protein necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12.

Additional Causes

• Memory loss can develop with advancing stages of AIDS and HIV, caused by inflammation of the brain or encephalitis. Depression, stress, anxiety and mental disorders can cause confusion and forgetfulness, but testing for neurological and psychological disorders can eliminate those conditions as a source. Head injuries from falls, which are common in the elderly, can result in memory problems. Consult with your physician, even with a minor fall, if memory becomes a problem.

Mild Cognitive Impairment

• Another common disorder in the elderly, referred to as mild cognitive impairment, has the primary symptoms of mild memory loss. Those with the disorder continue to function well with daily activities, require a little extra time to recall memories and maintain the ability to learn new skills. Problems with serious memory loss or development of dementia are not associated with mild cognitive impairment.