It is important to distinguish normal, age-associated mental impairment from conditions such as dementia which identifies a disease process. Not all memory difficulties or cognitive complaints indicate the presence of dementia, Alzheimer's disease or any mental disorder. Significantly, serious cognitive difficulties should not be dismissed as unavoidable consequences of aging. A helpful guideline is that many people with serious mental impairment do not recognize or will not admit that they have a problem, although it is obvious to those around them. Be certain that your primary physician is aware of all prescription and nonprescription medications that you take.
Older people are less able to tolerate and recover from the use of such substances.
Excess alcohol consumption also causes liver damage, increasing the risk of liver disease, which often leads to dementia. Metabolic disorders - Thyroid dysfunction, anemia , and nutritional deficiencies, are common in older people who have less appetite and less energy to cook and shop. Nutrient malabsorption will have a further negative impact on mental function. Infections - The brain is susceptible to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Other more common pathogens are also known to cross the blood brain barrier and cause cerebral infection.