I’m having trouble with memory but passed a test at doctor’s office for dementia. I got 29 out of 30, which means it’s highly unlikely I have dementia. Good to know. I found this post so enlightening and encouraging! I hope it reassures you if it’s only problems with memory. If you recognize symptoms of dementia, see your primary care doctor for references immediately.
Are memory issues the same as dementia?
(AI): No, dementia is not the same as memory loss; dementia is a syndrome that includes memory loss as a primary symptom, along with other cognitive declines that impact daily life. While memory loss can be a normal part of aging, dementia is a more severe condition that significantly interferes with a person’s ability to function independently, such as getting lost in familiar places or having trouble with daily tasks like paying bills.
Dementia vs. memory loss
Memory loss
A broad term that can refer to a range of experiences, from normal age-related forgetfulness to more serious conditions. Symptoms typically do not interfere with daily life.
Dementia
A term for a progressive decline in mental abilities, including memory, thinking, and judgment, severe enough to interfere with daily living.
Key differences
| Feature | Memory Loss | Dementia |
| Impact on daily life | Often doesn’t interfere with daily tasks. | Significantly impairs the ability to perform daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or paying bills. |
| Progression | Generally mild and does not worsen significantly over time. | A progressive condition where symptoms gradually worsen over time. |
| Other symptoms | Primarily affects memory. | Includes other cognitive issues like problems with planning, language, judgment, and mood, in addition to memory loss. |
| Examples | Forgetting a name or a phone number. | Repeating the same story, forgetting a spouse’s death, or getting lost in a familiar neighborhood. |
Check out Faith Watkins (LCSW) James’ hopeful, helpful, humorous devotional on mental health issues: Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac
JAMESWATKINS.COM 
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