From Normal Forgetfulness to Alzheimer’s: Recognizing Dementia and Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Moments spent gathering with family often become the time when small changes in our loved ones begin to feel noticeable. Some may appear more forgetful, confused during conversations, or have difficulty remembering simple things. These conditions are often considered a natural part of aging. However, in some cases, forgetfulness is not just ordinary forgetfulness, but an early sign of cognitive impairment that needs to be recognized as early as possible.

Family Moments and Awareness of Brain Health

Indonesia is known for its cultural and religious diversity. In community life, family gatherings are highly anticipated moments, especially during major religious holidays and celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr, Chinese New Year, Christmas, Nyepi, Vesak, and other long holidays.

During these occasions, extended families gather, share stories, reminisce about old memories, and strengthen bonds across generations. The togetherness created not only brings warmth but also opens space to pay attention to one another’s well-being.

Amid this atmosphere of togetherness, small changes in parents or elderly family members often become more noticeable. These may include disrupted conversations, confusion, or difficulty following family discussions. Although often considered a natural part of aging, such changes should not be ignored.

In fact, family gatherings can serve as an important reminder to care more about brain health—especially if these signs begin to appear more frequently and gradually affect daily activities and the quality of life of our loved ones.

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that gradually causes a decline in brain function, particularly in memory, thinking, reasoning, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, especially in older adults.

In Alzheimer’s disease, abnormal proteins accumulate in the brain, disrupting communication between nerve cells. Over time, this damage leads to noticeable cognitive decline and affects a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Because it develops slowly, Alzheimer’s is often not recognized in its early stages.

Normal Forgetfulness vs. Alzheimer’s vs. Dementia: What’s the Difference?

Not all forgetfulness indicates a serious medical condition. Understanding the difference between normal forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s, and dementia is important to avoid delays in medical evaluation.

Normal Forgetfulness

• Occasionally forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later
• Does not interfere with daily activities
• Thinking and decision-making abilities remain intact
• Temporary and not progressively worsening

Alzheimer’s

• Progressive and increasingly frequent forgetfulness
• Difficulty remembering recent events
• Trouble finding words or following conversations
• Confusion about time and place
• Memory decline accompanied by impaired thinking abilities

Dementia

• A general term for a group of symptoms involving cognitive decline
• Can be caused by Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disorders of the brain, or other medical conditions
• Memory impairment accompanied by decline in language, thinking, and behavior
• Increasing dependence on others for daily activities

If forgetfulness begins to affect quality of life, social relationships, or independence, medical evaluation is strongly recommended.

Early Signs of Alzheimer’s to Watch For

Early symptoms of Alzheimer’s often appear gradually and are frequently mistaken as part of normal aging. However, this is the stage when early intervention plays a crucial role.

Some early signs of Alzheimer’s include:

•  Easily forgetting recent events
• Frequently repeating the same questions or stories
• Difficulty concentrating or completing simple tasks
• Trouble finding words while speaking
• Getting lost in previously familiar places
• Emotional changes, such as increased anxiety, suspicion, or social withdrawal

Recognizing Alzheimer’s symptoms early opens opportunities for more optimal management and helps maintain quality of life for a longer period.

Risk Factors for Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Several factors can increase the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s, including:

•  Advanced age
• Family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia
• Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease
• Lack of physical and mental activity
• Unbalanced diet
• Chronic sleep disturbances
• Prolonged and high levels of stress

Understanding these risk factors is important so that preventive and management steps can be taken early.

Management of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Currently, Alzheimer’s cannot be completely cured. However, various medical and lifestyle approaches can help:

• Slow disease progression
• Reduce cognitive and behavioral symptoms
• Help patients remain independent longer
• Improve quality of life for both patients and families

Management generally involves a combination of medical evaluation, supportive therapy, lifestyle management, and a holistic approach tailored to individual conditions.

Preventive Steps to Maintain Brain Health

Prevention is essential, especially for individuals with risk factors or those beginning to experience mild cognitive decline. Preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet
• Exercising regularly and staying physically active
• Stimulating the brain through mental and social activities
• Managing stress effectively
• Maintaining good sleep quality
• Undergoing regular health check-ups

A comprehensive and individualized preventive approach is key to maintaining long-term brain health.

Functional Medicine Approach for Brain Health

As part of prevention and management solutions for dementia and Alzheimer’s, Seraphim Medical Center applies a Functional Medicine approach that focuses on addressing the root causes of cognitive dysfunction rather than merely treating symptoms.

This approach involves:

• Comprehensive evaluation of metabolic, inflammatory, and hormonal functions
• Assessment of lifestyle, nutrition, sleep quality, and stress levels
• Development of personalized care programs to support long-term brain health

This holistic approach helps patients maintain cognitive function and quality of life sustainably.

Transcranial Pulse Stimulation (TPS): A Non-Invasive Solution to Support Cognitive Function

As part of its brain health services, Seraphim Medical Center provides Transcranial Pulse Stimulation (TPS), a non-invasive therapy that stimulates specific areas of the brain using low-energy, focused mechanical waves.

TPS is designed to help:

• Support the brain’s neuroplasticity process
• Improve blood flow to brain tissue
• Help maintain connectivity between nerve cells involved in memory, concentration, and thinking abilities

Because it is performed without surgery and is generally well tolerated, TPS becomes a relevant supportive approach for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or as part of a long-term brain health strategy.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Seek medical consultation immediately if:

• Forgetfulness becomes more frequent and worsens
• Significant behavioral changes occur
• Daily activities begin to be disrupted
• Family members notice unusual changes in thinking function

Early evaluation allows for more appropriate and targeted management.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Examination and Management at Seraphim Medical Center

Seraphim Medical Center provides comprehensive examination and management services for Alzheimer’s and dementia, handled by an experienced medical team. Evaluations are conducted thoroughly to help patients and families understand the condition and receive appropriate care approaches.

With the support of Functional Medicine, Transcranial Pulse Stimulation (TPS) technology, and a patient-centered approach, Seraphim Medical Center is committed to supporting sustainable brain health and quality of life.

Medical Reviewer: 

Seraphim Medical Center
Gading Serpong, Tangerang