Memory and Aging: What’s Normal and What's Not?

As we age, its natural for our brains to experience some level of change. Forgetting where we placed the keys or occasionally struggling to recall a name is often a normal part of aging. However, consistent patterns of memory loss or changes in behavior could signal the early stages of cognitive decline. Recognizing these early signs is crucial, as timely intervention can significantly slow progression and improve quality of life.What Are the Early Signs of Cognitive Decline?Early signs of cognitive decline can vary, but some common indicators include:Memory LossFrequently forgetting recent events, appointments, or conversations.Relying heavily on notes or reminders for tasks that were once routine.Difficulty with Problem-Solving or PlanningStruggling to follow familiar recipes or keep track of monthly bills.Trouble concentrating on complex tasks or making decisions.Language ProblemsForgetting simple words or substituting incorrect words.Difficulty participating in conversations or following a story.DisorientationGetting lost in familiar places or forgetting the time, date, or season.Changes in Mood or PersonalityIncreased irritability, anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from social activities.Unexplained changes in behavior or decision-making.What to Do If You Notice These SignsIf you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, its important to act promptly. Cognitive decline can stem from various causes, some of which may be reversible with treatment.Consult a Healthcare Professional. Schedule an appointment with a primary care physician or neurologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend cognitive tests, brain imaging, or bloodwork to determine the cause.Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle. Research shows that certain lifestyle changes can boost brain health and slow cognitive decline: Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain.  Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can promote brain health.  Engage in Mental Stimulation: Activities like puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill can keep the brain sharp.  Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep can exacerbate cognitive problems.Maintain Social Connections. Staying socially active helps reduce stress and keeps the brain engaged. Encourage regular interactions with family and friends or participation in group activities.Monitor and Manage Chronic Conditions. Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol can contribute to cognitive decline. Managing these conditions effectively can protect brain health.How Elderlink Can HelpAt Elderlink, we understand the challenges of navigating cognitive changes in yourself or a loved one. Caregivers provide personalized support designed to promote independence and enhance quality of life. From medication reminders and assistance with daily activities to engaging companionship, services are tailored to meet individual needs.Recognizing and addressing cognitive decline early can make a significant difference. With the right support and interventions, individuals can maintain their dignity, independence and well-being.Contact Elderlink today to learn how we can help your family navigate this journey with confidence and compassion 303-734-0641.

Medicare has been changing yearly and 2026 will be no exception. What is ahead for Medicare this fall and why?Carriers are still feeling the effects of the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed in 2022, but just took full effect in January of 2025. Beginning January 1, 2025, people with Part D plans through traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage, won't pay more than $2,000 over the calendar year in out-of-pocket costs for their prescription medications, the donut hole or coverage gap is eliminated and there is a new payment plan to spread drug costs through the year. Those changes came at a cost to other benefits. The Inflation Reduction Act significantly increased the carriers expenses and in response benefit cuts occurred for 2025 and will continue for 2026. Carriers had to absorb the steep cost increase for the mandatory prescription drug plan changes by balancing the budget, which included increases in beneficiaries copays, deductibles added to plans, the plan maximum out of pocket increased, non-medical benefits were reduced, a prescription drug deductible was added, and prescriptions were re-tiered or eliminated from the list of covered drugs. 2026 will see further adjustments as the carriers remove most benefits deemed non-medical. Seniors who have grown accustomed to benefits such as an over-the-counter allowance or food subsidy may see those benefits sharply reduced or eliminated this fall. Plans must be submitted to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for approval in early spring to be ready for the enrollment period in fall to be active for the following calendar year, so carriers have had little time to study the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on overall costs. Insurance moves slowly. The changes we are feeling in 2025 are the result of a bill passed in 2022 and will continue to affect plans in 2026. This fall will feel like a continuation of the benefit cuts seniors faced in the fall of 2024 as carriers work to balance the budget while considering the increased prescription costs and trying to maintain the plan benefits seniors rely on. For more information visit: aismedicareandmore.com Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jolynn Allen with AIS Medicare & More.  Jolynn is the owner of AIS Medicare & More and may be reached at:  719-404-3202

In Colorado, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a Medicaid-funded program designed to assist individuals with disabilities or elderly individuals who need help with daily activities. These services enable individuals to live independently in their own homes rather than in institutional settings. IHSS provides support with tasks like personal care, housekeeping, meal preparation, and medication management.Eligible participants must meet specific criteria, including being a Colorado resident, requiring assistance due to a disability, and meeting income and resource limits. Services are tailored to each individual's needs and are delivered by trained caregivers, who may be family members or professional aides.IHSS is an essential resource for people with disabilities or the elderly, enhancing their quality of life by promoting independence while providing necessary care. It also alleviates the financial burden of long-term institutional care, offering a more cost-effective and personalized solution for those in need. Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Amazing Care Home Health Services. For more information they may be reached at 303-755-3170.