Longevity is one of the greatest achievements of our modern-day era. Many older clients are leading long and active lives due to medical advances, improved health care and better lifestyle choices. However, with the benefits of longevity also come some risks—including diminished cognitive capacity. In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is increasing age. 15 percent of Americans over the age of 65 have some form of dementia and by the age of 85 that number can grow to as high as 50 percent. Given these statistics, it is essential for advisors to understand the key differences between “normal aging” and cognitive decline because they can be the key to developing and maintaining a multigenerational client pipeline.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is the name we give to the range of symptoms related to memory loss and decline in cognitive skills that affect a person’s ability to function. All too often dementia is written off as “just getting old.” While shifts in cognition can be part of the normal aging process, when the mind declines faster than the body it can lead to diminished capacity. 

Many cases of dementia are due to Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common form of dementia. However, there are other conditions that can contribute, so recognizing the symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis is critical.

How To Tell The Difference Between Aging And Dementia

Occasional memory lapses are not uncommon—and something many experience them when quite young. For example, clients may experience:

• Trying to recall something that is on “the tip of your tongue”

• Calling a family member by the wrong name

• Forgetting where you left your glasses or keys

• Occasionally forgetting an appointment

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