Let’s Talk About Aging: Aging and Cognition - TheKey

Is It Just Aging or Something More? Here’s What to Know

Dr. Shadi Gholizadeh, our Senior Vice President of Clinical Excellence and Quality, explains that some brain changes are completely normal as we age. Some examples of typical versus atypical changes:

Typical:

• Taking longer to remember a name or word
• Needing more time to learn new technology
• Occasionally misplacing keys or glasses

Atypical:

• Forgetting how to do familiar tasks
• Getting lost or disoriented in well-known places
• Major personality changes
• Trouble managing money or medications

The key difference? Typical aging doesn’t interfere with daily independence, while concerning changes do.

For families navigating these questions: You’re not alone. Our care teams work with families every day to create supportive environments that promote independence while ensuring safety.