Letter: Loss of memory
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: Those experiencing memory loss should not be misled into believing that it is part of the "normal process of ageing" ("I've lost my keys... I'm going mad", Review 4 August).
Our mental processes may slow down as we get older. This does not account for serious memory loss experienced by those who have dementia - a disease which now affects more than 700,000 people in the UK, 17,000 of whom are under 65.
The claim that "normal age-associated memory impairment" can be distinguished from dementia because those with dementia will often become "irritable, withdrawn, rude, scruffy, idle or suspicious" is complete nonsense.
Some of these characteristics may be exhibited as dementia develops, but by far the most common early symptom is forgetfulness - too often dismissed as a natural part of the ageing process.
To encourage a misunderstanding of memory problems could prevent some people from seeking early diagnosis and, with the advent of the first anti-dementia treatments, from receiving drugs which may help them cope with the disease.
REBECCA GRAY
Alzheimer's Disease Society
London SW1
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments