Memory disorders

Memory disorders are progressive neurological diseases that impair memory, thinking, functional ability, and behavior. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form, accounting for about 70 percent of memory disorders. In Finland, an estimated 200,000 people have received a memory disorder diagnosis, and about 14,500 new cases are identified each year. The disease becomes much more common as the population ages.

An early symptom is often memory difficulty, especially a reduced ability to remember new things. As the disease progresses, orientation, reasoning ability, language use, and coping with everyday activities become more difficult. Behavioral changes such as restlessness, depression, and apathy are common. In Lewy body disease, visual hallucinations and fluctuating cognitive symptoms are typical.

The cause of Alzheimer's disease is amyloid plaques and tau protein accumulations in the brain. Risk factors include age, hereditary factors, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, and low cognitive activity. Hearing loss, social isolation, and depression have been identified as risk factors, and addressing them may delay the onset of the disease.

Diagnosis is based on a comprehensive memory assessment: neuropsychological testing measures cognitive abilities, brain MRI rules out other causes, and cerebrospinal fluid testing or PET imaging can confirm the diagnosis. A neurologist or geriatrician is responsible for the memory assessment.

Medication does not cure memory disorders, but acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (such as donepezil) and memantine can slow symptom progression and improve quality of life. Non-pharmacological methods are primarily used to treat behavioral problems. Memory rehabilitation and cognitive exercises support functional ability in the early stages of the disease.

A good quality of life for a person with a memory disorder requires multidisciplinary support: guidance from a memory nurse, support services for informal caregivers, and day activities. Physical activity has been shown to slow the decline in functional ability. When memory symptoms appear, it is advisable to seek a memory assessment without delay, as an early diagnosis offers the best opportunities to start treatment and support.