What Word-Finding Challenges May Indicate in Senior Cognitive Health

According to the Alzheimer's Association, approximately 7.2 million Americans have Alzheimer's. Approximately 79% want to know before they begin experiencing symptoms, while approximately 92% would take medication to stop progression.

A more straightforward approach is to check for any symptoms you're already experiencing. Monitor your occurrences of word-finding problems.

This is normal at any age, but it becomes more common for seniors. While this can be a regular part of aging, it may indicate serious issues.

Senior living in Orland Park, IL, puts you in a safe and welcoming neighborhood. You'll have easy access to natural landscapes and neighborhood events. It's worth sharing widely.

Read on to learn what these word-finding issues indicate in terms of senior cognitive health.

What Are Word-Finding Difficulties?

Word-finding problems, known as TOT, or the 'tip-of-the-tongue' state, are common. It's the phenomenon of going to say a word and feeling like it's on the tip of your tongue, ready to be said. The problem is you can't remember it.

This issue affects anyone, but is commonly one of the first cognitive concerns in seniors. It's not necessarily about losing vocabulary. Seniors often possess larger vocabularies.

It is more akin to searching through a crowded house. The words aren't gone, but it's harder to find them when you want them.

Neural pathways in the brain weaken with age. This is what makes it challenging to retrieve the sounds and spellings of words.

What Word-Finding Challenges Indicate

Struggling to remember words is about more than communication in elderly populations. It can be a sign of serious conditions.

Struggling to remember words is one of the first signs of a stroke. They can evolve into a language disorder called aphasia.

Head trauma or brain tumors can also affect language ability. The left side of the brain is essential for language processing, so damage to this area can make it difficult to find words.

Word-finding problems are one of the most common early dementia signs. It can also indicate the presence of Alzheimer's disease. It could even be the first sign of other neurodegenerative diseases, such as:

Parkinson's
Lewy Body Dementia
Frontotemporal degeneration

When to Get Assessed

Language changes in aging are common. The brain becomes slower, leading to pauses in conversation and occasional issues finding words.

Cognitive decline awareness requires understanding what signs to look out for. It can begin at a low level and then develop.

Mild cognitive impairment typically does not hinder daily tasks or life enjoyment. Signs of cognitive impairment on the level of dementia include:

Consistent word-finding problems
Forgetting names and words
Getting lost in the middle of conversations
Language problems that interfere with daily life
Repetitive questioning

If you have concerns, consider scheduling a professional screening. This screening will include tests focused on picture naming and verbal fluency.

How to Preserve Cognitive Health

One of the most important ways to prevent cognitive decline is to know the risk factors. Once you do that, you can live a lifestyle that enhances the health of your body and mind.

Know the Risks

Risk factors for Alzheimer's include:

Obesity
High blood pressure
Type 2 diabetes
Limited physical or mental activity
Smoking
Depression

Combat these challenges proactively to prevent significant cognitive decline. Get treatment for any conditions you have and quit smoking.

Exercise Your Body and Mind

One of the best ways to fight against word-finding problems is to practice. Start regularly practicing naming the members of your family or the items around you.

Challenge your brain by engaging in activities that promote cognitive growth, such as:

Reading
Writing
Solving puzzles
Public speaking

Exercise your body as well.It keeps your cardiovascular and mental health strong, which prevents cognitive decline.

Maintain Relationships

According to the National Poll of Aging, approximately 33% of seniors feel alone or isolated. Sustain social networks of friends and family. Every time you meet up with them, it gives your brain a new challenge. It also helps prevent loneliness and depression.

Enjoy the activities and events at your senior living community. They can help engage your mind and body. They'll also help you create social connections with friends who understand.

Where to Seek Support

Support from family and friends is crucial for seniors experiencing word-finding issues. They need love and support to prevent feelings of isolation or guilt. You may need to learn how to speak to them differently, but it's an important step.

You can also lean upon professionals for the additional support you need.

Professional Therapy

A specialized speech therapist can help, especially in cases of aphasia. It can help seniors regain their ability to speak.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can be beneficial. It's an important step when mental health conditions, such as depression, are contributing to speech problems.

Senior Living

Word-finding issues can develop into a severe stage of cognitive decline. If cognitive decline progresses, it may be time to start looking into senior living in Orland Park. It's the best way to ensure safety and a full life.

Communication issues are not the sole challenge seniors confront. They may also experience physical dangers without support.

Assisted living in Orland Park allows the most freedom. It offers support for forgotten essentials like medications. This all happens without sacrificing the ability for seniors to use their time the way they want to.

Memory care in Orland Park is focused on seniors with significant cognitive decline. It provides them with constant care to prevent them from wandering or experiencing other dangers. The staff is experienced enough to know how to communicate effectively with them.

Many communities also offer both. This option has advantages as it allows easy switching if a decline occurs.

Find the Best Senior Living in Orland Park

Word-finding issues can point to serious issues such as Alzheimer's or strokes. A healthy lifestyle and a supportive community help.

Discovery Commons Orland Park aims to enhance residents' lives as they age. Our commitment to making our residents the center of attention defines our community. Enjoy upscale communities in a beautiful natural environment.

Our supportive staff includes chefs to prepare daily meals and expert caregivers who are always available. We provide assisted living and memory care in Orland Park, IL. We're ready to adapt to your changing needs.