Expert explains why dementia is never primary cause of youthful memory issues

Forgetfulness is an increasingly common condition in a world that promotes constant multitasking. Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, a neurologist trained at AIIMS, New Delhi, addressed these concerns in an Instagram video shared on March 21.

She highlighted a case involving a 24-year-old man who feared early dementia because he frequently forgot his keys.

Dr Sehrawat clarified, “Dementia is never the first cause of memory issues in young people.” This progressive syndrome is extremely rare in people in their 20s, 30s, or 40s.

Likely causes of forgetfulness in youth

Memory functions as a three-step process involving registration, retention, and finally, recall. If information is not registered mindfully through audio or visual mediums, it cannot be stored. Dr Sehrawat identified four primary reasons for these lapses:

• Lack of concentration: Failing to do tasks mindfully prevents the initial registration of data.
• Trying to multitask: Thinking of multiple things at once leads to poor information retention.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Low levels of this essential nutrient can impair cognitive performance.
• Hypothyroidism: Hormonal imbalances often result in "brain fog" and memory difficulties.

How to counter forgetfulness

To improve cognitive health, the neurologist suggested focusing more and multitasking less. Stress often blocks the ability to register information, making it impossible to recall later. Dr Sehrawat recommended several practical lifestyle changes:

• Focus more and multitask less.
• Meditate to improve mindfulness.
• Exercise every day to increase the blood supply to the brain.
• Get your thyroid and vitamin B12 levels checked by a medical professional.

By addressing these physical and mental factors, young individuals can often resolve memory issues without the fear of permanent decline.

"Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as medical advice. Readers should always consult a qualified doctor regarding any questions about their health or a medical condition."