Elderly people believe memory problems are an inevitable part of aging and that nothing can be done about them, according to a new study by the Alzheimer's Association.

Perla Werner of the University of Haifa in Israel said a considerable lag often exists between the first symptoms of memory deterioration and the decision to consult a doctor. Some simply ignore their memory problems or practice remembering things, she said.

Werner said researchers attribute this lag to the difficulty elderly people and their family caregivers have with differentiating memory problems in normal aging from the signs of Alzheimer's.

Although no treatment has been approved yet to prevent or manage mild cognitive impairment, Werner said its timely diagnosis can help delay onset and progression of Alzheimer's.

"Not every individual who has mild cognitive impairment will develop Alzheimer's," said Jennie Ward Robinson, director of medical and scientific affairs at the Alzheimer's Association. "But significant memory problems should be a signal to consult a doctor. Early detection can result in better quality of life, for those with the disease as well as their caregivers."

The study was presented at the 8th International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders in Stockholm, Sweden.

Other sources: International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease