Delaying the inevitable
An uncomfortable truth about memory loss is that, evidently, it only worsens as you get older.
“As we age, memory can often be less efficient,” Collinson notes.
In Asia, where countries like Singapore and Japan are fast greying, this represents a looming public health problem. The risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s increases with age, and as such, the social and economic costs of such diseases are significant. Resources need to be allocated in preparation for a large influx of new cases, Collinson says.
Interestingly, cardiovascular problems have also been pinpointed as a cause and promoting factor in diseases that result in memory loss. Collinson lists diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and high cholesterol as promoting memory problems from middle age.
“However, while there are many causes of memory loss, it is also important to note that the presence of memory change with age does not necessarily mean the presence of a disease,” Collinson points out. “That is why screening and assessment are very important.”
While research into slowing or treating Alzheimer’s has tried to approach the condition from novel angles, such as proteins that control immune function, snake venom that breaks down amyloid plaques and nanoparticles that act as antioxidants, unfortunately, there is still no cure for this debilitating cognitive disease. Here, more than ever, prevention is key.
“There is evidence to show that exercise and keeping mentally and socially active are buffers against memory loss,” Collinson says.
“There is much to be said for the positive benefits of a daily walk or swim, family outings or a weekly game of mahjong with friends.”
“I remember things better with you”
The social factor, in particular, is emphasized throughout both movies. At a turning point in Finding Nemo, Marlin is about to give up on his quest to find his son, believing him dead.
Dory pleads with him not to, saying, “I just, I remember things better with you.”
From this poignant scene, it is clear that the “familial, interdependent and supportive” relationship she has developed with Marlin has helped her ability to remember, writes Spiers. Previous research supports this theory: a 2011 study demonstrated the critical role of family and caregivers in contributing to the well-being of individuals with traumatic brain injuries.
Finding Nemo has previously been praised by scientists for its neuropsychologically accurate portrayal of memory loss. The difficulties Dory faces in learning and retaining any new information, recalling names, and knowing where she is going or why, are shared by humans with amnesic syndromes. Furthermore, the frustration of the fish that love and care for her also accurately reflects the feelings of caretakers and people who live with amnesic patients.
Nevertheless, not once throughout both movies does Dory allow these significant challenges to dampen her cheerful and positive outlook on life. Spiers believes that this very quality of hers actually helps her cope with her memory loss.
Now that, is a lesson for all of us, not just the memory-impaired ones—as long as we remember to “Just keep swimmin’…”
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Copyright: Asian Scientist Magazine; Photo: Teddy Hartanto/Flickr/CC.
Disclaimer: This article does not necessarily reflect the views of AsianScientist or its staff.
