Almost everyone has moments of forgetfulness: walking into a room and forgetting why, or not being able to think of an actor's name. As we age, these moments may happen more often, and it can be frightening to wonder whether they mean something more serious.
Most of the time, they do not. But some memory changes are worth checking, and finding the cause early can make a real difference.
Normal age-related changes
These are common and usually not a cause for concern:
- Occasionally misplacing things, such as keys or glasses, and finding them later.
- Forgetting a name or word, then remembering it later.
- Needing a bit more time to learn new things.
- Missing a monthly payment once in a while.
- Forgetting which day it is and figuring it out later.
Changes worth discussing with a doctor
According to the National Institute on Aging, signs that may point to a more serious problem include:
- Asking the same questions over and over.
- Getting lost in places you know well.
- Having trouble following directions or a recipe you have used for years.
- Becoming confused about time, people and places.
- Having increasing trouble managing money and paying bills.
- Withdrawing from hobbies or social activities because of memory problems.
- Changes in mood or personality that friends and family notice.
If you notice these changes in yourself or a loved one, make an appointment with a doctor.
Many causes are treatable
Memory problems are not always caused by dementia. Other causes include:
- Side effects of medicines, or interactions between them.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Thyroid problems.
- Depression, anxiety or grief.
- Sleep problems, including sleep apnea.
- Hearing or vision loss, which make it harder to take in information.
- Alcohol use.
- Infections, dehydration or other illnesses, which can cause sudden confusion.
What the doctor may do
A visit may include:
- Questions about your symptoms, health history and medicines.
- Short tests of memory, attention and problem-solving.
- A physical exam and blood tests to check for treatable causes.
- Possibly a referral to a specialist, such as a neurologist or geriatrician, for further testing.
Medicare's yearly wellness visit includes a check of memory and thinking. Medicare also covers a separate visit to assess memory and thinking in depth and create a care plan if your doctor finds signs of a problem. See your Medicare annual wellness visit.
Why early evaluation matters
- If the cause is treatable, treatment may improve memory.
- If it is mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's disease, you can plan ahead, take part in decisions about your care and learn about treatment options. Some newer treatments are approved only for early stages.
- You can put legal and financial plans in place while you are able to make your wishes known.
How to prepare for the appointment
- Write down specific examples of what you have noticed and when it started.
- Bring a list of all your medicines and supplements.
- Bring a family member or friend who knows you well.
- Ask what tests are being done and what happens next.
Keep your brain healthy
Whatever the cause, healthy habits support brain health. Read everyday habits linked to brain health.
