You walk into the kitchen and suddenly can’t remember why you went there.

Normal aging can include occasionally forgetting a person’s name and remembering it later, forgetting where you put something, or needing more time to recall information.

A more concerning pattern involves repeatedly forgetting recently learned information or important events and being unable to remember them later.

Examples include:

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• Asking the same question repeatedly

• Forgetting recent conversations

• Repeatedly missing important appointments

• Forgetting information that was just discussed

• Depending increasingly on other people to remember everyday responsibilities

• Repeatedly getting lost in familiar places

When memory problems begin interfering with independence, they should be evaluated.

Normal Aging vs. Possible DementiaCommon Aging Change

More Concerning Pattern

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Occasionally forgetting a name but remembering later

Frequently forgetting familiar people’s names

Misplacing keys occasionally

Repeatedly putting objects in unusual places

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Forgetting an appointment occasionally

Frequently missing appointments despite reminders

Getting confused in an unfamiliar place

Getting lost in familiar places

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Taking longer to learn new technology

Being unable to use a familiar device they previously handled

Occasionally losing track of a conversation

Frequently being unable to follow or participate in conversations

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Making an occasional financial mistake

Repeatedly making serious or unusual financial decisions

This comparison is not a diagnostic test. Only a qualified healthcare professional can determine whether symptoms are related to dementia or another condition.

What Should You Do If You Notice These Changes?

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Don’t wait until symptoms become severe.

Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if you notice persistent changes in memory, thinking, behavior, language, or everyday abilities.

Before the appointment, it can help to write down:

• When the changes first appeared

• How frequently they happen

• Specific examples

• Any recent medication changes

• Changes in sleep

• Changes in mood

• Any problems with driving, finances, or daily activities

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Bringing a trusted family member or friend can also be helpful because they may have noticed changes that the person experiencing them does not recognize.

A medical evaluation may include a discussion of symptoms, medication review, physical and neurological examination, cognitive testing, and laboratory tests. Depending on the situation, additional testing or brain imaging may be recommended.

Importantly, cognitive symptoms do not automatically mean dementia. A healthcare professional may look for other possible explanations, including medication effects, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, depression, sleep disorders, infections, or other medical conditions.