Everyone forgets things from time to time. You may forget someone’s name, misplace your keys, or walk into a room and forget why you went there. Occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of life and aging.
However, memory changes that become frequent, worsen over time, or begin interfering with everyday activities may deserve closer attention.
Memory problems can have many possible causes, and experiencing memory loss does not automatically mean that someone has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. A healthcare professional can help determine what may be contributing to the changes and whether further evaluation is appropriate.
What Is Considered Normal Forgetfulness?
Occasional forgetfulness is common. For example, you might:
- Occasionally forget someone’s name but remember it later
- Misplace your keys or phone from time to time
- Forget an appointment and remember it later
- Sometimes struggle to find the right word
- Forget a date but recall it later
These experiences do not necessarily indicate a serious memory disorder.
The more important question is whether memory problems are becoming persistent, noticeable, or disruptive to daily life.
Signs That Memory Loss May Need Medical Attention
Consider speaking with a healthcare professional if you or someone close to you begins experiencing:
Increasing forgetfulness
Forgetting recent conversations, appointments, events, or information more frequently may be a reason to seek an evaluation.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Memory or thinking problems that make everyday activities increasingly difficult should not simply be dismissed as normal aging.
Repeatedly asking the same questions
Frequently repeating questions or conversations because the information is not being remembered may warrant further assessment.
Difficulty finding words or following conversations
Changes in communication, reasoning, judgment, or understanding can sometimes accompany memory problems.
Changes in judgment or decision-making
Noticeable changes in the ability to make decisions, manage responsibilities, or handle familiar situations may be important to discuss with a doctor.
Getting confused about time or place
Regularly becoming confused about dates, locations, or familiar surroundings can be a warning sign that further evaluation may be appropriate.
What Can Cause Memory Problems?
Memory changes can have many possible causes. Some may be related to neurological conditions, while others may have different underlying causes.
A healthcare professional may consider factors such as:
- Normal aging
- Medication effects
- Sleep problems
- Stress and other mental health concerns
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Certain medical conditions
- Mild cognitive impairment
- Dementia and other neurological disorders
Because there are many possible causes, proper evaluation is important before assuming what is responsible for memory changes.
When Should You See a Neurologist?
If memory problems are becoming persistent, worsening, or affecting everyday life, it may be appropriate to speak with a healthcare professional.
A neurological evaluation may include a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, medications, cognitive function, and other neurological symptoms. Depending on the findings, additional testing may be recommended.
The National Institute on Aging recommends talking with a doctor when you or someone you know has problems remembering recent events or thinking clearly. A doctor may also refer you to a neurologist for further assessment.
Early Evaluation Can Make a Difference
Memory changes should not automatically be assumed to be dementia. At the same time, persistent changes should not be ignored.
Identifying the possible cause can help patients and their families understand what is happening and determine appropriate next steps.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing concerning changes in memory or thinking, consider discussing those changes with a qualified healthcare professional.
Take the Next Step With Shiloh Health
At Shiloh Health, our Neurology services provide professional evaluation and care for neurological concerns. If you are experiencing changes in memory, thinking, or other neurological symptoms, our team can help you understand your concerns and explore appropriate care options.
