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Memory lapses can have many causes, and a memory problem alone does not mean someone has Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. Occasional forgetfulness may happen with aging; repeated, worsening changes or problems that disrupt everyday tasks warrant a conversation with a healthcare professional.
When should you worry about memory loss?
Pay attention to the pattern and its effect on daily life. An occasional lapse that a person later recalls is different from repeated problems that make familiar routines difficult. That distinction can help identify when to seek advice, but it cannot diagnose dementia.
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) identifies changes worth discussing with a clinician, including:
- Asking the same questions repeatedly.
- Getting lost in familiar places.
- Having trouble following a familiar recipe or directions.
- Becoming confused about time or place.
- Neglecting personal care or acting unsafely because of memory or thinking problems.
Arrange a medical discussion for noticeable, persistent, worsening, or otherwise concerning changes. Do not wait for a particular number of lapses or try to determine the cause on your own. The NIA’s overview of memory problems and aging explains examples of changes to watch for.
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What can cause memory problems?
Memory changes are a symptom, not a diagnosis. Dementia is one possible explanation, but other health or lifestyle factors can also affect memory and thinking. The NIA lists potential contributors such as medication side effects, depression or anxiety, sleep problems, alcohol or drug misuse, some thyroid, kidney, or liver problems, and low levels of nutrients such as vitamin B12.
Some causes may improve when identified and treated, but that does not mean every memory problem is reversible or that you can tell the cause from symptoms alone. A clinician can consider the person’s overall health and circumstances. Avoid starting a supplement or stopping a prescribed medicine without medical advice.
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How is memory loss evaluated?
An evaluation typically begins with a conversation about the changes and the person’s health. Depending on the symptoms and medical context, a clinician may review medical and medication history, daily function and behavior, and use tests of thinking or memory. Standard medical tests may help investigate possible causes. Mental-health assessment, brain imaging, or other specialized tests may be considered when appropriate.
The exact evaluation varies by person; not everyone needs every test. Ask what a recommended test is intended to assess and what its results can and cannot establish. The NIA guide to how Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed describes parts of the evaluation and the need to consider other explanations.
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How to prepare for a doctor’s appointment
Primary care is a common place to start. Bring concrete information that helps the clinician understand what has changed, when it began, and how it affects everyday activities.
- Write down dated examples of memory, mood, behavior, or functional changes.
- List current and past medical problems and relevant family history.
- Bring a complete list of prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
- Write down questions, such as “What tests will be performed?”, “What does each test involve?”, and “How long will it take to learn the results?”
A notebook or symptom journal can keep these observations in one place; it is an organizational aid, not a treatment or a requirement. If helpful, ask someone who knows the person well to attend and share observations. The Alzheimer’s Association appointment guide covers preparation and possible questions.
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When might a specialist be involved?
A primary-care clinician may handle the initial assessment or recommend a specialist based on the symptoms and findings. Possible referrals include a neurologist, geriatrician, psychiatrist, or psychologist. Which professional is appropriate depends on the person’s situation; a referral does not by itself establish a dementia diagnosis.
Be cautious with products that promise to improve memory
Do not rely on supplements, pills, brain-training games, or similar products marketed to treat memory loss or prevent dementia. The NIA cautions that products making these claims may be unsafe, waste money, or interfere with other treatment. Discuss any product you are considering with a clinician, especially if you take medicines or have other health conditions. The NIA’s memory and aging guidance addresses these claims.
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