Everyone forgets something at some point. When you begin forgetting things and you are older, it can be frightening to think you may have dementia or a condition such as Alzheimer’s disease. Before you start to worry too much, you should learn more about memory loss.
The FDA explains that memory lapses that occur occasionally are usually normal and nothing with which you should concern yourself. Memory problems that are more persistent or that seem to have a bigger impact on your life are not normal, and it is those types of issues that require more attention.
Normal loss
As you age, your memory naturally gets slightly worse. Forgetting an appointment every now and then is not a serious issue as it happens to almost everyone. Losing your car keys is another example of something that is no big deal.
When what you forget is only pieces of information or minor things, then you probably are just experiencing normal memory loss associated with aging. Normal memory loss will not have a major effect on you and should never put you in danger.
Abnormal loss
Memory loss that is worthy of concern is that which leads to serious situations that could put you in danger. It also involves forgetting significant information. For example, forgetting what you talked about when your neighbor visited yesterday happens to people sometimes, but forgetting your neighbor visited at all is more concerning. In addition, suddenly find yourself forgetting how to do things you have done for years is not normal.
You could have an underlying health issue leading to your problems. Forgetting important things does not always mean that you have a disorder such as Alzheimer’s disease. It could be a symptom of another condition or a side effect from the medication you take. Your doctor can help you to figure out what is happening and how to deal with it.
