What's often normal with age
According to the National Institute on Aging, many older adults notice mild changes, such as taking longer to learn new things or occasionally forgetting where they put something, and these alone are not signs of a serious problem [1]. The NIA gives examples of typical age-related changes [2]: making a bad decision once in a while, missing a monthly payment, or forgetting which day it is and remembering later are typical examples.
What's not a normal part of aging
The NIA lists signs that can point to Alzheimer's disease or another dementia [2], including:
- Asking the same questions over and over
- Getting lost somewhere she knows well
- Trouble following directions or a recipe
- Confusion about time, people, and where she is
- Problems handling money and paying bills
- Losing things often, or putting them in odd spots
- Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
Other causes are possible
Memory problems aren't always dementia. The NIA notes that medication side effects, low vitamin B12, thyroid problems, depression, and other treatable conditions can cause memory problems too [1]. That's why a doctor's evaluation matters, and why it's worth doing soon.
What to do
- Make an appointment with Mom's primary care doctor and bring notes on what you've noticed, with examples and dates.
- Go with her if she'll let you. Ask to be added to her medical privacy release.
- Think safety first: driving, the stove, medications, and wandering.
- Learn about memory care even if you don't need it yet. Our memory care guide explains Florida's options and its new license.