Memory loss isn't always worrisome. But here's when it is, what to do.
But when forgetfulness progresses, becomes frequent or interferes with relationships or daily life, it may be a sign of something more serious.
At the same time, not all memory problems point to dementia, and many issues are preventable, treatable and even reversible. Here's how to recognize memory loss, what causes it and how to manage the problems it creates for yourself or someone you love.
What is memory loss?
Memory loss refers to the inability to remember information or events that should easily be retrievable. Some common symptoms include forgetting recent conversations or events, asking the same questions over and over, difficulty completing familiar tasks, frequently misplacing items, being unable to retrace steps, becoming confused about time or location or having difficulty following a conversation.
'Progressive memory loss extending over time is the key warning sign,' explains Mander. 'If someone starts forgetting entire experiences or things they were once clear about – like the route to a longtime hairdresser – that becomes concerning.' Ditto for if memory loss starts impacting relationships or impeding day-to-day life.
When memory loss progresses to states of dementia, "memory failures become so frequent a person eventually loses the ability to recall recent events or plans completely,' says David Diamond, PhD, a psychologist and neuroscience professor at the University of South Florida.
Noted: 1 in 3 older Americans take aspirin daily. What does it do?
What causes memory loss?
Some of the most common causes of short-term or long-term memory loss include:
What is sleep apnea? The sleep disorder you might have could be why you're sluggish
How is memory loss prevented and treated?
Memory loss treatments vary depending on the underlying cause of the problem. "If the memory loss is due to something reversible, such as poor sleep, medication side effects, a vitamin deficiency or a thyroid disorder, the treatment is pretty straightforward," says Budson.
Sometimes simple dietary or behavioral changes are all that is needed. 'There's no silver bullet,' Mander explains, 'but good sleep, exercise, maintaining a diet high in vitamin B12 and mental stimulation all support brain health.' Even something as common and feared as Alzheimer's disease "is not an inevitable result of advanced age,' adds Diamond. "Strong physical health is associated with reducing your risk and a very low rate of dementia."
And "for the best outcomes," stresses Yassa, "early intervention is key to living longer without cognitive decline."
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