Memory changes vs dementia: what’s normal (and what to check)
Topic: Brain, Mood & Memory
Reading time: 2 min
Most people notice some memory changes with age—like slower recall or needing more reminders. That can be normal. The key question is whether it’s affecting daily life.
Often normal
- Walking into a room and forgetting why (then remembering later)
- Misplacing items occasionally
- Taking longer to learn new technology
- Needing lists and calendars more than you used to
Worth discussing with a clinician
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Trouble managing money, medications, or basic routines
- Repeatedly asking the same questions
- Noticeable changes in judgment, personality, or safety
Important: Many treatable issues can mimic memory problems—sleep apnea, depression, medication side effects, thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies, hearing loss, and more.
Good first steps
- Ask a trusted person if they’ve noticed changes (sometimes they see patterns we miss).
- Review medications and supplements for cognitive side effects.
- Protect sleep and treat hearing/vision problems.
- Keep moving: exercise supports brain health.
What to ask your clinician
- “Could any medications be affecting memory or attention?”
- “Should I be screened for sleep apnea, depression, or vitamin deficiencies?”
- “Would cognitive testing help establish a baseline?”
If you’re worried, bringing notes helps. Use our Doctor Visit Checklist to organize symptoms and questions.
Ask your clinician (starter questions)
- “What’s the most likely explanation in my case?”
- “What serious causes are we ruling out?”
- “Could any medications or supplements contribute?”
- “What’s the simplest next step?”
- “What should make me call you sooner or seek urgent care?”
If you want to prepare for a visit, try the Doctor Visit Checklist. For general support, browse Topics.