Various conditions can cause short-term or long-term memory loss and affect thinking or behavior.
It can be difficult to know what to do if you’ve noticed changes in yourself or a family member or friend — particularly changes related to memory loss, thinking or behavior. It may just be normal forgetfulness, or it may be something more serious.
It’s natural to feel uncertain about voicing your worries because that can make them seem more “real.” However, these are significant health concerns, and it’s important to take action to figure out what’s going on.
Assess the situation
• What changes in memory, thinking or behavior do you notice?
What have you noticed that’s out of the ordinary and causing concern?
• What else is going on?
Various conditions can cause short-term or long-term memory loss and affect thinking or behavior. Are there any health or lifestyle issues that could be a factor? These may include family stressors or medical problems like diabetes or depression.
• Has anyone else noticed changes?
Has a family member or friend expressed concerns? What did he or she notice?
• Are any of these changes a sign or symptom of Alzheimer’s or another dementia?
View the 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s to check if they’re on the list.
To learn how to start a conversation and resources that are available, fro the Alzheimer’s Association, CLICK HERE.
