Forgetfulness can become more common with age, but repeated changes in memory, behaviour or everyday abilities should not always be dismissed as a normal part of growing older. A neurosurgeon has highlighted warning signs that families should watch for and seek medical advice about.
When forgetfulness needs attention
Occasionally forgetting where keys or glasses were kept, taking longer to remember a name or needing more time to learn a new device can occur with normal ageing. More concerning changes include repeatedly asking the same question, forgetting familiar routes, failing to recognise people or struggling with tasks once handled independently.
Families can particularly watch whether the changes are becoming more frequent, progressively worse or affecting independence. Forgetting whether medicines have been taken or suddenly struggling with household finances can also create safety concerns.
Changes beyond memory matter too
According to Dr Tejesh Shavi, Consultant, Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospitals Hebbal, neurological warning signs can include difficulty walking, repeated falls, unusual headaches, seizures, unexplained weakness and problems with speech. Significant personality changes, agitation, apathy or paranoia may also warrant medical assessment.
Some causes may be treatable
Memory changes do not necessarily mean dementia. Vitamin deficiencies, metabolic problems, medication side effects and untreated sleep disorders can contribute to cognitive problems. Certain neurological conditions, including normal pressure hydrocephalus and chronic subdural haematoma, can also cause symptoms resembling dementia.
Early medical evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and, where possible, allow treatment to begin sooner. Families are therefore encouraged not to simply attribute new or worsening changes to age.