There are a lot of different factors that can contribute to memory issues: lack of sleep, life changes, stress, and yes, age. But how do you know what is normal and what could be a reason for concern? MSN.com outlines six key warning signs that warrant a closer look:
An inability to learn new things.
If you find you struggle to learn anything new, it could be concerning, experts say.
“The common thing in our society is you get a new device and you just cannot figure it out,” said Dr. Charles Bernick, a neurologist at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at the Cleveland Clinic.
It’s normal to need some time to get used to a new phone or laptop, but if it’s a totally impossible task, you may want to consider talking to your doctor.
Trouble doing and understanding things that used to come easily.
It could be a worrisome sign if everyday tasks that used to be easy are now challenging.
For example, “for people who [cook], forgetting recipes that they previously have been able to do easily for many years,” Bernick said.
Another big area people may notice abnormal forgetfulness? Finances, according to Bernick.
That could be forgetting to pay bills, paying bills twice, not understanding how finances work or forgetting how to make proper change when paying for items in stores…
Quickly forgetting conversations.
You can’t be expected to remember every single conversation you’ve ever had, and you shouldn’t worry if you forget conversations from time to time. What is cause for concern? Immediately forgetting discussions, according to Dr. Michael Rosenbloom, a neurologist at the UW Medicine Memory and Brain Wellness Center in Washington.
“Normally, when one has a conversation, it is expected that you can at least remember having that conversation ... but, let’s say an hour goes by, the person forgets about having the conversation, that’s certainly concerning,” he said.
“They also should remember by the day’s end, too, so that’s also a red flag for me,” Rosenbloom added.
Getting lost in familiar places.
It’s perfectly normal to get lost from time to time, like when exploring somewhere you haven’t been in decades or visiting a new place. But getting lost in familiar places can sometimes be a sign of abnormal memory loss.
“One really telltale sign might be getting lost in your hometown, just not finding your way,” said Ulrich Mayr, a professor of neuroscience at the University of Oregon.
This could look like getting lost while driving to the grocery store or on your walk home from an appointment. If this happens to you or a loved one, it should cause concern, Mayr said.
Repeating stories often.
It is normal to repeat yourself from time to time, recounting stories or facts to people who have heard them before. But if you’re doing this too often, it could be abnormal.
Specifically, if you are “repeating questions or stories within the same day or sometimes within a few minutes,” it could be a sign of abnormal memory loss, according to Carmen Carrión, a neuropsychologist and an assistant professor of neurology at Yale School of Medicine.
Your loved ones point out that something seems off.
If a loved one tells you they’re worried about your memory, try not to get defensive. Instead, take their concern seriously. What others notice about your memory could actually be more valuable than what you notice, Mayr said…
A loved one is more likely to be able to accurately spot issues like story repetition or day-to-day tasks.
Additionally, if you notice memory loss in a loved one, don’t be afraid to speak up. Your support and concern is important.
You can read the full article here.
We can all be forgetful from time to time. There is a difference between normal, day-to-day memory issues and more significant memory loss. Just as with any aspect of your health, it is important to be aware of the signs to look out for, for yourself and your loved ones, so you can receive the care you need and remain the best version of yourself you can be!