Memory Loss: You can’t remember where you put the keys. It seems to be happening more often. What does it mean? Memory loss can be a distressing experience. The good news is that it doesn’t automatically mean you have a serious condition like dementia. Read on to find out the #1 cause of memory loss—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You May Have Already Had COVID.

– The #1 Cause of Memory Loss

The #1 cause of memoryloss is simply getting older. Some forgetfulness is normal and doesn’t indicate a serious problem.

“​​Forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging,” says the National Institute on Aging. “As people get older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. As a result, some people may notice that it takes longer to learn new things, they don’t remember information as well as they did, or they lose things like their glasses. These usually are signs of mild forgetfulness, not serious memory problems, like Alzheimer’s disease.”

– Other Causes of Memory Loss

Memory loss can have many causes, including:

Poor sleep

Depression

A bad reaction to medication

Drinking too much alcohol

Head injury

Not eating a healthy diet, leading to a deficiency in B12; a condition called mild cognitive impairment.

In many of these cases, a doctor can treat these conditions, resolving the memory loss.

When Memory Loss Becomes Serious

Memoryloss isn’t always a symptom of dementia, but it can be. Dementia is a serious progressive brain disorder that can affect a person’s cognition, judgment, and ability to live an independent life.

Symptoms of dementia include:

Memory changes that interfere with everyday life

Trouble remembering recently learned information or recent events

Difficulty communicating, such as trouble finding the right words

Getting lost in familiar places

Having trouble following recipes or directions

Becoming confused about time, people, and places

When to See a Doctor

If you notice signs associated with dementia, and they aren’t improving, it’s important to see a doctor, so they can rule out other causes for your symptoms and determine whether it is dementia or another cognitive problem. You may need to be referred to a geriatrician, neurologist, or neuropsychologist.

With early diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to slow the progression of dementia and maintain mental function.