Is My Forgetfulness Normal or Should I Be Concerned?
We’ve all experienced it — walking into a room and forgetting why, or misplacing keys only to find them in the fridge. While these lapses in memory can feel alarming, they are often a normal part of aging. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), occasional forgetfulness is not uncommon and usually doesn’t indicate serious memory problems.¹
Scientifically, mild forgetfulness is linked to changes in the brain’s structure and chemistry. Aging can affect the hippocampus, a region involved in forming and retrieving memories. Neuronal shrinkage and reduced neurotransmitter activity may slow information processing, but these are typical aspects of aging rather than signs of disease.²
However, memory issues that interfere with daily life — like frequently repeating questions, getting lost in familiar places, or struggling with language — can indicate mild cognitive impairment or early dementia.³ In such cases, a medical evaluation is important.
The encouraging news is that the brain retains its ability to adapt throughout life. Studies on neuroplasticity confirm that engaging in cognitive training can improve mental function, even after age 50. A 2017 review in The Lancet concluded that lifestyle interventions, including cognitive stimulation, may delay or slow cognitive decline.⁴
In short, while some forgetfulness is perfectly normal, staying mentally active — through brain training — is strongly recommended to maintain brain health as we age.
Sources:
- National Institute on Aging. (2021). What Is Mild Cognitive Impairment?
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-mild-cognitive-impairment - Harada, C. N., Natelson Love, M. C., & Triebel, K. L. (2013). Normal cognitive aging. Clinics in Geriatric Medicine, 29(4), 737–752. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cger.2013.07.002
- Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs - Livingston, G., et al. (2017). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care. The Lancet, 390(10113), 2673–2734. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(17)31363-6
Keeping Sharp 