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When Does Memory Loss Become a Concern?

Mild memory loss or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) has distinct characteristics including:

  • Memory problems that usually do not interfere with the activities of daily living
  • Memory problems that are not easily identified by other people (A person experiencing AD-related mild memory loss often uses reminders and other tactics to offset memory difficulties)
  • Memory decline in mild cognitive impairment is often a slow process that spans several years

Typical Age-Related Changes

Making a bad decision once in a while

Missing a monthly payment

Forgetting which day it is and remembering it later

Sometimes forgetting which word to use

Losing things from time to time

Signs of Alzheimer's/Dementia

Poor judgment and decision-making

Inability to manage a budget

Losing track of the date or the season

Difficulty having a conversation

Misplacing things and being unable
to retrace steps to find them

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