Source: The Care Guide

Here are some of the most common differences between normal age-related memory loss and the type of memory problems that could signify something more serious.

IT MAY BE NORMAL AGE-RELATED MEMORY LOSS IF YOU... IT COULD BE CAUSE FOR CONCERN IF YOU...

Forget your friend’s birthday Forget what year it is

Can’t remember what you ate for lunch yesterday Can’t remember what you did yesterday

Repeat a story or question to the same person on two successive occasions Repeat a story or question in the same conversation

Forget to add an ingredient in a familiar recipe Have difficulty following a familiar recipe

Forget a name that’s on the tip of your tongue, then remember it later Simply draw a blank

Forget where you parked the car Forget whether you drove or took the bus

Leave your wallet in your other jacket or purse Put your wallet in the fridge or cupboard

Forget an unusual word Forget a simple word

Have difficulty remembering how to use a new cell phone Have difficulty remembering how to use your old home phone.

Forget to buy milk Forget that you already bought milk today

Get lost in an unfamiliar location Become disoriented in your own neighbourhood

Can’t remember the restaurant you went to on a recent vacation Can’t remember having gone on vacation

Misplace your car keys Have increasing difficulty driving or navigating

Worry about your own memory Have your family or friends tell you they’re worried about your memory

DID YOU KNOW…
Alzheimer’s afflicts 1 in 20 Canadians over age 65. The incidence will rise with age.

Age 65 - 74 : 1 in 100

Age 75 - 84 : 1 in 14

Age 86 + : 1 in 4