This article is general information, not medical advice. If a symptom is new, getting worse or worrying you, talk to a doctor.
Forgetting a name at a party or hunting for your glasses can feel worrying once you pass 60, especially if a parent had dementia. The reassuring news is that most memory slips at this age are a normal part of ageing. Here is how to tell the difference, and what to do if you are unsure.
Normal ageing vs possible warning signs
| Usually normal ageing | Worth checking with a doctor |
|---|---|
| Forgetting a name, then remembering it later | Forgetting the names of close family or friends |
| Misplacing keys or glasses now and then | Putting things in odd places, such as keys in the fridge, and being unable to retrace steps |
| Walking into a room and forgetting why | Getting lost in a familiar place |
| Sometimes searching for the right word | Often losing track of conversations or repeating the same question |
| Missing a monthly payment once | Struggling to manage bills or follow a familiar recipe |
| Forgetting what day it is, then working it out | Losing track of the date, season or year |
| Making a poor decision occasionally | Frequent poor judgement, or changes in personality noticed by others |
This comparison follows the kind of guidance given by the National Institute on Aging. The key question is whether memory changes are affecting your daily life and getting worse over time.
Why memory changes with age
As we age, the brain processes information a little more slowly, and it takes longer to store and pull up new memories. Knowledge, vocabulary and life skills usually stay strong. Memory is also very sensitive to sleep, stress, mood and medication, all of which can change after 60.
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
Between normal ageing and dementia there is a stage called mild cognitive impairment. People with MCI have more memory or thinking problems than is typical for their age, but can still manage daily life independently. MCI does not always lead to dementia. In some people it stays stable or improves, especially when a cause such as depression, a medicine or a deficiency is treated.
Treatable causes of memory problems
- Poor sleep and sleep apnea
- Side effects of medicines, especially sleeping pills and some allergy and bladder medicines
- Low vitamin B12 or an underactive thyroid
- Depression and anxiety
- Hearing loss, which makes it harder to take in information
- Heavy drinking
Our guide to brain fog after 50 covers these in more detail.
What you can do to protect your memory
The 2024 Lancet Commission on dementia estimated that close to half of dementia cases worldwide are linked to risk factors that can be changed. Several of them are things you can act on now:
- Get hearing and eyesight checked and corrected.
- Keep blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar under control.
- Stay physically active and keep a healthy weight.
- Do not smoke, and keep alcohol moderate.
- Stay socially connected and keep learning new things.
- Protect your head from injury.
Simple tricks for everyday forgetfulness
- Keep keys, glasses and phone in one fixed spot.
- Use a calendar and phone reminders for appointments and pills.
- Repeat a new name out loud when you are introduced.
- Do one thing at a time instead of multitasking.
- Write down important things straight away.
When and how to get checked
See your doctor if memory changes are getting worse, affecting daily tasks, or others have mentioned them. Before the appointment, write down examples and when they started, bring a list of all medicines and supplements, and if possible bring someone who knows you well. Your doctor may do a short memory test, blood tests and, sometimes, a referral to a memory clinic. Getting checked early is the best way to find a treatable cause.
Wondering whether supplements are worth trying? Read do memory supplements work? first.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to forget things at 60?
Yes, some forgetfulness is normal, such as taking longer to recall a name or misplacing your keys. It becomes a concern when it affects daily life or gets steadily worse.
What is the difference between forgetfulness and dementia?
With normal forgetfulness you usually remember later and can manage daily life. With dementia, memory and thinking problems get worse over time and interfere with everyday tasks such as managing money or finding your way.
What is mild cognitive impairment?
MCI means memory or thinking problems that are more than expected for your age but do not stop you living independently. It does not always progress to dementia.
Can memory loss be reversed?
When it is caused by something like low B12, thyroid problems, depression, poor sleep or a medicine side effect, memory often improves once the cause is treated.
Is memory loss normal as you age?
Mild changes, such as taking longer to learn new things or recall names, are normal. Memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a normal part of ageing and should be checked.
How can I improve my memory naturally?
Regular exercise, good sleep, social contact, learning new skills, managing blood pressure and correcting hearing loss have the best evidence for protecting memory.
What are the treatment options for memory loss in older age?
It depends on the cause. Treating B12 deficiency, thyroid problems, depression, sleep problems or medicine side effects can improve memory. For dementia, doctors may offer medication, therapies and support.