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Q: Could my mother's forgetfulness be Alzheimer's?

A: Some minor memory changes are a normal part of aging. However, if those changes are more than mild and occasional -- for example, if a family member is getting repetitive, saying things or asking questions over and over again -- a doctor’s evaluation can help determine whether it’s simple age-related forgetfulness or something more serious, such as Alzheimer’s disease, says Claudia H. Kawas, M.D., professor of neurology and of neurobiology and behavior at the University of California, Irvine, and spokesperson for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Warning signs that a loved one needs further evaluation include:

Memory loss Forgets entire experiences, rather than just part of an experience
Difficulty performing familiar tasks Can’t remember how to do everyday tasks, such as cooking a favorite meal
Language problems Difficulty recalling everyday words, such as toothpaste or soap
Disorientation Gets lost in a familiar place or forgets how to get home
Poor judgment Makes reckless decisions or falls prey to fraud
Mood swings Shifts mood quickly from peaceful to angry, without provocation

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, treatment and support are available and may help ease symptoms and improve the quality of life for both Alzheimer’s patients and their families.

This Live Right Live Well Expert Q&A was written by journalist Julie Evans.

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