There are many others, including mild depression and improper medication. If you begin to notice a difference in the older persons memory, there are measures you can take to find out what the cause or causes are without upsetting them or yourself. If there is a noticeable change in memory function, whether gradual or sudden, start keeping a record of each event. This can help you to measure any pattern changes. Try not to confront an older person with what you have noticed right away.
Many people become defensive and can learn how to hide their forgetfulness very well.
As early as possible after noticing any changes look for a good geriatric assessment program in one of the hospitals and arrange for an evaluation. There are many dementia and Alzheimer's programs developing in every state. Your doctor and Area Agency on Aging can help find the right program. Often memory loss is directly related to poor nutri- tion. By monitoring an older person's eating habits and correcting any problems memory loss may quickly disappear.