By Talayeh M. Hosseini
Your loved one walks into a room and forgets why they were there. They blank on a familiar name mid-conversation. For many older adults, these moments are frustrating but fleeting. But how do you know when forgetfulness is just a normal part of aging, and when it might be something more?
Dr. Michelle Sorweid, a cognitive and memory care specialist and faculty member at the Design Institute for Health and Resilience (DIHR), says that distinction matters more than most people realize. “Early awareness can help people get the right care and support,” she explains. Her research explores how health systems and environments can better support individuals experiencing cognitive changes.
What’s Normal as We Age?
Some memory changes are a natural and expected part of getting older. The key is that they’re mild and don’t get in the way of daily life.
Normal aging might look like:
- Forgetting a name or an appointment, then remembering it later
- Taking a little longer to recall or process information
- Misplacing your keys but retracing your steps to find them
- Relying more on notes, calendars, or reminders
“These changes can be frustrating,” says Dr. Sorweid, “but they’re generally manageable and don’t disrupt everyday life.”
When Should You Be Concerned?
Dementia is not a normal part of aging. It involves a more significant cognitive decline that begins to affect a person’s ability to function day to day.
Warning signs worth paying attention to include:
- Forgetting recently learned information and not recalling it later
- Repeatedly asking the same questions or telling the same stories
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Struggling to follow conversations or find the right words
- Noticeable changes in judgment, decision-making, or mood
“One of the key differences is how much these changes impact a person’s ability to function,” Dr. Sorweid notes. “It’s not just about frequency, it’s about interference.”
A Quick Side-by-Side
| Category | Normal aging | Possible dementia |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | Forgets details but recalls them later | Forgets recently learned info and doesn’t retrieve it |
| Lost items | Misplaces things, retraces steps | Loses items with no ability to retrace steps |
| Daily tasks | Maintains independence | Struggles with routine tasks |
| Repetition | Occasional | Frequent, unaware it’s happening |
When to Seek Support
If memory changes are becoming more frequent or interfering with work, relationships, or daily routines, it’s worth talking to a healthcare professional. Early evaluation can identify potential causes, rule out treatable conditions, and connect you with the right resources.
“Early recognition allows for better planning and access to care,” says Dr. Sorweid.
Supporting Brain Health Long-Term
A diagnosis isn’t the whole story. Everyday habits can play a meaningful role in supporting cognitive health over time:
- Stay physically active — even regular walking makes a difference
- Maintain social connections — isolation is a known risk factor
- Keep learning — new skills and mental challenges matter
- Manage chronic conditions — blood pressure, sleep, and stress all affect brain health
The Bottom Line
Memory lapses happen to everyone. But knowing what’s typical and what’s not puts you in a better position to act early if something does feel off. If you or someone you love is experiencing changes that go beyond the occasional forgotten name, don’t wait. Speak with a healthcare professional and explore your options.
To learn more, listen to the full conversation with Dr. Sorweid on The Scope podcast.