Walking into a room and forgetting why is something everyone experiences. But when forgetfulness becomes frequent, families start to worry: is this just age, or something more?
Normal ageing
- Occasionally forgetting names, then remembering later
- Misplacing keys now and then
- Thinking a little more slowly than before
- Managing daily life independently
Signs that need assessment
- Repeating the same question several times in an hour
- Forgetting recent conversations or appointments regularly
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty with money, cooking or medicines that were once easy
- Personality changes, suspicion or withdrawal
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
MCI is a noticeable decline in memory or thinking that is more than normal ageing but still allows independent daily life. Around 15–20 in 100 people over 65 have MCI. Some progress to dementia, but many stay stable or improve — especially when a treatable cause such as depression, thyroid problems or vitamin B12 deficiency is found.
How neuropsychological testing helps
Standardised tests of memory, attention, language and planning give an objective picture of what is affected. They set a baseline for the future, help doctors diagnose early and guide cognitive retraining.
Protecting your brain
- Learn something new — a language, an instrument or a game
- Walk daily and control blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol
- Stay socially connected
- Treat hearing loss and sleep problems
Frequently asked questions
Is forgetting names a sign of dementia?
Occasionally forgetting a name and recalling it later is normal ageing. Concern grows when memory loss is frequent, worsening and affects daily tasks.
What is mild cognitive impairment?
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a noticeable decline in memory or thinking that is greater than expected for age but does not yet stop independent living.
Which test checks memory problems?
A neuropsychological assessment uses standardised memory and thinking tests to measure changes, track them over time and guide treatment.
Talk to a professional
If this article sounds familiar, you don’t have to work it out alone. Book a confidential session with Dr. Rabya Umman at Vasant Kunj, New Friends Colony or online.
Related services
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for a professional assessment. If you are in crisis, call Tele-MANAS 14416 (free, 24×7).
