Memory problems may be short-term or persistent
Forgetfulness is difficulty remembering things like recent conversations, appointments or everyday tasks. Memory loss, however, means ongoing difficulty recalling information that used to be easy to remember.
Forgetfulness can happen at any age and is often short-term, while memory loss can affect short-term memory (recent events) and/or long-term memory (older memories).
When memory problems are persistent or getting worse, they can be a sign of cognitive decline or dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Individuals with memory problems may:
- forget recent events or conversations
- get lost in familiar places or become confused on familiar routes
- have difficulty learning new information (eg new devices or instructions)
- lose items more often than usual
- miss appointments or important events
- repeat the same questions or stories.
Many conditions can affect memory independently of Parkinson’s disease. Common causes include:
- alcohol or other substances
- brain injury
- depression
- medication side effects
- mild cognitive impairment
- poor sleep and sleep disorders
- stress or anxiety
- vitamin deficiencies
- dementias, including: