Memory failures or slippages may occur at any age. If the memory failures you are experiencing interfere with your daily life, then it is important to have your memory assessed in order to determine the cause. Early detection and diagnosis is very important if you are to obtain maximum benefit from existing treatments.

The likelihood of Alzheimer Disease or other diseases that negatively impact memory occurring at your age would be rare. There may be psychological factors contributing to increased forgetfulness, such as anxiety or depression. If this were the case, then once these conditions are properly treated, memory functioning should return to normal. Keep in mind that if your forgetfulness is a continuing concern, then you may want to have your memory assessed periodically to monitor whether or not memory changes are in fact occurring.

If you have noticed significant changes in your father's memory and other thinking abilities, then it is possible that he is suffering from a dementia such as Alzheimer Disease. In order to determine whether these changes are a result of an underlying neurological condition or disease, it is quite important that your father undergo a comprehensive medical examination, including memory and cognitive assessment.

Everyone experiences some changes in memory as they age. As long as the changes are not due to disease, then such loss is referred to as healthy, age-related memory loss and does not have a hereditary basis. If, however, memory loss is a result of a disease, then there is the possibility that a genetic basis for the disease exists. For example, it is thought that a certain type of Alzheimer Disease (i.e., 'Familial' Autosomal Dominant) is caused by the presence of certain genes that increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer Disease. Note, however, that the vast majority of individuals who develop Alzheimer Disease are diagnosed with 'Sporadic' Alzheimer Disease which means that family history was not likely related to onset of disease.

There are several herbs and nutritional supplements available to consumers that claim to enhance memory. New research shows that some supplements may optimize memory and cognitive abilities. Please check with your physician or pharmacist before adding any new supplements to your diet.

Some changes in certain aspects of memory are age-related and, to varying degrees, do affect everyone. These changes typically begin during middle age. For the purpose of minimizing any negative changes in memory, it may be helpful to actively use your memory and thinking abilities rather than engaging in passive activities (i.e., playing bridge instead of watching television); participate in regular physical exercise; and remain socially active.