Memory loss
Forgetfulness is normal and happens to everyone, especially as we age. However, significant memory loss, like struggling to recall past events or form new memories, is called amnesia. Depending on the cause, amnesia can be temporary (transient amnesia) or long-lasting, and in some cases, it may worsen over time.
Amnesia can involve losing memories (retrograde amnesia) or difficulty forming new ones (anterograde amnesia). While often linked to dementia, amnesia has many causes, some of which are treatable.
Signs and symptoms of memory loss
Simple forgetfulness, such as misplacing your keys or struggling to recall names or event details, is often a normal part of aging. It can also happen when you’re busy, stressed, or overwhelmed.
However, some memory loss is not a normal part of aging and can interfere with daily life. If you notice unusual memory loss or symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor. Signs to watch for include:2 3:
Forgetting the purpose of everyday items
Struggling to complete simple tasks, such as washing dishes or getting dressed
Getting lost or disoriented in familiar places
Frequently forgetting or misusing words in conversation
Repeating phrases or stories within the same conversation
Asking the same question multiple times
Losing track of dates, time, or the passage of time
Showing poor judgment, such as neglecting personal hygiene or grooming
Experiencing noticeable changes in mood or personality
What causes memory loss?
The brain is a complex organ, which is why memory loss can result from various factors unrelated to normal aging. The type of memory loss you experience often depends on which part of the brain is affected and how it’s impacted. Common causes of non-age-related memory loss include:4 5:
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease
Reduced oxygen supply to the brain, often caused by smoking or sleep apnoea
Stroke, which can lead to short-term memory loss
Stress, which can impair focus and memory; emotional trauma-related stress may also result in memory loss
Excessive alcohol consumption or use of illicit drugs
Nutritional deficiencies, particularly deficiencies in vitamins B1 and B12
Head injuries, which can disrupt memory function
Mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder
Medical conditions, including brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), and seizures
Infections that affect the brain, such as HIV, tuberculosis, or syphilis
Major surgeries (including brain surgery), severe illness, or cancer treatments
Certain medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, sleeping pills, and post-surgical drugs, may interfere with memory
Transient Global Amnesia (TGA), is a sudden, temporary memory loss episode with no known cause. It’s not serious and usually resolves within 4–6 hours, but it can last up to 24 hours.
Dementia
Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect brain function, rather than a specific disease. It can impair thinking, memory, behaviour, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing dementia, including:y6:
Age: The likelihood of developing dementia increases with age. Approximately 1 in 30 Australians aged 70–74 have dementia, rising to 1 in 8 for those aged 80–84, and 1 in 3 for people aged 90–94.
Family history: A family history of dementia increases your risk.
Lack of mental or social stimulation: Fewer mentally or socially engaging activities may contribute to a higher risk.
High alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can damage brain function.
Unhealthy diet: Poor nutrition can negatively affect brain health.
Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyles may increase the risk.
Heart disease risk factors: Conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and smoking are linked to both heart disease and dementia.
When should I see a doctor?
If your memory loss is concerning you, or interfering with your daily life, make an appointment to see your doctor. It’s important to determine the cause of your memory loss, so your doctor can determine the best course of treatment.
What else can I do?
Maintaining good health plays a crucial role in preserving memory as you age. Here are some steps that may help:
Engage in regular exercise, especially aerobic activities, at least twice a week
Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels within healthy ranges
Quit smoking
Limit alcohol consumption
Follow a balanced, nutritious diet
Maintain a healthy weight
Manage stress
Get enough sleep—experts recommend 7 to 9 hours per night
Stimulate your brain with activities like puzzles, learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or acquiring a new skill
Stay socially active
Your local MediADVICE pharmacist is here to help you manage your health.
At MediADVICE, we offer Medication Reviews, where one of our pharmacists will review your medications, identify any that may be affecting your memory, and guide you on how to best manage it. We also provide health checks to monitor important risk factors for memory loss, such as blood pressure, blood glucose, waist measurement, cholesterol levels, and lifestyle habits.
Visit your nearest MediADVICE today to book a Medication Review or Health Check and take proactive steps toward better health.
Book a Medication Review or a Health Check at your nearest MediADVICE today.