FAQs
Cognitive health refers to how well you can think, learn new things, and remember information. These abilities are essential for managing daily tasks. It’s an important part of your overall brain health.1
What are the Common Signs of Cognitive Changes?
Some changes are a normal part of aging, but if they interfere with daily life, they may need attention. Common symptoms include:2
- Frequently forgetting names, dates, or appointments
- Repeating questions or stories
- Trouble following conversations or instructions
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty making decisions or solving problems
- Confusion about time or place
- Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
What Conditions Can Affect Cognitive Health (Other Than Dementia)?
Memory problems aren’t always caused by dementia or aging. They can result from other health conditions or life events—and many of these causes are treatable. Issues like depression, medication side effects, nutrient deficiencies, or high stress can affect memory but often improve with proper care. Identifying the cause is important so you and your doctor can create an appropriate treatment plan. If memory problems last more than a few weeks, talk to your doctor and schedule regular follow-ups every 6 to 12 months.2Â
Possible Causes of Memory Problems Include:
- Head injuries (e.g., concussion)
- Brain conditions like blood clots, tumors, or infections
- Thyroid, kidney, or liver disorders
- Medication side effects
- Depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues
- Alcohol or drug misuse
- Poor sleep
- Vitamin deficiencies such as B12
- Poor nutrition
- Major life stress or trauma such as retirement, grief, etc.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a not a single disease, but a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Diseases grouped under the general term “dementia” are caused by abnormal brain changes. Dementia symptoms trigger a decline in thinking skills, also known as cognitive abilities, severe enough to impair daily life and independent function. They also affect behavior, feelings and relationships. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia.3
How Can I Plan Ahead If I’m Experiencing Cognitive Changes?
Planning ahead helps you stay in control of your care. Here are a few steps:4
- Make everyday tasks easier
- Find help in your community
- Scan your home for safety
- Prepare for the future including legal, financial, and long-term care
- Strengthen your support system
- Take care of your physical and mental health
What Can I Do To Support my Cognitive Health?
Even small lifestyle changes can support cognitive function:1
- Take care of your physical health
- Managing high blood pressure
- Eat health foods
- Stay physically active
- Keep your mind engaged
- Staying connected with your family, friends, and neighbors through social activities and community programs
- Address physical and mental health problems
- Understand how medicines can affect the brain
When Should I See a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing noticeable memory changes and the following symptoms:2
- Asking the same questions over and over again
- Getting lost in places you used to know well
- Having trouble following recipes or directions
- Becoming more confused about time, people, and places
- Not taking care of yourself — eating poorly, not bathing, or behaving unsafely
They can conduct evaluations to better understand what’s causing the issues. Your doctor may also refer you to a neurologist, a specialist in brain and nervous system disorders for further assessment.
Sources
- National Institute on Aging. Cognitive Health and Older Adults. (nia.nih.gov/health/brain-health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults)
- National Institute on Aging. Memory Problems, Forgetfulness, and Aging (www.nia.nih.gov/health/memory-loss-and-forgetfulness/memory-problems-forgetfulness-and-aging)
- Alzheimer’s Association. What is Dementia? (https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia)
- National Institute on Aging. Tips for Living Alone With Early-Stage Dementia. (www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-and-dementia/tips-living-alone-early-stage-dementia)
All URLs accessed on September 22, 2025.
