Is It Just Aging—Or the First Signs of Memory Loss?
The holidays often bring families back together—sometimes for the first time in months. For adult children, this time can also bring a new awareness: is Mom repeating herself more often? Did Dad forget a relative’s name? Is that just aging—or could it be something more?
It’s a delicate question—and an important one. Understanding the difference between normal aging and early signs of memory loss can help families take action sooner, while support options are still flexible and proactive.
Forgetfulness vs. Early-Stage Memory Loss
It’s normal for older adults to occasionally misplace keys or struggle to recall a word. But when forgetfulness starts to interfere with daily life, it may be worth paying closer attention.
Some early signs of cognitive decline include:
- Repeating the same stories or questions within short periods of time
- Difficulty following conversations or instructions
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- Withdrawing from hobbies or social events
- Mismanaging bills or finances
- Mood changes, increased anxiety, or confusion in new situations
Many families dismiss these early signs, especially when they’re subtle. But noticing patterns and speaking up can be the first step toward getting help.
Early Support Matters
A diagnosis of dementia can feel overwhelming—but early intervention can make a meaningful difference. At Institute on Aging, our Compania program is built to support families from the very beginning of a memory loss journey.
Compania includes:
- In-home dementia care from trained professionals who understand the nuance of early-stage support
- Caregiver coaching to help family members understand dementia related behaviors or expressions and manage care with confidence
- Daily enrichment programs at our Enrichment Center in the Presidio, where individuals with dementia can connect, engage, and thrive in a structured and supportive environment
- Lifestyle Companions & Personal Assistants who support aging adults through meaningful engagement and daily routines, while also helping relieve caregiver burden by assisting with errands, coordination, and day-to-day logistics.
Starting small—whether with a few hours of in-home support or a weekly visit to the Enrichment Center—can help ease anxiety and build comfort over time.
Try a Free Cognitive Test
If you’re unsure whether a loved one’s symptoms warrant further evaluation, IOA offers a collection of free cognitive tests that you can use at home. These assessments are simple and non-diagnostic, but they can help identify whether a more formal evaluation may be helpful.
You’re Not Alone
Watching a parent or loved one change can be heartbreaking—but you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our dementia care team is here to offer guidance, reassurance, and practical steps forward.
“If you’re feeling worried about an aging loved one’s memory, I recommend that you share your concern with those close to you and schedule an appointment with their doctor. While there’s no cure yet, there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can slow down cognitive decline. This journey can feel really scary, but I promise you are not on it alone.”
– Alexandra Kaplan, MA (Gerontology), Institute on Aging’s Compania Lead Caregiver Coach
Want to talk to someone about early-stage dementia care?
Contact the Compania team to explore in-home support, coaching, or day programs that meet your family where you are.
