Forgetfulness: Knowing When to Ask for Help

Many people worry about becoming forgetful. They think forgetfulness is the first sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Over the past few years, scientists have learned a lot about memory and why some kinds of memory problems are serious but others are not.

If you’re concerned that you or someone you know has a serious memory problem, talk with your doctor. He or she may be able to diagnose the problem or refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or geriatric psychiatrist. Healthcare professionals who specialize in Alzheimer’s and other dementias can recommend ways to manage the problem or suggest treatment or services that might help. More information is available from the organizations listed below.

Consider participating in clinical trials or studies. People with Alzheimer’s disease, MCI, or a family history of Alzheimer’s and healthy people with no memory problems and no family history of Alzheimer’s may be able to take part in clinical trials, which may help themselves or future generations.

To find out more about participating in Alzheimer’s and related clinical trials, call the Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center toll-free at 1-800-438-4380 or visit the ADEAR Center website.

You can search for trials at www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/clinical-trials.