Real-life example

We talked about the appointment yesterday, but this morning she had no memory of it.

Common age-related pattern may look like

Occasionally missing an appointment but remembering later can happen with normal aging.

Warning pattern may look like

Repeatedly forgetting important recent plans, especially when someone else must step in to manage them, is more concerning.

Helpful things to notice

  • Do they remember after being reminded?
  • Has this caused missed appointments or disruptions?
  • Are reminders becoming necessary rather than helpful?
  • Is the pattern increasing over the last few months?
  • Does it happen with important events, not just minor details?

Structured observation

How often have you noticed this recently?
Compared with 6-12 months ago, is this happening more often?
When reminded, can they usually reconnect with what happened?
Is this affecting daily independence or responsibilities?
Does this involve safety, such as getting lost, medication, stove, doors, driving, or financial harm?
Did this change appear suddenly over hours or days?