It’s a question that weighs heavily on the minds of many adult children: Is Mom just getting older, or is something more serious happening? Understanding the difference between normal aging and early signs of dementia can help families act sooner, avoid crisis decisions, and make better long-term care choices.

Memory Lapses Are Normal—To a Point

Occasional forgetfulness is a common part of getting older. Misplacing the TV remote or forgetting someone’s name for a moment doesn’t automatically mean there’s a serious problem. Typical age-related changes might include taking longer to recall a word, occasionally losing things, or sometimes forgetting an appointment but remembering it later.

The key difference is consistency and impact. In normal aging, these lapses don’t interfere much with daily life. But with dementia, the changes tend to be persistent, progressive, and disruptive.

Red Flags That Suggest It’s More Than Aging

There are some warning signs that may indicate dementia rather than standard memory loss. Here are a few examples:

• Repeating the same questions or stories within short periods

• Getting lost in familiar places

• Difficulty following instructions, recipes, or basic conversations

• Trouble with numbers or managing finances

• Changes in personality, mood, or behavior

• Withdrawing from social activities or favorite hobbies

• Struggling with time and place orientation, like confusing day and night

If these signs become frequent and interfere with independence or safety, it may be time for a medical evaluation.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early diagnosis can give families time to plan and make informed decisions. It can also open up access to medications and therapies that may slow progression. More importantly, recognizing dementia early allows for better placement into communities that are specifically trained to handle memory care needs.

Families often delay seeking help out of fear or denial. But acting early usually leads to better outcomes for both the senior and their loved ones.

What to Do if You’re Concerned

Start with a conversation. Express your observations in a calm, nonjudgmental way. If possible, attend a doctor’s appointment with your loved one and bring specific examples of the behavior you’ve seen.

You don’t have to go through this alone. As a senior living advisor, I’ve helped many families navigate this uncertain and emotional process. Understanding what’s normal and what’s not is the first step toward finding the right support and care.

Written by Jennifer Carter, author of The Senior Living Advisor Business Blueprint and founder of Star Light Senior Advisors. For guidance on choosing the right level of care or to learn more about my consulting services, visit www.starlightsenioradvisors.com or email me directly at info@starlightsenioradvisors.com.