Is it normal aging or something more?
Everyone forgets things. As we get older, it can take longer to recall a name, and we may walk into a room and forget why. That is normal.
Dementia is different. It is not a normal part of aging. It is when memory and thinking problems get bad enough to get in the way of daily life, like paying bills, cooking, or getting around town.
10 warning signs to watch for
The Alzheimer's Association lists 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's. Here they are in plain words:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life. Forgetting things they just learned, asking the same question again and again, or leaning on notes for things they used to remember.
- Trouble planning or solving problems. A hard time following a recipe they have made for years or keeping track of monthly bills.
- Trouble with familiar tasks. Getting lost driving to a place they know well, like the grocery store or church.
- Confusion about time or place. Losing track of dates or seasons, or forgetting where they are and how they got there.
- Trouble with vision and space. Problems judging distance, reading, or keeping their balance.
- New problems with words. Stopping in the middle of a sentence, losing the thread of a conversation, or calling things by the wrong name.
- Losing things and not being able to retrace steps. Putting keys in the fridge, then accusing someone of taking them.
- Poor judgment. Giving large sums to phone scammers, or not bathing or dressing for the weather.
- Pulling away from people and hobbies. Skipping church, the card group, or family dinners they used to love.
- Mood and personality changes. Becoming confused, suspicious, fearful, sad, or easily upset, especially outside their routine.
Normal aging vs. possible dementia
| Normal aging | Possible dementia |
|---|---|
| Forgets a name, then remembers it later | Forgets recent events and asks the same thing over and over |
| Makes a mistake on a bill now and then | Can no longer manage bills or a checkbook |
| Loses track of the day, then figures it out | Loses track of the season or year |
| Sometimes can't find the right word | Struggles to follow or join a conversation |
| Misplaces glasses, then retraces steps to find them | Puts things in odd places and can't retrace steps |
Other things can cause memory problems
Not every memory problem is dementia. Some causes can be treated. These include medicine side effects, low vitamin B12, thyroid problems, depression, poor sleep, hearing loss, and infections. In older adults, a urinary tract infection can cause sudden confusion.
Sudden confusion that comes on over hours or days is different from slow memory loss. Call the doctor right away if that happens, or call 911 if it seems like an emergency.
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What to do next in Fresno
Start with the primary care doctor. Book a visit and say you want to talk about memory. Write down what you have seen, with examples and dates. Bring a list of every medicine and supplement. If you can, go with your parent so you can share what you have noticed.
Ask about a specialist evaluation. The UCSF Fresno Alzheimer & Memory Center at 550 E. Shaw Ave, Suite 105, in Fresno evaluates memory problems and diagnoses dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It is one of California's state-supported Alzheimer's disease centers. The evaluation includes a family interview, medical and brain exams, memory and thinking tests, and a family meeting to go over results and next steps. Patients can refer themselves, or be referred by family or a doctor. HMO patients need approval from their primary care doctor first. Phone: (559) 227-4167.
Call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 if you have questions or just need to talk to someone who understands. It is free.
Getting a diagnosis early matters. It lets your parent take part in plans while they can, rule out other causes, look at treatment options with the doctor, and get legal and money matters in order.
How to talk to your mom or dad
This talk is hard. Many parents get scared or defensive. A few things help:
- Pick a calm time. Morning is often better than evening. Keep it private and unhurried.
- Lead with care, not a list of mistakes. "I've noticed you seem stressed lately, and I want to help" goes over better than "You keep forgetting things."
- Frame the doctor visit as a checkup. Say you want to rule out simple fixes like vitamins, thyroid, or a medicine that needs changing. That is true, and it is less scary.
- Bring in someone they trust. Their doctor, a pastor, or a sibling they listen to can help.
- Don't expect one talk to settle it. It may take a few tries. That is normal.
Once you know more, our guides to the stages of dementia and Alzheimer's vs. dementia can help you plan. When you're ready to look at care, start with our Fresno dementia care guide, or see free caregiver support in Fresno.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your parent's doctor about any concerns.
Updated September 2026 by Shaun and Nick, co-founders of CalValley Senior Living Advisors.