What Are Memory Disorders?

Forgetting things can be upsetting for people of any age. After all, your memories are an important part of who you are. While some changes in memory are natural as you get older, there are many other causes.

The severity of memory disorders varies widely. In some cases, memory loss is reversible. Anxiety and depression, thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies are some conditions that can cause temporary changes in memory. Memory loss can also be a symptom of other neurological conditions, such as a stroke or brain aneurysm.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) causes some changes in memory and thinking, beyond what happens during typical aging. It may remain stable or get worse over time. For some people, MCI is an early sign of dementia.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions that cause permanent damage to brain cells (neurodegenerative diseases). People with dementia experience a decline in their ability to think, remember and perform everyday activities.

Factors that may increase your risk of dementia include:

• Black or Hispanic race
• Family history of dementia
• Heart disease
• History of traumatic brain injury
• Older age