When Forgetfulness Feels Worrying

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Practical ideas for managing memory lapses and easing anxiety

Everyone forgets things now and then — where they put their glasses, a name, or an appointment.

But as you get older, moments of forgetfulness can cause real concern about memory or health. Occasional lapses are often part of normal ageing, not necessarily a sign of illness.

Understanding what’s typical and taking small practical steps can help you feel calmer and more in control.

• Acknowledge your worries without panic

  • It’s natural to feel uneasy about memory changes, especially if you’ve seen others experience dementia. Try not to assume the worst. Many factors — tiredness, stress, medication, or distraction — can affect recall.

• Notice patterns in your forgetfulness

  • Keep a brief note of what you forget and when. Do lapses happen when you’re tired, anxious, or busy? Tracking patterns helps you spot triggers and discuss them clearly with your GP if needed.

• Keep organised in simple ways

  • Use calendars, reminders, and labelled containers to make daily life easier. Keeping regular places for essentials like keys and glasses reduces frustration. Visual or written cues support memory and lower stress.

• Keep your mind active and engaged

  • Mental exercise keeps your brain flexible. Reading, crosswords, learning, music, and conversation all help. Challenge your brain gently but regularly — it’s the repetition that makes a difference.

• Look after your body to support your mind

  • Good sleep, hydration, and balanced meals all aid memory. Regular movement improves circulation and energy, helping the brain stay sharp. Small lifestyle habits build overall mental resilience.

• Reduce multitasking and distractions

  • Memory lapses often happen when attention is divided. Try to do one thing at a time, especially for tasks that matter — writing lists, taking medication, or making calls. Focus helps recall.

• Share your concerns with someone you trust

  • If forgetfulness is worrying you, talk to family, friends, or your GP. Others may notice things you haven’t, and professional advice can offer reassurance or early support if needed.

• Keep perspective

  • Occasional forgetfulness is common at every age. If you can still manage daily life, conversations, and routines, lapses are likely within the normal range. Understanding this helps reduce unnecessary anxiety.

• Reflection questions

  • What situations make me most forgetful?

  • What small systems could help me stay organised?

  • Who could I talk to for reassurance or practical help?

• If memory problems worsen or affect daily life

  • If you frequently forget important events, repeat yourself often, or get confused about time or place, see your GP. They can rule out treatable causes such as stress, medication side effects, or vitamin deficiencies, and guide you toward appropriate help if needed.

• You’re not alone

  • Many people worry about memory as they age. With awareness, good self-care, and simple routines, forgetfulness can become manageable — allowing you to stay confident, capable, and calm in everyday life.

If you’d like to explore how professional support can help with emotional wellbeing in later life, click to visit the Counselling for Older People page.