Lincolnshire residents with memory problems urged to seek advice

We can all forget things from time to time, for many people the pressures and stresses of life can mean that remembering every event or detail can be challenging. However, if you or somebody else notices that your memory is getting worse and/or is affecting everyday life, you should seek help from your GP.
A second case of monkeypox has been diagnosed in UK. Picture: PAA second case of monkeypox has been diagnosed in UK. Picture: PA
A second case of monkeypox has been diagnosed in UK. Picture: PA

Forgetting what you went upstairs for or being unable to put a name to a face of a celebrity you see on television is something that happens to everyone, irrespective of age.

Dr Stephen Baird, Chair for Lincolnshire East CCG, said: “We have all had that feeling of “it’s on the tip of my tongue” and most of the time small memory slips are not serious, although there is no doubt that many people find their memory becomes less reliable as they get older.

“However, if your memory is getting noticeably worse, or affecting everyday life, you should seek help as it may be a sign of a medical condition.”

There are many causes of memory loss, including depression, infections and vitamin and thyroid deficiencies. In addition, memory loss can also be an early sign of dementia, especially true if you:

• Struggle to remember recent events, although you can easily recall things from the past

• Find it hard to follow conversations or programmes on television

• Forget the names of close friends or everyday objects

• Struggle to recall things you have heard, seen or read recently

• Regularly lose the thread of what you are saying

• Find yourself putting objects in unusual places, such as your keys in the fridge

• Feel confused, even in familiar places, or get lost on familiar journeys

• Find that people are commenting on or noticing your memory loss

Dr Baird continued: “Forgetting things is not necessarily an indication of dementia, but it is worth seeing your GP if you are worried about your memory.

“It’s important that we understand the reason for the problems you are experiencing, which may then enable us to provide the appropriate treatment or resource.

“Sometimes it may be necessary to arrange for further investigation and you may be referred to a local memory clinic or hospital specialist for further assessment so you can get a diagnosis.

“If you are concerned about someone else, rather than yourself, you could start a conversation with them by asking gently if they have been feeling any different or are struggling with anything. It may be that it is worth booking an appointment for them with their GP, which you can attend too if they would like you to.”

For people concerned they may have dementia or those with a diagnosis of dementia, as well as their families, friends and carers, there is a wide range of information available, including the Alzheimer’s Society’s National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122.

Alternatively visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/memoryworry