Patient Resources
When should memory loss be evaluated?
Short answer
Memory loss should be evaluated when it is getting worse over time, when family members notice it, or when it interferes with everyday tasks such as medications, finances, appointments, or driving. Earlier evaluation makes it easier to identify treatable causes.
Understanding this
Some memory change is expected with age — occasionally forgetting a name and recalling it later, or needing more time to learn something new. What deserves attention is a pattern of change: repeated questions, forgetting recent conversations entirely, or difficulty with tasks that used to be routine.
Many contributors to memory change are treatable, including thyroid abnormalities, vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, sleep apnea, depression, and vascular disease. An evaluation looks for these before concluding that a neurodegenerative condition is present.
Symptoms and signs
- Repeating questions or stories within a short period
- Forgetting recent conversations or appointments
- Increasing reliance on notes and reminders for familiar tasks
- Difficulty managing medications or finances
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Family members expressing concern
How it is evaluated
- Detailed history, ideally with a family member present
- Neurological examination
- Cognitive and memory testing
- Laboratory studies
- Brain imaging when appropriate
- Biomarker testing when clinically indicated
When to seek care
- Sudden confusion, new weakness, facial droop, or difficulty speaking is an emergency — call 911.
- Rapidly progressive confusion over days to weeks warrants prompt medical attention.
- Gradual, progressive memory change should be evaluated without waiting for it to worsen.
Emergency symptoms
Request a Neurology Appointment
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "Memory," or call 815-337-7100 to schedule. Our office will follow up to confirm your evaluation.
In-person visits and televisits (telehealth) are both available.
What happens after you text
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and a keyword. Our office calls you back to schedule — you do not need to fill out a form.
When you'll hear back
Texts and calls received during office hours are typically returned the same business day. You can also call 815-337-7100 directly.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. [Insurance details — placeholder]. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
Please do not send urgent or emergency medical information by text. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention. Please avoid sending sensitive medical information by ordinary SMS unless instructed otherwise.