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Something feels off

Initial Concern

Someone you care about is experiencing changes in their memory or thinking. They may be noticing it's harder to remember things, feeling less sharp than usual, finding routine tasks more challenging, or having trouble finding the right words in conversations. They may be feeling frustrated or worried about these changes and want to know what they mean.

What should we do next?

  • Trust their gut: They know themselves best. If they notice themselves feeling off, it’s important to get them checked out.
  • Talk to their clinician: If they have a primary care provider (PCP), schedule an appointment for them to discuss their brain health concerns. They can even ask for a cognitive evaluation. If they don't have a clinician, find one in their area (including those who accept Medicare) by using the BrainGuide’s “Find a Provider” tool.
  • Learn more about brain health: BrainGuide is an interactive questionnaire to assess brain health and offers personalized results and resources.
  • Tap into their support system: Noticing changes in one’s brain health may be scary. They should talk with someone they trust, such as yourself, about what they’re experiencing. If possible, they should bring someone along to their medical appointments for added support and practical help like asking questions and writing down information shared during the visit.

Bottom line: If something feels off with their mind or memory, contact a clinician early. This gives the best chance of getting the support and care they may need.

How do we know that something’s off, and what should we look out for?
What's causing these changes in their brain health?
The information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical judgment. Consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding Alzheimer's disease, related conditions, or any medical condition.
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