Early Signs of Memory Loss

It is possible to identify the early signs of memory loss. Memory loss often increases slightly with age, although this generally does not prevent the individual from living a normal life. It may just take slightly longer to recall information or to take in information. Memory loss can also result from serious illnesses, such as meningitis, Alzheimer's disease, dementia and Parkinson's disease. Amnesia, a brain tumor and a stroke can also lead to memory loss.

Short-Term Memory Loss

• An early sign of possible memory loss is the affected individual's occasional inability to remember short-term information, according to MedicineNet.com. For instance, the person may be unable to remember what he ate for breakfast that morning. This short-term memory loss can become more severe over time.

Long-Term Memory Loss

• Another form of memory loss is long-term memory loss. During the early stages of memory loss, the affected individual may forget details of information from her long-term memory. This could mean occasionally forgetting the names of friends or relatives. Like short-term memory loss, long-term memory can also become more severe over time.

Confusion

• Confusion may be an early indicator of memory loss. Confusion can result from memory loss, which is preventing the individual from completing simple tasks. For instance, the person might leave the house and forget where he meant to go, or he may forget where he is and become disorientated.

Depression

• During the early stages of memory loss the individual may appear to be suffering from depression and may go through periods of irritability and apathy. The person may also appear to neglect personal hygiene. The Alzheimer's Research Trust website states that these symptoms may also be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease.