Can medical attention help treat memory loss in a 75-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother is 75 years old and often shows some signs of memory loss. She resides with my younger brother. She forgets her daily tasks, including the door, kitchen, bathroom, and other family members also. But she remembers old things. Also, she often makes sounds during the night and while sleeping. She sleeps only for six hours. Does she require immediate medical attention by consulting a psychiatrist? Kindly give your advice.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for posting your query on this platform. From the information you have provided, it is possible that your mother has some sort of cognitive impairment or dementia. Having said that, she would need an in-person assessment, and relevant investigations to confirm or rule out memory issues as there might be other reasons as well for her presentation. A six-hour sleep at night is a good amount for her age. A face-to-face consultation would be more appropriate for further management.

Thank you.