09/25/2026
Noticing changes in an aging parent’s memory, judgment, or behavior can be concerning—and it can be difficult to know what to do next.
Occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging. But when changes begin interfering with daily life, it may be time to pay closer attention.
Some signs that may warrant further evaluation include:
• Repeating the same questions or stories frequently
• Becoming confused about dates, places, or familiar routines
• Difficulty managing medications, finances, appointments, or other everyday responsibilities
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Noticeable changes in judgment, mood, or personality
• Increasing difficulty finding words or following conversations
• Withdrawing from activities they previously enjoyed
What can you do if you’re concerned?
Start with a calm, supportive conversation. Share specific changes you’ve noticed rather than immediately labeling them as dementia or memory loss.
Encourage your parent to schedule an appointment with their primary care physician. Memory changes can have many possible causes, and a medical evaluation can help determine whether additional assessment is appropriate.
If possible, keep notes about the changes you are observing—when they began, how frequently they occur, and whether they are affecting safety or everyday functioning. This information can be helpful to healthcare providers.
And remember that changes in a parent’s cognitive functioning affect more than the individual.
Adult children, spouses, and other caregivers may experience worry, sadness, frustration, role changes, family conflict, and the stress of balancing caregiving with their own responsibilities.
Support is available for the entire family.
At Main Line Therapy Solutions, we have clinicians who provide psychotherapy for older adults as well as to caregivers and family members navigating aging, memory changes, caregiving responsibilities, grief, family transitions, and more.
Having a supportive place to process these changes, strengthen communication, establish healthy boundaries, and develop coping strategies can help make an incredibly difficult situation feel more manageable.
If you or your family could benefit from additional support, contact Main Line Therapy Solutions to learn more about our experienced clinicians and therapy services. For more information, please contact 610-649-6344 or [email protected]. You can also visit our website: www.MainLineTherapySolutions.com
We accept most major insurance, including Medicare!